A FORMER head boy returned to his old Nottingham school to open a new £4 million building more than 55 years after he left.
Alfred Harrison left Bluecoat School in 1956 when it was in Mansfield Road – and the classrooms were a shade on the Victorian side.
But the new building has 19 classrooms filled with interactive whiteboards and wi-fi as well as IT suites.
He said: "It was a long way back and a lot has changed, but this looks like a fantastic environment for pupils to learn in.
"The Bluecoat I remember had classrooms that were a lot more Victorian than this.
"The uniform is another thing that I noticed has changed a lot – ours was a clerical uniform, white collars, brass buttons down the front and shorts."
Mr Harrison, who spent his career in the United States working for investment firms, cut a ribbon at the school surrounded by pupils, staff and councillors.
He told his audience that he remembered his schooldays well and that his teachers were supportive.
He added: "It was a place that encouraged you to learn and still does.
"There's no such thing as success and failure, the important thing is how much pleasure you take in what you are doing."
Work began in 2012 on the new building which was paid for by the Building Schools for the Future fund. Further work will be finished by spring.
Principal Sian Hampton said: "I am delighted with the new building as it provides wonderful facilities for our students in a great atmosphere.
"It's modern and bright and I'm happy with how the project has come together."
David Mellen, Nottingham City Council portfolio holder for children's services, said: "I am delighted to see the pupils move into Bluecoat Academy's new building. Once the works are complete the school will offer a greatly improved environment for children and young people to learn in, giving them the opportunity to thrive and succeed."
Mr Mellen said it was one of the last of the Building Schools for the Future projects.
He said: "This funding, alongside the Academies Capital Programme, has transformed 13 schools and academies in the city."
Further work at the school will see the refurbishment of existing buildings and the demolition of the main school building.
