Pupils celebrate refurbished school

Dozens attended opening ceremony of Bradfield Primary School's first phase of project

CHILDREN at Bradfield Primary School have celebrated the opening of phase two of the refurbishment of their school.

More than 150 people, including children, parents, governors, members of the local community and invited guests, attended an opening ceremony at the school in Cock Lane on Monday, December 19, which coincided with the annual Carols Around the Tree event, organised by the Parent Teacher Association.

The ceremony marked the opening of the new secure entrance, admin offices and classroom as part of the second phase of the Primary Project, with headteacher Andy How (pictured) and the chairman of governors, John Bishop, unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

The priest-in-charge of Bradfield, the Rev. Julian Gadsby, also said a prayer and a blessing at the event.

The first phase of the project, including a new hall, kitchen, library and classrooms, opened in January.

Mr How said: “We have had a wonderful new hall, offices, room for a secure new entrance and rooms for small groups.

“Effectively, we have brought an old and rather cramped school into the 21st century and it has been transformed into a really extensive and wonderful building.”

Mr How added that it was great to involve the community in the event, who he said had offered fantastic support for the project, raising about £250,000 over two years to help towards the overall cost of the project, which topped £1m.

He said: “It certainly was a great occasion for the school.”