Berwick Academy has officially opened its doors to Year 7 and Year 8 pupils for the first time in its history today.

This is part of the county council-approved reorganising of the education system in the Berwick Partnership from three-tier to two-tier.

The school’s transformation into a comprehensive 11-18 provider has seen it welcome hundreds of younger students to its campus to begin their secondary education journey.

The landmark changes are backed by a refreshed senior leadership team.

Headteacher Kelly Holbrook, who joined the school at Easter, is now joined by two newly appointed deputy headteachers, Nicola Holmes and Leanne Watson, to drive the next phase of school improvement.

Roy Jobson, chair of trustees at Berwick Academy, said: “The start of a new school year always brings anticipation, excitement, nervousness and challenges, but in Berwick Academy’s case these feelings are even more highlighted because of the huge changes taking place.

“The move from a three-tier to a two-tier system is a big occasion for all pupils and our staff team has worked tirelessly to prepare for both the educational and welfare needs of our young people.

“Changing job and work location is never easy and our teachers have stepped up brilliantly to the challenge of a widened curriculum and expanded age range.

“With Kelly Holbrook at the helm alongside our new deputy headteachers, the trust is also reviewing its own work to ensure we properly challenge and support the school. Our trustees are committed volunteers focused on developing policies and analysing performance to bring about strong standards of education.

“All of us, including parents, must hold high expectations for what our young people can achieve.

“Involving parents and the community in the work of the school is a top priority, as we all want the absolute best for the young people in the Berwick area.”

The transition also welcomes many teachers into new roles, adapting to a widened curriculum and differing styles of learning and teaching across an expanded age range.

Mrs Holbrook said: “Welcoming our first Year 7 and Year 8 cohorts brings fantastic new energy to our site.

“Transitioning to a full 11-18 school allows us to build long-term, uninterrupted educational pathways for our students from their very first day of secondary school right through to Sixth Form.

“We are thrilled to finally have them here with us today and we are looking forward to watching them flourish.”