A NEW era for Dormers Wells High School began this week with the opening of a £30million building and grounds.
Students, staff and governors at the Southall school were joined by economist and BBC broadcaster Evan Davis, along with local politicians in celebrating the official opening of their new school building and grounds on Monday (24).
The project is part of Ealing Council’s Building Schools for the Future programme, which eventually closed.
Work began in February 2011 and students have been using the completed building since September last year.
The official opening celebrated the completion of the building with sports facilities and looked back on the fight to build the school after the BSF programme was cancelled.
The opening was conducted by Mr Davis, presenter for TV show The Dragon’s Den, who gave a speech before unveiling a plaque that will be permanently displayed in the school’s reception.
He said: “Today is about this amazing new building, but it’s a day to also celebrate the school, by which I mean the students, staff and teachers.
“Your new building is here as a sign of confidence your future. The builders and architects have done their job, but the rest is down to you and I wish you luck in that.”
Alongside added facilities for students, the building also houses business suites available for the local community to hire as well asthe borough’s only hearing impaired unit for secondary school pupils.
Head teacher Maggy Aylott said: “We are delighted by our light and airy new building which has wonderful teaching areas. The overall feel and quality of the building is more like a university, which is proving to be an inspiration to our students.’
Councillor Jasbir Anand, Ealing leader for children and young people, added: “I am delighted that the students and staff of Dormers Wells High School are able to work and study in such a bright and inviting environment.
“All children deserve a decent education and we are continuing to invest in our buildings, expanding schools where necessary, to make sure they all our children get the opportunity to attend a good, fit-for-purpose school.”
