HRH The Princess Royal officially opens Paddington Academy

HRH The Princess Royal was guest of honour at a special ceremony held to officially open Paddington Academy on the 19th March 2009. Academy Principal (Acting) Oli Tomlinson gave HRH The Princess Royal a guided tour of the academy where she visited science, catering, humanities and dance lessons. After the tour, students gave dance and drama performances in the academy's theatre. HRH The Princess Royal then unveiled a plaque commemorating the event and was presented with flowers by the head boy Adam Atour and the head girl Hawa Hassen in front of a large audience of guests and students. Guests were very impressed with the facilities in the building which include specialist ICT teaching spaces fully equipped with the latest technology as well as recording and TV studios and a studio theatre to support the academy's media and performing arts specialism.

Commenting on the opening of the new building, Oli Tomlinson said: "It was an honour to have this special occasion marked by HRH The Princess Royal. Students were delighted to perform for Her Royal Highness, and we all enjoyed showing her some of the wonderful activities taking place here." Sir Ewan Harper, Chief Executive of United Learning Trust, said: "It has been a great privilege and honour that HRH The Princess Royal has opened a second academy for us. Today HRH The Princess Royal has seen how the academy brings to life the hope and joy that education can engender in young people. At Paddington Academy local students and staff have worked together to create a dynamic and close-knit community which students love being a part of. It is this sense of belonging together with a focus on learning and achievement which have led to a successful start for the academy."

Paddington Academy opened in 2006 and transferred into its new building a year later. It was the country's most improved academy in 2008