Leading scientist and broadcaster Professor Robert Winston joined Buckingham MP John Bercow to officially open the new £5 million Discovery Centre science facility.
The 12 laboratory facility, which was part funded by an innovative fundraising campaign, is designed to inspire students to consider a future in science and technology.
The ceremony marked the culmination of an ambitious three-year fundraising campaign by the school which set out to attract £5 million of funding from central and local government, charitable foundations, industry and the school community.
Professor Winston said: "The Discovery Centre is a magnificent building. It is certainly not just an ordinary science block – I have not seen anything else like it in the UK.
“The fact that it will benefit not only the students at the Royal Latin School but also those at other schools and the wider community is truly commendable."
The construction of the Discovery Centre is just the first phase of the 600 Campaign. Subsequent phases – which will follow directly on – will deliver improvements to the school’s sports, 6th form and arts facilities in time for the school’s 600th anniversary in 2023.
Headteacher David Hudson (pictured with Professor Winston and Mr Bercow) said: “The new Discovery Centre is a magnificent facility but the real reward for the organisations and individuals whose generosity has made today possible, is witnessing the excitement and renewed engagement of the students.
“The Discovery Centre project has been designed from the outset to bring together many communities. Former students and local businesses have not only contributed to the funding of the building, but will also be coming into the Centre to contribute their own valuable experience to the curriculum and the student experience.”
Professor Winston rounded off the celebrations by delivering a lecture to students during the afternoon. He used the Lillingstone Trust Community Laboratory, which host a programme of community science lectures by visiting speakers from UK universities and industry with almost a year’s worth of lectures already scheduled,
