Archbishop chalks up new academy

Dr John Sentamu opened the academy wearing one of the school's blazers.

The Archbishop of York has gone back to school - donning the uniform of an academy bearing his name.

Dr John Sentamu officially opened the Archbishop Sentamu Academy in East Hull saying his dream had become a reality as he toured the Hopewell Road site.

He told the students his prayer was that all of them would "have the courage to have dreams that will transform your lives".

It is one of six Church of England academies to open in the UK this term.

A further 14 have been agreed with another 40 under discussion.

'Name linked'

Dr Sentamu said: "This will be more than just a school."

"Its students will come from the locality and show that what they can do for their neighbourhood is at least as important as what they can do for themselves.

"As the 97th Archbishop of York, I am proud to have my name linked to this academy.

"I strongly believe in its vision to aspire, serve and achieve. I pray that this academy will transform the lives of those who study and work here and will play its part in the great development of education to which the city of Hull is so committed."

Academy principal Andrew Chubb said: "I believe that the academy will have a profound impact, not just on the lives of the young people who attend it, but also on their families.

"We are at the heart of the local community, and want the whole community to benefit from the wonderful resources it will offer over the coming years."

The city's Building Schools for the Future project director David Martin said he was "absolutely delighted" to see the opening of the academy.