The Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, has joined with students and staff at John Keble C of E Primary School, along with representatives of local churches and community groups, to celebrate the opening of a new school hall.

Named Keble Hall, the new facility has opened following six months of renovations on a previously derelict building in the school’s playground. After receiving planning permission to redevelop the old building, the school fitted a new roof and interior to prepare it for use by the pupils and local community.

Offering a versatile space, the new hall will be used for sports classes and whole-school collective worship, as well as a huge range of extra-curricular activities such as drama productions. It will also host the John Keble’s weekly mass service, which takes place on Wednesdays, allowing the school to open up the service to members of its local community.

Catherine Allard, Headteacher of John Keble C of E Primary School, said:

“We’re very fortunate at John Keble to enjoy a close relationship with our local parish churches and community, who play an invaluable role in our students’ development. Keble Hall will provide a great new space for students to continue developing these important relationships in a fun environment as they learn to be good neighbours and members of our local community. It will be fantastic to see students and residents of all generations joining together each week with prayer and music. We’re immensely grateful for the support of our local churches, All Souls Harlesden and St Matthew’s, Willesden, and delighted that Keble Hall will help to strengthen our connection for years to come.”

The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullaly DBE, the Bishop of London, said:

“It was a real privilege to meet with staff and students at John Keble School and to attend the opening of the new Keble Hall. This wonderful facility will provide a new space for students and members of local congregations to spend time with and learn from each other on a regular basis. This strong connection between the local churches and school is a great example of how community organisations can support and work with one another to everyone’s benefit. The more we do to improve inter-generational friendship and understanding, the happier and more cohesive our societies will be.”