Gosforth Group Multi Academy Trust has announced the official opening of its newest schools, Great Park Academy and Callerton Academy.

Callerton Academy and Great Park Academy initially opened in 2021 in temporary accommodation as part of Wave 10 (Great Park Academy) and Wave 13 (Callerton Academy) of the DfE Free School Programme, ensuring much- needed secondary school places in the city.

The education group claim the opening of these purpose-built schools marks a significant investment in the region’s future education.

Outside the front of the school, group shot holding the commemorative plaque. People, left to right: Lesley Bowes, Gosforth Group Vice Chair of Trustees, Dr Alexandra Thorp, CEO for Gosforth Group, Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, Pete Fox, Gosforth Group Executive Headteacher, Katherine Billingsley, Head of School for Great Park Academy & Great Park Academy students. | Gosforth Group

placeholder image — Outside the front of the school, group shot holding the commemorative plaque. People, left to right: Lesley Bowes, Gosforth Group Vice Chair of Trustees, Dr Alexandra Thorp, CEO for Gosforth Group, Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, Pete Fox, Gosforth Group Executive Headteacher, Katherine Billingsley, Head of School for Great Park Academy & Great Park Academy students. | Gosforth Group

Both schools feature outstanding facilities and modern learning spaces, along with dedicated sports complexes that will be accessible to the community outside of school hours. Students will benefit from contemporary classrooms and specialist facilities.

The designs include spacious, open central areas for lunch and break times, surrounded by classrooms, learning spaces and other facilities, as well as specialist areas for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

Outside the front of the school, group shot holding the commemorative plaque. People, left to right: Dr Alexandra Thorp, CEO for Gosforth Group, Chris Nicholson, Gosforth Group Chair of Trustees, Katie Innes, Callerton Principal, Corinne Raybould, Gosforth Group Chief Projects Officer. At the front two students of Callerton Academy. | Gosforth Group

Additional features include ICT rooms, well-stocked libraries, science laboratories, drama studios, music rooms, art rooms, a theatre-style main hall, and design & technology rooms. The sports facilities comprise dance studios, sports halls, outdoor multi-use games areas, and large fields for football, games, and athletics.

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Gosforth Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Alexandra Thorp, shared her excitement, “We are thrilled to open the doors to our new academies. These learning spaces have been thoughtfully designed to inspire learning, foster creativity, and support the wellbeing of every student. It’s more than just a building; it’s a foundation for future success.”

The opening ceremonies took place last week, attended by guests from the DfE, NCC, community groups, Gosforth Group employees and Trustees, plus Guests of Honour, Dame Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle Central, and Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North.