Type=image;ImageID=2947;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Ruff Diamond officially opening the theatre;TitleClass=strong;
Dance group Ruff Diamond, who came second in Sky TV's Got to Dance competition this year, helped to officially launch the Amethyst Theatre at Aldersley High School on Saturday, (9 November).
Aldersley High School is currently undergoing a major transformation under Wolverhampton's £270 million Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme.
The theatre was unveiled to guests at a special event at the weekend, while the rest of the school refurbishment will be completed in September next year.
In addition to the theatre, Aldersley FM, the new school radio station was also launched by Signal 107 presenter Dicky Dodd.
The facility has been installed by city youth radio station KicFM, who presented throughout the launch day. KicFM will also be providing ongoing support and volunteering opportunities to help pupils to develop their radio skills.
The school has benefitted from a multi million pound investment through BSF and the theatre represents the third phase of the development.
Its modern languages, Maths and English faculty, along with the new dining hall, were opened earlier this year. New offices, sixth form area and science block, featuring state of the art laboratories will be unveiled next year.
Councillor Phil Page, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Learning, said: "The new theatre is a striking addition to the school and a facility that pupils have never had before.
"Everyone at the school is understandably proud and excited about the theatre and the overall transformation of Aldersley High School.
"This is another example of how Wolverhampton's BSF programme is making a real difference to schools and raising the aspirations of children and young people across the city."
Nicola Davis, Aldersley High School Principal, said: "The Amethyst Theatre is most definitely the jewel at the heart of our new school; an inspiring venue for students and the community to perform.
"I am extremely proud to have been involved in its conception and of the legacy it brings to the Aldersley community."
The £270 million BSF programme will see a total of 25 schools in Wolverhampton benefit from complete new buildings or major refurbishments. The project is set to be completed by 2015.
- released: Monday 11 November, 2013