Wait over for Newman pupils

Photo: Anthony Miller

FIRST day: head teacher Mike McGhee is pictured greeting pupils Lydia and Jake Grayson and Siddartha Paul as Newman College opens.

IT was worth the wait for Newman College pupils who finally started at their new school this morning.

The £33.8 million Roman Catholic secondary opened in Broadway, Chadderton — 10 days later than expected because of building delays.

A chapel and a covered courtyard are at the heart of the stunning building which also has a sixth form.

Years 7 and 11 pupils were the first to start today and will be joined by other years tomorrow.

Head teacher Mike McGhee said: “It was a great pleasure to welcome visitors, and the occasional parent and pupil requiring uniforms, to our wonderful building last week.

“Everyone we have met has been overwhelmed and awe-struck by the facilities we now have.

“All the children will undoubtedly feel the same way. It’s a very exciting time and we are totally blessed with a beautiful new school.”

Newman College replaced Our Lady’s, Royton, and St Augustine’s, Werneth, in September, 2011, with pupils initially taught on the existing sites.

The new school is the third to open in Oldham in a week, following Oasis Academy Oldham, Hollins, and the rebuilt North Chadderton School last Monday.

They are the borough’s first new secondaries since Failsworth and Radclyffe in 2008.


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