Gosforth Group opens two new schools

A Newcastle-based education trust is expanding learning opportunities with two purpose-built schools.

Gosforth Group Multi Academy Trust has officially opened Great Park Academy and Callerton Academy, marking a major investment in the region’s secondary education. 

The schools initially opened in 2021 in temporary accommodation under the Department for Education’s (DfE) Free School Programme to meet growing demand for school places. 

Funding was provided by the DfE, with additional support from Newcastle City Council through Section 106, Community Infrastructure Levy and Basic Need allocations.

Both schools, designed under the DfE Specification 21, feature modern classrooms, specialist facilities and sports complexes accessible to the community. 

Callerton Academy was designed by SPACE Architects, built by Morgan Sindall Construction and opened by Dame Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle Central and West, while Great Park Academy was designed by Ryder Architecture, constructed by Galliford Try and opened by Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North.

Each school accommodates up to 1200 students and includes ICT rooms, libraries, science labs, drama and music studios, art rooms and design and technology areas, alongside SEND-specific spaces. 

Sports facilities include dance studios, sports halls, multi-use games areas and large fields for football and athletics.

Dr Alexandra Thorp, chief executive of Gosforth Group, said: “We are thrilled to open the doors to our new academies. 

“These learning spaces have been thoughtfully designed to inspire learning, foster creativity and support the wellbeing of every student. 

“It’s more than just a building; it’s a foundation for future success.”

Dame Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle Central and West, with Dr Alexandra Thorp, chief executive of Gosforth Group

Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, opens Great Park Academy

Sustainability has been central to the construction of both buildings.

Callerton Academy incorporates air source heat pumps, photovoltaic cells, natural ventilation and green roofs, while Great Park Academy will operate carbon neutral, featuring renewable energy systems, rainwater gardens and a wildflower area. 

Councillor Lesley Storey, cabinet member for children and families at Newcastle City Council, added: “We are delighted to celebrate the official opening of these two newly built secondary schools, which are the result of several years of hard work, planning, collaboration and investment from Gosforth Group, DfE and the City Council. 

“Both schools will provide inspiring environments for current and future generations of our children and young people to learn, thrive and achieve their potential as well as wonderful facilities for the wider community.”

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