A Sutton school has paid a moving tribute to its founder by naming a newly-refurbished building after her.

Janice Rankin founded The Shrubbery, Sutton’s oldest independent school, in 1930, in the Walmley home where she lived with her family.

And last week Sutton MP Andrew Mitchell officially opened the refurbished building – now called Rankin House – cheered on by the entire school.

Mr Mitchell said:

“Miss Rankin was a true educational pioneer and much-loved by the pupils she taught over many decades.

“It was a privilege to open Rankin House and to see how the school she created nearly a century ago is thriving in the 21st century.”

Miss Rankin, who died in 1997 had only one pupil when the school first opened, a little girl called Eileen King, teaching her in a single classroom in the now listed house.

Headteacher Amanda Lees said:

“We are really grateful to Mr Mitchell for coming along and helping us celebrate Miss Rankin’s achievements, and the children really enjoyed learning about how she created their school.”

Shrubbery CEO Craig Johnson said: “It was great to see Rankin House opened – the refurbishments include everything from a new reception area and security system to wood panelling that celebrates the heritage of this historic building.

“However, Rankin House is just the start of exciting investment in The Shrubbery as the school prepares for its second century of educating local youngsters.”