Archbishop of York visits Bluecoat Academy

The new 420-place school, in Harvey Road, Bilborough is the first Church of England Primary School to be opened in Nottingham for more than 10 years.

The last C of E School, The Nottingham Emmanuel School, opened in 2003.

The new site has 15 classrooms, an assembly hall, a playground, break-out areas, small group rooms, a specialist unit for children with autism and a 26-place nursery.

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, said Church of England schools were trying to change people's views about them being a 'one faith' school.

"Parish churches will do weddings, funerals etc. for anyone of any faith, and that's what schools are doing. The fact there is a new school opening shows that parents are demanding it.

"I saw in the opening today children of all different backgrounds in the school. Who wouldn't want to send their children to school where the ethos is first God, then neighbour, then you."

The Archbishop of York is the most senior person of the church in the north of England, so was invited along to bless the school.

He previously opened the Bluecoat's secondary school in 2008.

Head teacher Sue-Ellen Shaw, said: "The school encourages all children to 'strive for life in all its fullness' (John 10:10).

"We want to thank the Archbishop for carrying us forward into one direction. Today has been a memorable day."