Shearer goes back to school

May 17 2008 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

NEWCASTLE United legend Alan Shearer opened a new extension to his old first school yesterday.

He joined members of the local community and Grange First School pupils at the official opening of the Grange Centre on Norham Road in Gosforth.

The single-storey building, which cost more than £500,000, lies next to the existing school.

It will host a parent and toddler group three times a week and other activities for both schoolchildren and the wider community. Inside, it is split into two large suites, a kitchen, toilets and a reception office. Alan said: “I’m very pleased to come back here because this is where it all started for me. I remember vividly pulling on the green and white football kit. I’m delighted that the school isn’t just surviving but is thriving and expanding.”

The centre will be used for adult education and by the Grange Residents Association.

And having previously been based in an old portacabin for 30 years, the Grange Community Association will use the extension as their new home.

Stephen Easton, head teacher at Grange First School, said: “We now have a superb resource which can be easily adapted for a number of separate uses and by a range of different groups.

“It is a really valuable addition to our school and will be used to meet the needs of the school and wider community.

“Jane Darbyshire and David Kendall architects, Newcastle City Council and Northern Construction Solutions have done a fantastic job to complete the building on time and within budget and we’re delighted that Alan could join us to officially open the building.”