On Thursday 13th October, Bishop Debbie opened St Mark’s CE School in Shirley, Southampton’s first all-through school for pupils aged 4-16. Bishop Debbie enjoyed a tour of the new school, led by enthusiastic pupil who were keen to talk about importance of the school’s Christian values of love, service and belonging and how these are central to all that happens at St Mark’s.
The tour was followed by a short official ceremony where Bishop Debbie officially opened and blessed the school. The ceremony included contributions from stakeholders and performances from the school’s newly formed choir and dance group.
The school has been built on the site of the old St Mark’s School which was founded in 1894 and had been welcoming primary school students for 70 years before Southampton became a city.
The new school will provide much needed additional school places for secondary school aged pupils in the city and this year’s new year seven intake is full, with all 180 places allocated. The two wings of the school are joined by a middle canteen so students from primary and secondary can mix as one community.
“We have been delighted to work in partnership with Southampton City Council, the school and builders in securing superb facilities for the children, young people and indeed the wider community at St Mark’s. The opening of the new building signals a new stage in the development of the school and offers opportunities for staff and children to flourish in an environment that will support learning and creativity; excellence in personal and academic development; all underpinned by the Christian values that form the basis of the school. Our mission to serve the common good, by providing schools for children of all faiths and none, is exemplified in this new provision for the families of Southampton.”
Jeff Williams, Director of Education at Winchester Diocese
