A CELEBRATION has been held marking the final stage in the construction of a new £25m school in Swindon.

The Deanery CE Academy at Wichelstowe had a ‘last bolt’ ceremony to mark a major step towards its completion

New principal Linda Culling said: “The opening of the the school is especially exciting and significant for Swindon, as it offers the only dedicated Church of England secondary provision in the town and surrounding area.

“The innovative and challenging curriculum will nurture confident, secure, imaginative and selfless students.

“At the same time, the school will become the heart of the new community of Wichelstowe with regular events and the hire of sports facilities.”

The Deanery CE Academy is the newest member of the Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust, which was established in 2012.

The trust has the aim of supporting schools within the diocese that want greater independence, operational innovation, consistent improvement and cost savings through economies of scale.

The trust has 11 schools across the region, with more planning to join.

According to the trust, it will blend a “rigorous academic programme with outstanding opportunities in sports, leadership, and the creative and performing arts”. Miss Culling said: “With outstanding staff and world class facilities, we will offer a distinctive and unique educational experience - one where we focus on ethos as well as excellence.

“Our school will be a place of hope, where we treat students as whole people and place equal worth on values, skills and a sense of self.

“We will grow leaders amongst our students and staff.”

The school is due to open in September, 2019.

It will feature national-standard sporting, creative arts and educational facilities and will have 1,400 pupils from Year 7 to Year 13.