“A momentous occasion”: The Glenvale Church of England Primary School officially opened

The Glenvale Church of England Primary School was officially opened by the Rt Reverend Debbie Sellin in a joyful celebration at the end of the school term.

Pupils first moved into the building at the start of the school year when Wilby CEVA Primary School closed its doors for the final time and relocated to the purpose-built site on the Glenvale Park development.

Since then, children have access to more playing areas, spacious and up-to-date learning environments and facilities like the new school hall and library.

Louise Bilkhu, Headteacher at The Glenvale School, said: "We were really proud to call our old school building in Wilby our home. The school had been there for 150 years, and generations of children had learnt there.

“However, our new school building has given us the ability to reimagine and reinvigorate all that we do. It is a beautiful space – and watching our children grow and flourish in it is an absolute privilege. It is a space that they deserve.”

Bishop Debbie cut the ribbon to officially open the new building in front of pupils, parents, staff and representatives from the Glenvale and Church of England community. This included Mark Best, Director of Midtown Capital Ltd, Managing Partner of Glenvale Park LLP (the site’s master developer) and Peter Cantley, the Director of Education for the Diocese of Peterborough.

The celebration also included the official opening of The Dudley Library, named in honour of former Chair of Governors, Lynette Dudley, whose tireless dedication was instrumental in securing the school’s new home.

Bringing this project to life required many years of planning, council meetings and collaboration – but the smiles on the children’s faces as they explored their new surroundings showed it was all worthwhile.

As was shared in the celebration, a school is so much more than bricks and mortar. Glenvale will be an anchor for its community and a flagship school for the future. The opening of Glenvale is truly a momentous occasion and we are proud to have it as part of our trust.