Academy officially opened by the Archbishop of York

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The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, Connor Russell and the Bishop of Middleton, the Right Revd Mark Davies

The brand new St Anne’s Academy was officially opened by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu today (Thursday 10 March 2011).

The academy on Hollin Lane was part of the Building Schools for the Future programme.
The school has been completely remodelled and is home to 900 students and a host of specialist facilities.

The pupils, along with their new Principal Caroline Preece, moved into their new state of the art building in September.

Now the finishing touches have been completed the pupils, staff and special guests marked the official opening with an array of activities.

Pupils from years 7, 8 and 9 joined in a worship event in the school hall which was also attended by the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali, Middleton and Heywood MP, Jim Dobbin and the Bishop of Middleton, The Right Revd Mark Davies.

After the celebration event, which included prayers and vibrant singing there was a ribbon cutting ceremony. The ribbon was cut by year 7 pupil Connor Russell who stood alongside Archbishop Sentamu and Bishop Davies.

The chair of governors, Cannon Nicholas Feist said the day was a “great day of celebration for St Anne’s Academy.”

Cannon Feist added: “This is a marvellous new beginning in this outstanding building.”

The academy’s principal, Caroline Preece told the students she wanted them to enjoy themselves and have fun, adding: “This is your event.”

The Academy, which began life in 2007, is sponsored by The Church of England Diocese of Manchester and Ann and David Crossland.