Praise for borough’s latest landmark school
December 5, 2011 No Comments
Bridgend County Borough’s latest landmark school has been officially opened today.
Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School has been open to its 750 pupils since September but today a special ceremony attended by officials and dignitaries including the First Minister Carwyn Jones, the Archbishop of Cardiff, Most Reverend George Stack, the Leader of BCBC Councillor Mel Nott and representatives of those who have completed the project, was held to celebrate the impressive new building.
Funding for the £20m new school has been provided by the Welsh Government, the Archdiocese of Cardiff and Bridgend County Borough Council.
Its relocation to Brackla means its former site in Tondu can now be redeveloped for another world-class new school, Coleg Cymunedol Y Dderwen.
Councillor Alana Davies, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Here at Archbishop McGrath we have a wonderful educational facility for the students and an excellent resource for the wider community as we are also able to offer the sports facilities for use outside of school hours.”
Council Leader Mel Nott, said: “Not only is this a very attractive building, it’s also very efficient and I know a great deal of work and planning has gone into its design.
“I hope the students will be really inspired by their new school.”
The new three-storey school features fully equipped class rooms, science labs, music suites, an all-weather pitch and multi-use games areas
A large entrance hall doubles as an amphitheatre-style drama area with seating provided by a specially designed staircase, and the school will incorporate community sports facilities and changing rooms.
Rev Dr Philip Manghan, Headteacher, said: “All those involved in the design and build of the new school have been outstanding in their artistry and craftsmanship. Pupils and staff played a significant part in the development of the building. The key at all times has been the desire to design and construct a building that enhances the experience and quality of learning for the learner.”
The building is especially environmentally friendly and has achieved a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) ‘Excellent’ rating by using high levels of insulation, recyclable materials, solar hot water heaters and high efficiency boilers. It also harvests rainwater for flushing toilets.
It offers around 8,500 square metres of space, including informal learning spaces and areas for use by the community, all laid out over an 8.11 hectare site.
Its sports facilities for use by the school and the local community, include an all-weather pitch, multi-use games areas, hard play areas and grass pitches to the local area.
Latest
