Scartho Gateway Academy and Waltham Gateway Academy are the result of more than two years’ planning.
The Scartho Top school, adjacent to the Aldi superstore, opened in its permanent building.
Pupils at Waltham, on Sunningdale, will begin their new school in temporary accommodation, switching to their new build at October half term.
North East Lincolnshire Council has overseen construction of both and the schools will be run by Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust.
Its Executive Principal (Primary) Andrew Clark has spearheaded the Trust’s involvement from day one.
“The openings mark the culmination of an enormous amount of work from a team of dedicated people,” he said.
“It has actually been quite emotional seeing the children and their families walk into the new schools.
“Only 12 months ago, they were plans and now we have opened the Trust’s 10th and 11th academies.
“We have appointed two terrific Principals in Mel Portlock at Scartho and Lindsay Holness at Waltham.
“They have been relentless over the past few months since being appointed in ensuring the children who come to these schools will have exciting, enriching curriculums taught by first class teaching teams.”
Mel and Lindsay were delighted to welcome children and their parents and carers.
“We could not wait to see the children arrive today,” said Mel. “They all looked very smart in their new uniform.
“They settled into their new environment really quickly and we are delighted how well the first day has gone.
“My team have been brilliant.”
Lindsay, like Mel, was on the gate to greet every child and parent.
“It’s been incredible,” she said. “All the children have come in happy and settled quickly.
“Parents were reassured as soon as they saw the quality of the temporary classrooms.
“I am so proud of the whole staff team, and the dedication and work ethic they have shown to get us to this point.”
The first to arrive at Scartho was seven-year-old Ollie, who was dropped off for breakfast club, which starts at 7.30am.
After tucking into a bowl of cereal, he said: “It’s all good. I like the uniform.”
Joining him at breakfast club was Lyla, who will join Year 4.
“This is amazing and I am so excited to meet new friends,” she said.
Six-year-old Edie walked into the Scartho school with her friend Sofia.
“I am excited because it is a new school,” said Edie.
Her mum Emily also brought Oakley (4) and Noah (8) to the new school.
“It’s gone well,” she said.
Sofia’s grandma Janette enjoyed the first morning.
“I think it’s going to be a really good school,” she said.
“It’s a nice community around here and I hope the school will be central to it. I think it is needed,” she said.
“It feels nice and friendly with the teachers out to greet the children. It’s a big step for Sofia and I hope she settles well. The uniform is lovely and very smart.”
LGAT’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Brown thanked the council for its partnership approach.
“It has been a complex and, at times, challenging project for everyone involved but today makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
“I would like to pay tribute to Andy Clark and the many Trust colleagues who have driven this project forward to ensure we open both academies on schedule today.
“We’re grateful to council officers for their approach and support. The result of all the hard work are two academies that I know will be at the heart of their communities in Waltham and Scartho.”
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for children and education, sent her best wishes to the staff and pupils at both schools ahead of the first day.
She said: “It’s marvellous to see these schools open and students at both sites starting their journeys, learning new things and developing new relationships with teachers and other pupils.
“This really is a day that they’ll remember for a long time, as will we.
“I’d like to wish the staff and students all the best as they start their new school.
“I’ve been really impressed with the new buildings and know that the children will not just enjoy their time there but will thrive.”
The schools are the first to be built in North East Lincolnshire in decades, offering much-needed places for children aged four to 11.
The sites have capacity for 210 children each, plus specialist provision for 12 students with special educational needs and disabilities
Photo credit – Jon Corken
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