First day in “fantastic” new building

Pupils and staff moved into their "fantastic" new school – and all agreed it was worth the wait.

Our school opened in September in temporary classrooms due to delays in its build.

Staff ensured the new building was ready in a busy two weeks over the half term holiday.

Principal Lindsay Holness was delighted to welcome children and parents.

"Our patience has been rewarded with this fantastic new building," she said.

"We had an excellent first half term but now children and staff can make the most of the wonderful resources this building offers."

Current parents and carers will have a chance to look around on Friday. Dozens of prospective parents have signed up to an open event being held next Tuesday, 11th November.

Andrew Clark, Executive Principal (Primary) at Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust, said: "We are pleased by the level of interest the new school is generating in the community. "It’s not just the fabulous learning environment we can offer at Waltham Gateway Academy, it’s also about an exciting curriculum delivered by a passionate, caring staff team."

Amy Aslett brought four-year-old daughter Sophia to the school for her first day.

"I came to look around at the beginning of October," she said. "The staff were brilliant. When I walked in, they were so welcoming and friendly.

"Everyone seems happy and content and keen to help the children thrive and reach their potential.

"It’s a much smaller school than elsewhere and they’ve created a lovely little community.

"The playground looks awesome and I think the children are very lucky with all the new facilities."

Thomas Smith and Rachel Jacombe were also new parents at the school, bringing children Bonnie and Bella, joining Years 2 and Reception respectively.

"The classrooms are fantastic," said Thomas.

"We live on Woodall Drive so the school’s much closer and easier for us as a family.

"The Trust which runs it has a good reputation, being also responsible for Waltham Toll Bar. We think the children will have a fantastic education here."

Rachel said: "The girls are very excited, and also a little nervous with it being their first day."

LGAT’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Brown thanked staff for their efforts over half term.

"They’ve created a vibrant learning environment which will benefit all the children," he said.

"Staff and children coped so well with the temporary classrooms and there has been no impact on pupils’ education.

"That experience makes the move to the new building even sweeter, with the additional resources it offers."

The open day on 11th November for prospective Reception parents will have three sessions at 10am, 11am and 5pm. To book, please call (01472) 502256, email enquiries@walthamgatewayacademy.co.uk or scan the QR code via the school’s Facebook page.

There are spaces in each year group and parents / carers should contact the academy if they are interested in their child joining.

Reception children and teaching staff are joined on the new building’s first day by Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust’s CEO Martin Brown (back right), Executive Principal Andrew Clark (back left) and Principal Lindsay Holness (right).