Former Beckfoot School student is a cheer leader for new facilities in Bingley (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Former Beckfoot School student is a cheer leader for new facilities in Bingley

8:00am Tuesday 18th September 2012 in News

Students at a Bingley school got the chance to quiz a former pupil who rowed across the Atlantic to raise awareness of human trafficking as part of the school’s celebration of the completion of its new facilities.

Katie Pattison-Hart, who was in a team of five women who rowed the Atlantic at the beginning of this year, visited Beckfoot School yesterday as it celebrated the end of the building work at its campus.

The old school premises have been demolished and new sporting facilities built.

The day’s main event focussed on a series of inspirational assemblies given to students at the school.

Katie Pattison-Hart talked about her involvement in the Row For Freedom initiative. Her team also rowed down the Thames in the Queen’s Jubilee flotilla.

She said: “It’s a real privilege to be able to come back to these amazing new facilities at Beckfoot and talk to students and staff about how our all-female crew of five gained two world records for rowing across the Atlantic.

Headteacher David Horn said: “It’s fantastic to have the building and grounds finally complete. The new building has already made such a difference to what we can provide for students.”

Councillor Ralph Berry , Bradford Council’s executive member for children’s services, said: “This is a great day in the history of the school.

“The new facilities will be a brilliant asset for students, staff and the community.”