The Princess Royal officially opens Paddington Academy
20 March 2009
The Princess Royal was guest of honour yesterday at a special ceremony held to mark the official opening of Paddington Academy’s building.
Academy Principal (Acting) Oli Tomlinson gave the Princess a guided tour of the new state-of-the-art building where she visited science, catering, humanities and dance lessons.
After the tour, students gave dance and drama performances in the academy’s theatre. The Princess then unveiled a plaque commemorating the event.
Representatives from GamesAid, the video games industry based charity that supports the academy financially, also met the Princess and students.
Facilities in the building include specialist ICT teaching spaces fully equipped with the latest technology as well as recording and TV studios and a studio theatre to support the academy’s media and performing arts specialism.
Commenting on the opening of the new building, Oli Tomlinson said: "It was an honour to have this special occasion marked by the Princess Royal. Students were delighted to perform for her, and we all enjoyed showing her some of the wonderful activities taking place here."
Sir Ewan Harper, Chief Executive of ULT, said: “It has been a great privilege and honour that the Princess Royal has opened a second academy for us. Today the Princess Royal has seen how the academy brings to life the hope and joy that education can engender in young people. At Paddington Academy local students and staff have worked together to create a dynamic and close-knit community which students love being a part of. It is this sense of belonging together with a focus on learning and achievement which have led to a successful start for the academy.”
Paddington Academy opened in 2006 and transferred into its new building a year later. It was the country’s most improved academy in 2008.
