THE Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, officially opened Barnoldswick C of E Primary School last Wednesday (Oct 8).

The Archbishop toured the new school and joined in the morning assembly before officially cutting the ribbon and blessing the school building.

“The church has a heritage of involvement in education that goes back from 1811 when the National Society was founded," said Dr Sentamu. "It is brilliant to see that care for children being given fresh expression in our generation through these new facilities.

"I pray that every child who comes here will discover more of all that God has created them to be and to do."

Headteacher Michelle Dodgson said: “It is fantastic that the Archbishop joined us for the official opening of our brand new purpose-built school.

"It was a very successful visit ," she added. "He was very impressed with our school, the pupils and the Christian ethos and values.

"He went in every classroom, met all of the children, looked at their work and spoke with the teachers."

After the Archbishop and several other dignitaries were shown around the new classrooms, they gathered in the hall for refreshments, cakes and a performance by the school choir.

Councillor Kevin Ellard, chairman of Lancashire County Council, also addressed staff, pupils and friends of the school about the building project before the Archbishop officially opened the building.

"We felt very privileged that the Archbishop opened our school," said Ms Dodgson. "All the staff have worked incredibly hard to ensure that the new facilities were up and running for the start of the school term."

It was Dr Sentamu's second visit to Barnoldswick in the less than year.

He also met with Barnoldswick C of E pupils last December when he blessed a foundation stone for the new school building.