A headteacher planted a “good luck” branch to mark the building of his �24million school that was spared from nationwide cuts.

Simon Weaver buried the yew tree sprig – said to bring good fortune – at a topping out ceremony at Dagenham Park secondary in School Road last Friday.

The comprehensive being rebuilt under the Building Schools for the Future programme that was all but scrapped last July, is set to be complete in autumn 2012.

Mr Weaver said: “It is starting to look fantastic. I have hopes that it will be a world-class facility.”

He was joined by executives from building contractor Laing O’Rourke, which started revamping the school four months ago.

Laing’s general manager, Andrew Shepherd, said the build was using many 21st century cutting edge construction techniques.

“Computerised design and modelling and the manufacture of major structural components off site before delivery have contributed to guarantee the highest standards of construction and improve efficiency as well as helping reduce the project’s duration,” he said.