It was a real pleasure to attend the official opening of the Brian Clarke CE Academy in Oldham.
The opening today has been the result of many years of hard work.
Lead by the Cranmer Education Trust it has grown out of the Blue Coat School with an admissions policy designed to create a school for the whole borough; all faiths and none, and from all communities.
Testament to this is that the pupils currently attending in years 7 and 8 are drawn from 62 primary schools!
In a borough which has seen self selected segregation embedded, it is a civic and social responsibility to create more opportunities for cohesion, integration and friendships across all backgrounds, races and religions if we are to build a common bond.
And in our school system the shared dividend for all who invest in it must be excellence in attainment.
I want to thank and recognise personally the work of Julie Hollis who has been an outstanding education leader. Her passion for young people in the borough is clear. Together with the trust, governors and partners as well as its headteacher Allison Ash they are a credit to the borough.
I also want to wish Sir Brian Clarke, the Oldham born stained glass artist who gives his name to the school, a speedy recovery in hospital following an operation yesterday.
Finally, and most importantly to thank all the pupils who gave their time to welcome visitors today and the exceptional performances in song and poetry which brought more than a few to tears, they showed the very best of our wonderful borough.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 