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West Lakes Academy
Representatives of Sellafield Ltd joined fellow sponsors and other invited guests at the formal opening of the West Lakes Academy in Egremont on Friday.
The Academy, which replaces the town’s Wyndham School and Cleator Moor’s Ehenside School, opened its doors to students in September but Friday marked its formal launch.
The other sponsors, along with Sellafield Ltd, are the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and the University of Central Lancashire.
Principal and Chief Executive Barrie Cooper welcomed a range of guests, including Cllr. Keith Hitchen, Mayor of Copeland, and Copeland MP Jamie Reed.
The formal opening featured speeches from Mr Reed and Academy representatives plus musical performances and readings from students.
Coun. Hitchen then presented six Student of the Year awards.
After the formal launch, parents and members of the community were invited in to view students’ work and comment on a range of design ideas that will help shape the Academy when a new building replaces the existing structure in 2011.
They also enjoyed refreshments prepared by students under the guidance of local chef Ricky Andalcio, from Zest in Whitehaven, who gave a cookery demonstration assisted by the youngsters.
The evening concluded with a fireworks display.
John Reynolds, Sellafield Ltd’s Head of Media Relations, said: “It was a tremendous night and a fitting launch for the Academy.
“As one of the sponsors, we were delighted to help out with launch arrangements and I’m sure that everyone who attended will look back on a great start.
“Along with the other sponsors, we look forward to playing our part in the Academy’s future success.”
