Last updated at 16:31, Monday, 25 February 2013

“WOW” and “awesome” were just two of the comments made by young people as they saw the progress being made at their £22.5m new school.

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Parents were also equally impressed with the state-of-the-art facilities being created at the new Furness Academy building, in Barrow.

The building, which is being constructed by Kier Group, off Park Drive, is to be ready for the students and staff in September. The development will bring the academy community together on one site, merging the existing two sites.

A tour took place on Thursday evening for families with children in Year Six at primary schools who will be joining the secondary school in the new academic year. Some of the children’s older brothers and sisters, who are already academy pupils, also had a look around.

Kier and Furness Academy representatives showed the visitors around the building, including the design and technology rooms, open area ICT learning spaces, the 3D learning facility, the recording studio and dance studio.

The school will also have competition-standard sports facilities with a sports hall, trampoline area, 3G pitch, which is already in use, and plans for an athletics track.

Lewis Petcher, a Year Nine student based at North Site, visited with his family. The 14-year-old is looking forward to using the new science facilities.

The Miller family also attended the tour. Chloe, 14, is a student at North Site, and her 11-year-old sister, Lucy, will join her in the new building in September. The girls say they are looking forward to using the 3D technology and the recording studio.

Each child in the academy will have an iPad, something which the pupils are also very excited about.

Mum Philippa Miller, 41, said: “The building is fantastic. This should help Barrow for the future. We need to have the best facilities to help the students for their future careers.”

Dad Ron Miller, 39, said: “It’s teachers and students that make a school, but if this can create enthusiasm with access to iPads and recording studios then that is great.’’

Helen Robinson, Furness Academy’s director of engagement and achievement, said: “There was a very positive vibe from parents and pupils who were excited about the opportunities.’’

On Wednesday evening, there is a public tour from 6pm to 8pm. Anyone interested in attending is asked to call 01229 814980.

First published at 16:06, Monday, 25 February 2013
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk