A SCHOOL in North Finchley was officially opened by the Archbishop of Canterbury last week.

Dr Rowan Williams visited Wren Academy in Hilton Avenue where he unveiled a plaque commemorating the opening and had a tour of the classrooms.

Pupils and staff at the Church of England secondary school joined Dr Williams in a service with prayers and hymns before a group of Year Nine students had the chance to ask him questions about his role and faith.

Amanda Shodeko, a Year Nine pupil, said: “We were very privileged to have the Archbishop come to the school.

“When he went into the classrooms I think it was a moment that the students will never forget.”

Although part of the academy opened in September 2008, the official opening event was arranged to take place once all its buildings were complete and in use.

Around £23million was spent on building the academy which currently has three year groups and around 500 students.

Over the next four years it will take in an extra year group every September and hopes to have around 1,100 pupils.

Principal of the academy, Michael Whitworth, said: “I am delighted the Archbishop was able to find the time to visit us.

“Our students have been absolutely thrilled to see him here.

“Dr William’s visit is a huge endorsement of the academy’s progress.”