A NEW-LOOK junior school was opened in Hindley Green on Tuesday.

After three years of disruption, and work costing £597,000, the Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool (Rt Rev Vincent Malone) dedicated and formally opened a bigger Sacred Heart RC Primary.

The work was initiated as a result of a decision to keep the Swan Lane building and close its sister school on Crossdale Road.

This meant accommodating 245 pupils by adding two additional classrooms, a shared resource area, administration offices, new toilets, a bigger assembly hall and playground with extra parking facilities and better road access.

Headteacher Michael Caine said: "This marks the end of a three -year process comprising the amalgamation of two primary schools, split site education for infants and juniors, three moves, refurbishment and new building.

"The successful foundation of a new school is no easy task and the support of our parents and the guidance of the governing body had been essential.

"The real stars of course have been the children who have taken everything in their stride. Their confidence, happiness and enthusiasm for their new school reflects credit on their families, the parish community and the ethos created by the entire staff."

During the rededication service a commemorative plaque was unveiled and a souvenir booklet has been published.

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