Browse Images (1 / 1)

Official Opening of the Academy

His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent KG officially opened The Milton Keynes Academy on November 17.

The Duke described the Academy as "most impressive" and said it was a place of learning that should have a hugely beneficial impact on young lives.

Talented year 7 student Taylor Driver performed a song she had written about the Academy to guests, and food technology students presented The Duke with a basket of chocolates they had made.

The Duke toured the building and saw students at work in lessons including dance, science, and design and technology. He also watched Year 11 students putting the finishing touches on dishes created for his lunch.

The official opening ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries including Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, The Lord-Lieutenant for Buckinghamshire; Allan Westry, the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire and Cllr Euan Henderson and Cllr Irene Henderson, the Mayor and Mayoress of Milton Keynes.

A speech was made by Sir Garry Hawkes, President of the independent education foundation Edge, the sponsor of the Academy.

Sir Garry said: "The opening of this fantastic new Academy is a manifestation of my own passionate belief that all young people should have the chance to pursue many paths to success - including high quality vocational courses.  The Academy represents not just a new building, which is itself important for the whole community, but a change in the way young people learn. At Milton Keynes Academy, young people are and will be positively encouraged to find new ways of learning, which engages them in practical and vocational learning."

Academy principal Lorna Caldicott said: "This is a wonderful day for us. The students are extremely proud of their new school and have been very excited about showing it to our special guests.

"The Academy is an inspiring brilliantly-equipped school where students will be given the skills and qualifications to fulfill their dreams and ambitions in life. "