A POPULAR former headteacher has spoken of her pride after learning a new science block will be named in her honour.
Plume Academy, in Maldon, will name the building after Sarah Dignasse, who taught science and ran the school for more than a decade.
The school's £14.8 million expansion includes a science building, sports centre and outdoor courts.
Miss Dignasse worked at Plume from 1990 to 2009 and became its first female headteacher in 1997.
Ahead of the building’s official opening on October 5, she told the Standard: "It is a real honour to have a building named after me.
"I am incredibly proud to have my name connected with a department that, for me, delivered the best bits of the curriculum when I was at school."
After studying science A-levels and completing a microbiology degree, Miss Dignasse considered a career in science before finding her passion for teaching.
She said: "Teachers should be judged by the students they produce, and this is what I loved about being in the classroom."
Former Plume pupils have gone on to become doctors, engineers, analytical chemists and medical researchers, while one has advised governments on climate change policy.
Academy leaders said Miss Dignasse’s lasting influence on the school and wider community made her the obvious choice for the building’s name.
Joint headteacher Tom Baster previously told the Standard: "She remains part of the fabric of the school."
Fellow joint head Ruth Clark called her "absolutely remarkable" and praised her continued support for families, pupils and organisations.
"Heads come and go, but I certainly think the impact she continues to have on the community is significant," she added.
At the opening ceremony, Miss Dignasse is expected to champion science education, telling guests: "Science is amazing.
"Through science, we learn to build a better future."
She will also highlight science’s role in tackling climate change and advancing medicine, adding that despite artificial intelligence, "the future is going to need scientists".
Miss Dignasse hopes generations of pupils will value the opportunities the new building provides.
Although the block will officially open on October 5, pupils will not begin using it until after the October half-term break.
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