THE FIRST school in Rugby’s new neighbourhood has opened its doors to pupils.
Houlton’s new primary school, St Gabriel’s Church of England Academy, welcomed its first 68 pupils – a third of whom live in the new suburb.
The school, the first of four planned for Houlton, is named after the patron saint of messengers in honour of the site’s heritage as a pioneer of radio communications since the 1920s.
Head teacher Andrew Taylor said: “We are delighted to be welcoming our first pupils, and are excited about the year ahead. It is humbling to be chosen by our families to provide education for their children.
“This is the start of our journey and we look forward to the growth of the school in the years to come and taking joy in our pupils flourishing in every way.”
The school is a joint venture between the site’s master developer Urban&Civic and the Diocese of Coventry, and is part of the Houlton Church of England Multi Academy Trust.
Johanne Thomas from Urban&Civic said: “The opening of St. Gabriel’s marks a pivotal point in Houlton’s development, and we’re proud to see another element of the development complete.”
The growing neighbourhood, which has already welcomed over 30 families, will feature 6,200 homes, two further primary schools, a secondary school and an eight-GP health centre when complete.
Visit www.stgabrielshoulton.org.uk for more information on St. Gabriel’s. Visit www.houltonrugby.co.uk for more on Houlton.
