A Bermondsey secondary school has celebrated the official opening of its new state-of-the-art school building.
Students, teachers and local figures gathered at The Charter School Bermondsey to inaugurate the facility on Wednesday, January 31.
The new building offers fully equipped science and computer labs, extensive sports facilities, a well-stocked library and teaching spaces for Drama, Art and Food Technology.
Sonita Alleyne OBE, a businesswoman and entrepreneur who did the honours, said: “It is truly a privilege to be invited to open this school. I would have loved to have been a student here…it is one of the best things I have ever done.”
The first female Master of Jesus College Cambridge since its foundation in 1496, she spoke glowingly of the students she’d met and the teaching on offer.
She was joined by other visitors including members of the Department of Education and the London Borough of Southwark.
There were also representatives of livery companies who have supported the school, including the Worshipful Companies of Pewterers, Curriers, Gardeners and Pattenmakers.
Guests had the opportunity to explore the brand-new facility and meet staff and students in their lessons.
Principal Marcus Huntley said: “We are thrilled to finally realise our vision for a contemporary learning environment. Our new building embodies our commitment to delivering high-quality education, fostering creativity and nurturing the holistic growth of our students.
“We will use this as a platform to soar to even greater heights, just as we now soar over Bermondsey, seeing the spire of St James’, Tower Bridge, the Shard, St Paul’s, Canary Wharf, and our extraordinary city.”