By Steph Johnson

Last updated 09:31, Friday, 05 September 2008

It could have been a logistical nightmare but hundreds of pupils from two different schools came smoothly together to create the Richard Rose Central Academy yesterday.

Richard Rose Academy Morton head Katie Robinson with year 7 pupil Dale Telford-Coulthard

St Aidan’s and North Cumbria Technology College have merged at the Harraby site until a state-of the art academy is built at Lismore Place.

Although lessons have not yet begun in earnest, students have been meeting their team leaders – or form teachers to those over a certain age.

One teacher has been designated the open minds leader to ease the year 7 pupils’ transition from primary school.

The youngest children will spend most of their time in a temporary block of classrooms known as the Learning Village.

They will be slowly integrated into secondary school life as the months go by.

The younger age groups were the first to be welcomed into the fold.

Understandably there were a few nervous faces on the way in but there was also an air of excitement.

Central academy director Mark Yearsley was one of several members of staff in yellow jackets directing both buses and children.

After the students had been safely shepherded into class, Mr Yearsley told The Cumberland News: “It will be Monday when all 1,500 pupils are here but that’s the point of a phased return.

“All the buses were here so we were able to have a practice run. It’s about learning how the building works.”

Meanwhile, over in Wigton Road, Morton School re-opened its doors as Carlisle’s second Richard Rose academy.

And a third Cumbrian academy opened in Egremont as Wyndham School became West Lakes Academy

The school has been refurbished and boasts a new IT system plus a new headteacher – academy director Barrie Cooper – who has only been in post for three days.

Mr Cooper said: “It’s gone well.

“I’m really pleased with the students. They’ve come back enthusiastic and looking smart in their uniforms.

“The focus at West Lakes will be learning rather than teaching and in order to do that students need to understand what they have to do to take ownership of the learning.

“There will be lots of workshops so they can find out how to move forward and get the tools they need to learn,” added Mr Cooper.

“The feedback has been good so far.”