Catford school has biggest new development since it was founded almost 150 years ago
By Tallulah Taylor
A prestigious independent school has just moved students and staff into a £25m new development – the biggest there since it was founded almost 150 years ago.
St Dunstan’s college, Stanstead Rd, Catford, now has a new junior school building, STEM centre and sixth form centre.
Headmaster Mr Nicholas Hewlett said: “It was delightful to see the beaming faces of our pupils as they entered such inspirational new buildings this morning.
“I do not think the significance was lost on any of them; such a monumental moment in our history has been greeted by our whole community with palpable joy and a real sense of pride both in what we have achieved to get to this point, as well as what the future holds for St Dunstan.”
An official opening ceremony will take place later this year, when Covid-19 restrictions have lifted.
Head of Junior School, Miss Laura Whitwood added: “The 20th April will mark a day in St Dunstan’s history that our Junior School will never forget. It has certainly felt like the first day of a new beginning for us all and nothing could beat the joy, excitement and energy we all experienced today.”
St Dunstan’s Bursar, Mrs Clair Wilkins said: “This project has been a significant part of our lives for the past four years, and I was so delighted to welcome our fabulous pupils through the doors today.
“Seeing the building come alive with hundreds of excited and curious young people, makes all the hard work worth it.
“It is great to have facilities that match the high expectations of our pupils, and I am really looking forward to watching them learn in these new inspirational environments.”
Designed by Bond Bryan and constructed by Willmott Dixon, the new development is next to the historic Headmaster’s house, which is now the entrance to the Junior School.
The new complex is connected by a glass atrium, which looks out onto the school fields and its wellness centre.
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