The Hex is officially opened

A pioneering former student has opened Priory’s new £1.4m purpose-built ICT & Computer Science building.

The new facility, named ‘The Hex’, was officially opened by Dr Claire Burke who has won awards for her work using heat seeking drones to differentiate and track rare and endangered species.

The astro-ecologist attended Priory from 1998-2003 and returned to the school to open the new ICT innovation centre, which has been built on the old ROSLA building.

“It’s a privilege to be here, it’s 16 years since I came here and I loved my time at Priory and was grateful for the education and support I received here,” said Claire.

“When I was at Priory I did history and RE in the ROSLA block and it was old then so it’s great to see the transformation at Priory over the years. It’s hardly recognisable from when I was here.

“The HEX block is an impressive facility for the students. I studied ICT and computing to A-Level standard and computers are everywhere nowadays. I have to write programmes myself or work with software engineers to solve problems and we know they are vital, whether you are interested in science, art or history.”

Headteacher Matt Eastham said: “It was great to have Claire here, she has had a wonderful career and we are so proud she has opened our new building.

“The Hex block is a fantastic facility which has been completely transformed from the old ROSLA block. It’s an important facility for pupils at Priory and our partner primary schools to access and benefit from. It’s another step forward for Priory.”

Pupils from feeder primary schools with a gift or an interest in ICT were invited to spend a day in the new building to take part in various computer science challenges.  

At the end of the day, parents joined the young children as they were presented with certificates and awards for their attendance and efforts, knowing that they had the honour of being the very first pupils to use the facilities.

The Hex’s official opening ceremony followed, attended by staff, governors, councillors and contractors that worked on the building. Year 7 pupils assisted Mrs Cowell to produce mouth-watering canapés and provide impeccable hospitality.

Head of Computer Science, Mrs Qadri said: “There are 32 computers in three classrooms and they are excellent facilities for our students. It will help them enjoy their learning even more.”

Nobel Construction’s Andy Doyle said: “There are solar panels on the roof so as well as being about education, it’s built for energy recovery as well as energy saving.”

Thank you to pupils that supported the day:
ICT Support - Faith T, Connor S, Alfie D, Ruby E, Numair A, Freddie S and Matthew H.

Catering & Hospitality Support - Josh T, Stephen P-N, Sara T, Chloe Q, Elilnila A, Katie R-K, Kelsie K, Harrision F, Uzair B,  Freya B, Aimee W.