Paralympic Gold Medallist Opens State-Of-The-Art Facility at Yarm Prep School

Yarm has officially opened its brand-new Prep School facility with the help of British paralympic gold medallist, Baroness Grey-Thompson.

The opening of the Hazel Andrews building began with a ribbon cutting ceremony, involving both Baroness Grey-Thompson and one of Yarm’s founding governors, Mrs Hazel Andrews. Hazel was a driving force behind the inception of the school back in 1978.

Following the ceremony, attendees were treated to performances from Prep pupils, which included captivating individual pieces, a fantastic dance and choir recital – providing a true spectacle for governors, community representatives and special guests.

Baroness Grey-Thompson shared her remarkable journey from childhood to becoming an 11-time paralympic champion, and subsequently an Independent Crossbench Peer in the House of Lords. Her inspiring words emphasised the importance of seizing the opportunities before us and not giving up when we face a challenge.

The opening ceremony marked the end of a 17 month building project that, now complete, is home to some exceptional teaching facilities, including a modern library and flexible hall, which can be turned into a space for performing arts. The building will also facilitate the expansion of the current partnerships programme with local schools.

Sustainable development is high on the agenda, and the building has air source heat pumps to provide a renewable heating system for years to come.

Bill Sawyer, Head of Yarm Prep School said: “It was a pleasure to welcome friends and guests to the opening of the Hazel Andrews building which will serve our school and the wider community as a venue for performances, partnership activities and much more. We are delighted to show our appreciation for Hazel’s invaluable contribution by naming the building in her honour. Huge thanks to Baroness Grey-Thompson who spoke with passion, humour and candidness.”

Mrs Hazel Andrews said: “It’s incredible to see this fantastic building available to pupils at Yarm School. I’m amazed by the facilities, which show how far the school has come in recent years.”

Baroness Grey-Thompson said: “I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to the children and officially open their amazing new building.

“They’re incredibly lucky to have these facilities at their school.”

Erin Goh, pupil at Yarm Prep School said: “It was great to hear from Baroness Grey-Thompson, who shared with us some amazing stories from her life as a child up to now. We were all inspired by the story of Mrs Andrews’ determination, and how we should take a risk to achieve our dreams.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved, especially the builders, who have built such an amazing facility for us.”