in their new school uniform
A new comprehensive school has officially opened – although pupils are yet to step through the doors of its new £25 million building.
Pupils from the former Oakdale and Pontllanfraith comprehensive schools began the new school year under the banner of Islwyn High School after a merger.
Pupils are currently still studying at the existing Oakdale and Pontllanfraith school sites and will move to their new home on the site of the former Oakdale Colliery in May 2017.
Year 11 pupils will complete their education at their current school sites to minimise disruption during the GCSE period.
Headteacher Tim Williams said: “I am delighted with how the first week has gone for Caerphilly’s newest secondary school. All of the plans that we’ve put in place over the last couple of years have paid off and it’s been a really smooth transition for everyone involved.
“All pupils look particularly smart in their new uniform and have already settled down to their learning.
“As far as they’re concerned, it’s business as usual on the two existing Pontllanfraith and Oakdale sites until the new £25m building is ready for us in May.
“It’s an exciting year for everyone and we look forward to seeing our new school continue to grow and flourish.”
Cllr Derek Havard, Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, added: “I am sure the new school will go from strength-to-strength with each pupil being encouraged to reach their full potential.”