OVER 700 excited pupils have had their first lessons in a brand new school building, after a three-and-a-half year wait.
The purpose-built new premises of Rugby Free Secondary School, which was temporarily based at the former Rokeby Primary building since opening in 2016, opened its doors on Monday (February 24).
The CEO of the Learning Today Leading Tomorrow Trust which runs the school thanked older students and their parents for waiting patiently for the new Anderson Avenue building to be completed.
Brenda Mullen said: “The new building has been a long time coming and we are grateful to the Department for Education and building company BAM for providing such a wonderful resource for children in Rugby.
“Acting head teacher Samirah Roberts and her staff team have worked tirelessly over the half term holiday to get the school ready for the students to use.”
Year 10 student Sophie Hughes said she was excited to finally move in and be able to have more space.
She said: “I have been waiting for this building for three years now. From what I can see, I am confident I will be able to thrive in the subjects I am taking.
“The facilities at this new building are outstanding, for example the science labs are now really big and well organised.
“Also, I like that the building has separate areas for where we can study because it will enable me to get help from my peers.
“It was worth the wait!”
Miss Roberts said it was an exciting day for all students, staff and parents.
“We now have a superb range of state-of-the-art facilities that will ensure children have access to a broad and balanced curriculum.
“Importantly, as we have all our students under one roof for the first time, we are now in a position to grow together as a whole school body.”
Head of Year 7 Bethan Austen said: “We have been so excited at the prospect of moving into our new building, and for this day to finally arrive seems somewhat surreal!
“I am particularly looking forward to seeing all our students come together as a cohort and for us to move forward together.
“Is a great opportunity for us as teachers and support staff. It enables us to further develop the progress of our students and provide them with the educational experience they deserve.”
