Heart of the community

Staff and pupils at St Vincent de Paul’s Catholic Primary School, Liverpool welcomed back a former pupil to open their newly extended hall.

The special guest was none other than Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson; Bishop Vincent Malone also officially blessed the school hall.

Headteacher Mr Phil Stewart, said: ‘We were very honoured to have Joe open the hall as he has played a major part in providing the funding, in recognition of this fact we have named the hall the Anderson Hall.

“We would also like to thank the Archdiocese for their help especially Bishop Malone who agreed to give the official blessing and to Chris Williams for his much valued help and guidance.

“To think that we were close to closing down a number of years ago to where we are now is indeed a credit to the teaching staff and community.

“The original hall, transformed from a building that was not fit for purpose, is now a focal point for the school, children can now eat together, we can hold assemblies and hold indoor activities as a whole school.

“It is a wonderful resource for pupils, staff and the whole community.”

Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, said: “I’ve been a governor at my old primary school, St Vincent de Paul’s, for 25 years and I love the school which is at the heart of a great community.

“It is a brilliant success story with three outstanding Ofsted inspections, a fantastic head in Phil Stewart, a dedicated staff and pupil roll that has risen from 80 to 270.

“I have fond memories of my time and it was a real honour to officially open Anderson Hall and receive such a warm welcome, as always”.