Mary Hare celebrates official opening of new primary school

Mary Hare School has officially opened its new primary school, with a special celebration.

On Thursday, April 27 more than 120 guests, among them supporters of the project, witnessed a joyful musical performance by pupils of the school for deaf children, who enthralled audiences with their playing of the keyboard, drums and various percussion instruments.

There were many people to be thanked for their support in making the project a success, including the Mary Hare Foundation, which raised £4 million in total.

Key speakers included chair of the Mary Hare Foundation Harriet McCalmont, chair of governors Andrew Strivens and principal of Mary Hare School, Robin Askew. Each shared stories of their many years working on this project and the impact the new school has already made since it welcomed its first pupils in September 2022.

Visitors also heard speeches from current pupils who featured in the original campaign launch of the primary school back in 2017. They shared how their time at Mary Hare has been pivotal in their academic success.

And then a small musical band of Year 8 pupils entertained audiences with a selection of songs by George Ezra and Bob Marley. The school was then officially opened by recently retired principal, Peter Gale, who did so by unveiling a commemorative plaque.

Mr Gale shared his joy in opening the new school and the importance of its state-of-the-art facilities in offering a truly inclusive educational setting for the school’s youngest deaf pupils for many years to come.

“It was a great honour to be asked back to officially open Mary Hare Primary School,” said Mr Gale. “Whilst I was principal and CEO throughout the project, this really was the ultimate team effort and I am grateful to donors and our Foundation, governors, staff and all of our professional partners.”

He added: “This school is needed and I do hope that local authorities will see that early specialism can be transformational in the outcomes for deaf children.”

Mr Askew also shared his thoughts on the opening saying: “The event was a fantastic way to celebrate our new primary school and we are thrilled to be able to mark the occasion with those who have supported us.

“This is an exciting chapter for Mary Hare School and I look forward to many more years welcoming new families to the school.”