A NEW school has opened its gates to the first intake of students.
William Perkin Church of England (CoE) High, in Oldfield Lane North, Greenford, welcomed year sevens to begin the term on Friday (September 6).
The Bishop of Willesden led pupils in a procession into the state of the art building, all carrying rainbow coloured flags of the seven houses named after a past inspirational scientist.
The Associate Headteacher, Keir Smith, then welcomed the youngsters who were dressed in their striking purple uniforms.
Mr Smith said: “This has been a most exciting project to lead. The building is superb and we were delighted that it has opened on time without a hitch. We are looking forward to inducting the first students into our systems and disciplines.”
Parents, governors and local headteachers joined the school in their first act of worship, having watched the new building emerge and transform at the North Greenford site.
William Perkin is a Specialist Science and Language college with a distinctively Christian identity, while having an open admissions policy and welcoming youngsters regardless of faith or background.
It will have an early start each morning with assembly at 8am and lessons starting at 8.30am.
The afternoons will be spent on Core and Extended Electives which will see students enjoying group tuition in clarinet and trumpet, studying robotics or engaging in science research projects designed by Imperial College.
The new school was oversubscribed, reflecting the popularity of the Twyford Trust’s sister school in Acton.
Executive Headteacher of Twyford CoE Academies Trust, Alice Hudson, said: “At William Perkin we aim to create a positive ethic of appreciation for all that the world offers and gratitude for our human capacity to do and be good.
“We will work to ensure that this ethic embraces all of our students, whatever their faith or background.”
Chair of Governors of William Perkin High, Reverend Christopher Ramsay, said: “The community in North Greenford have really brought this school into being. I am delighted that the diocese has been able to provide a Church of England school which serves their needs.”
