THE next phase of the £2m refurbishment at Queen’s Park High School in Handbridge was opened by Professor Tim Wheeler, vice-chancellor of the University of Chester.

This phase includes the new sixth-form centre.

Architects Jay Ashall Associates and contractors Henry Boot have been working together on this project which will lead to a significantly enhanced environment for learning among sixth-form students.

The students have been involved in designing the new centre which incorporates study areas, ICT facilities, a social area and toilets. Students will be able to access the school’s wireless ICT network from laptops and study in individual areas that will provide a calm, focused learning environment.

Andrew Lacey, head of sixth form, said: “Students are always telling us through our active school council how we can make improvements.

“We are delighted to have been able to provide our sixth-form students with facilities that will help them to achieve their potential and develop into even more successful learners. The students were consulted and influenced the design and decoration of the centre.”

The students are excited about their new centre. Daniel Mossop in Year 13 said: “The new centre will provide a positive area to study and relax.” Alex Serafimov added: “I particularly like the new study areas, which are well placed and isolated from other areas in the centre. This will enable us to focus on our work.”

Headteacher Andrew Firman said: “This development follows on from our new student services centre and will be complemented later in the project with a re-fit of our library learning centre with extensive e-learning resources.

“I am delighted we have been able to open the new sixth form centre on time as we continue to work with our partners to plan for post-16 opportunities in line with government intentions for expansion in the future.”

The school has an open event on Thursday, February 7, from 6–9pm, when prospective sixth-form students and their parents will be able to see the centre as well as finding out about the courses on offer.