The first students are settling into new life at the brand-new Weldon Village Academy – a secondary school for Weldon and the surrounding areas.
Just over 100 Year 7 students will have the unique privilege of telling their future children and grandchildren that they were the first to be educated at Weldon Village Academy.
This marks the initial intake for the school, which is part of Meridian Trust, and it will continue to grow year by year until it reaches its full capacity of 1,500 students aged 11 to 18 in 2029.
Principal Matt Norris was present at the school entrance to extend a warm welcome to the children and their parents at the beginning of the term. Many parents took the opportunity to capture this momentous occasion by taking photos of their children as they embarked on their educational journey.
Mr Norris said: “This a brilliant day for the school and its community. We want Weldon Village Academy to be a warm, inclusive and happy school that is a great place for children to learn and for teachers to teach.
“I’m not shy in saying that I want this to be the best school in the country. The facilities we have here are second to none and all the tremendous hard work that has gone on over the summer to ensure the school is ready has to be applauded.”
Executive Principal, Sarah Wilson, added: “Weldon Village Academy opening marks the beginning of an incredible educational journey for our students. As we embark on this path of growth and excellence, we are committed to providing the best possible environment for our students to thrive academically and personally.”
On the first day, Mr Norris gave each of the five tutor groups a tour of the school. The building boasts three floors, including facilities for sports, science, technology, dance, and media.
He told students about ‘The Weldon Way’ the motto that will underpin school life. This being to Work hard; Empathise with others; Learn; Don’t give up; Our school is beautiful, and Never be unkind. He also encouraged students to embody the values of caring, curiosity, and commitment, collectively known as the 3 C’s.
Twins Jude and Sophia Kingsnorth are among the first intake.
Sophia said: “It’s really exciting to be here. Everything looks great and the uniform is very smart.”
Jude added: “I can’t wait to get started. I’m looking forward to PE lessons the most.”
Weldon Village Academy is the 13th secondary school in Meridian Trust, a successful multi-academy trust which includes The Ferrers School, Nene Park Academy, Greater Peterborough UTC and Stamford Welland Academy.
Applications for the second Year 7 intake for 2024/25 will open later this term. For further information on the school visit www.weldonva.org.
