HRH The Duke Of Kent officially opens new Moreland Primary School

Pupils at Moreland Primary School and Children’s Centre got a royal surprise last week when HRH The Duke Of Kent dropped in to officially open their new building.

The school, next to the King’s Square Estate in Bunhill ward, has undergone a £13million transformation, and will eventually accommodate 420 pupils.

The Duke Of Kent unveiled a plaque marking the occasion at a special assembly attended by the Mayor of Islington Cllr Una O’Halloran, leader of the council Cllr Richard Watts, and executive member for children, young people and families Cllr Joe Caluori.

The school now provides bright classrooms with numerous group rooms, a vast hall and dance studio, a multi-use games area and extensive, landscaped grounds outside.

The building, which has been shortlisted for a number of architecture and design awards, also houses the well-established Bright Start Children's Centre, which boasts lovely new outdoor play facilities.

The school’s transformation began in 2011 when Ann Dwulit, the executive headteacher who also runs St Luke’s CE Primary School, took over with a mission to improve it at every level.

Ofsted’s last inspection found the school was good, providing outstanding personal development, welfare and behaviour.

Mrs Dwulit said: “We invited His Royal Highness The Duke Of Kent to officially open Moreland because we have been on a unique journey which warrants royal recognition, and we were very honoured by his presence.

“We are extremely grateful for the faith council officers and councillors showed in the federation governors, the leadership and the staff team, for sharing our vision and delivering a first-class building.”

David Forsdick QC, the school’s chair of governors, added: “Today is a celebration of the wonderful children of Moreland – enthusiastic, engaged, and hardworking, with great behaviour and high aspirations.

"They are the reason we embarked on the journey a few years ago and I have complete confidence that they will take the chances offered by Moreland and grow into the teachers, the builders, the councillors, the plumbers, the architects of the future.”

Cllr Joe Caluori, Islington Council’s executive member for children, young people and families, said: “The new Moreland School and Children’s Centre development is truly amazing and will be a huge asset for the local community.

"The design is fantastic – the way that outside space always feels so close to the classrooms will have a positive impact on teaching and learning. Generations of kids will benefit as Moreland School continues to thrive in this new building.”