A state-of-the-art school building, named after legendary football manager Sir Bobby Robson School, has welcomed its first cohort of students.

The Sir Bobby Robson School opened its doors to students in September – initially in temporary classrooms at the Murrayfield Centre in Ipswich after a building delay caused by the pandemic.

But the last few weeks of the Christmas term have seen the school’s first ever 30 students move into the new building in Lindbergh Road.

Adam Dabin, headteacher of the school, said: “It is nice to be finally in this fantastic building and to see students begin benefitting from all the new facilities.

“Many of our students have been in alternative provision or home schooled and have therefore had a significant period away from a traditional classroom setting.

“This is something we have been acutely aware of and our new school building has been designed to provide the best possible educational and support setting.”

The school initially opened to 30 pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, aged between Year 7 and Year 10, with that number set to double in September 2021.

Mr Dabin also praised the support of his new staff team, adding: “They have all been brilliant and dealt with everything that has been thrown at them.

“They have already built a really good relationship with our students and you can already see how that is benefitting everyone.”

“Our new building was hit by understandable delays but the project team at Concertus Design & Property Consultants and R G Carter did a great job in getting the site ready as quickly as possible.

“We are also very grateful to Suffolk County Council for providing us with temporary facilities at the Murrayfield Centre – something that really helped with our transition.

“I want the Sir Bobby Robson School to not be afraid of trying new things to ensure we have the best possible environment and to create a real school community, both with the pupils and parents – and for them.”

The school, which is run by the Unity Schools Partnership, includes 15 classrooms, soft play and sensory areas, a new multi-purpose hall, staff and parent facilities as well as a kitchen and dining space.

It was decided to name it after the famous England and Ipswich football manager following a public consultation.