Kingswood Parks Primary officially opens

Two months after the long awaited Kingswood Parks Primary School first opened its doors, staff, pupils and parents have gathered to celebrate its official opening this week.

Local families say they are thrilled to have the new academy just on their doorstep and Headteacher Carolyne Bellamy is equally as pleased with the community’s response to the new school. She said:

“Parents and local residents have been on a journey with us. They were part of the initial conversations when a new school was first discussed for the area, they’ve attended opening evenings and have always been keen to hear how the construction was progressing.”

“They’ve welcomed us into the Kingswood Parks community and this event is to thank them for their enthusiasm.”

The school marked the official opening with a plaque unveiling, an assembly and cake cutting.

“Most importantly we wanted the children to play a huge part in these celebrations today, as yes, we have this fantastic new building, but ultimately we’re celebrating their futures.”

The school welcomed admissions from all year groups over the Summer, as many families were keen for their children to attend the new school at the heart of their community.

Eve Lomax, parent of Dexter and Fallon, made the decision to transfer her children. She said:

“There is always a concern about taking your children out of a school in which they’re settled, but the Headteacher has been very visible and approachable from day one so that gave me a lot of confidence in the school.”

“The children were nervous when they moved across to Kingswood Parks, but they’ve settled in very well and I’m really pleased with their progress. The school is really pushing them to be the best that they can be.”

Ms Bellamy said her role was to ensure each child is encouraged and supported throughout their time at Kingswood, to give them the best start in life. She continued:

“My vision is for Kingswood Parks Primary School to be an outstanding school, and with the support of parents, the Local Authority and our  partners in the North Carr Collaborative Academy Trust I believe Kingswood Parks Primary School will be a fantastic place to learn and work.”

The academy is sponsored by Highlands Academy, which formed the North Carr Academies Trust. The sponsor inputted hugely into the development.

Jan Drinkall, Headteacher from the sponsoring school Highlands Academy, said:

“We have a tradition of very close partnership working within the North Carr area and we were keen for that to continue with Kingswood Parks Primary School. The school is magnificent and will undoubtedly set them on a great path to achievement.

The £4.8m 420 place school and 25 place nursery was developed by Hull Esteem Consortium and constructed by Sewell Group.

Jan continued:

“Our partners were fantastic and gave us confidence throughout the development, so much so that the school has appointed Sewell Group to facilities manage the building.”

Mark Boothby, Project Manager at Sewell Group, said:

“It’s great to see the school full of promising young children. We’re pleased to have delivered a facility that the local community can be really proud of.”