Scaling new heights at Portchester

Sporting records were broken and staff retirements honoured at the official opening of a Bournemouth school’s new state-of-the-art million pound sports hall.
 
The Roy Moore Sports Hall at Portchester School marks a pivotal moment in the secondary’s history as for the first time pupils will have their very own sporting facilities after sharing neighbouring Avonbourne’s for the past 26 years.
 
The hall, named after a former Portchester governor who passed away this year, will also provide premier badminton facilities for the community and other local schools thanks to key funding from Badminton England as part of the project.
 
At the official opening more than 500 guests saw year 9 pupils smash the British one hour rowing relay record for under-14s by seven minutes, as well as enjoy a climbing display from other students.
 
Pupils from Avonbourne School performed their professionally choreographed Earth Charter Project dance, while award-winning Portchester Table Tennis Club showcased their skills.
 
Headteacher Chris Bradey, who is leaving this month following 12 years at the school, was also honoured alongside other retiring staff such as Len Idle who has notched up 21 years.
 
The night saw achievement awards presented to students from every year group.
 
“It was a special night for Portchester’s pupils and staff and to showcase our wonderful new sporting facilities,” said Mr Bradey.
 
“This hall will give the school and community an excellent facility which will benefit all ages and abilities and will inspire and improve everyone’s sporting and life chances.”
 
With a floor space of more than 1,200 sq metres, the hall boasts seven badminton courts, an 11m climbing wall with 17 routes, including beginners and traversing walls, changing and spectator facilities, four volleyball courts as well as providing for a multitude of other activities.