THE first pupils to enter The Deanery CE Academy at Wichelstowe were welcomed by the new principal when they dropped by for a look at the construction work.

It is due to open in September next year, but a series of educational visits from local primary schools was organised to give the children a first-hand look at engineering work.

Miss Linda Culling, who will take charge when the school is up and running, said: “The Swindon region is known for its excellence in science and technology and we hope that today’s visits to see construction in action will have inspired the next generation of scientists and engineers.”

With the help of BAM Construction children from South Marston, Ridgeway Farm, Lydiard Millicent and Tadpole Farm primary schools saw windows fitted using a robot, heavy steels lifted using a crane and laser technology being used to level the playing fields.

They also got the opportunity to sign their names and leave good luck messages on the steel frame,

The primary schools who visited are all part of the Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust and the Deanery is the newest member. It will open for up to 210 year seven children at first and build year by year to accommodate 1,400 pupils up to year 13.