The Bishop of Ely was guest of honour at a Wisbech school when he unveiled the plaque at the re-launch of the academy on Thursday (June 14).

Wisbech Standard: Bishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTERBishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTER (Image: IAN CARTER)

Reverend Stephen Conway revealed the plaque to staff members and pupils at the Orchards Church of England Academy at the launch party.

Betty Hasler, chairwoman of governors, said: “We are delighted and honoured that the Bishop of Ely was with us to celebrate the school’s transition and new future as an academy with the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust.

“Just as importantly, it was a day to remember for children, their parents and the community.”

Wisbech Standard: Bishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTERBishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTER (Image: IAN CARTER)

The school has only recently joined the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust (DEMAT) and invited all representatives from the trust to join in the celebrations.

Also invited to party was The Mayor of Wisbech, local councillors and former governors.

The Bishop led an assembly on the day, which included prayers written and read by pupils, a new school motto and the presentation of commemorative bookmarks to all pupils.

Wisbech Standard: Bishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTERBishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTER (Image: IAN CARTER)

After a tour of the school on Cherry Road, the Bishop unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion and cut the celebratory cake.

Parents then joined the children and visitors for a picnic lunch on the school fields.

Wisbech Standard: Bishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTERBishop of Ely, Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, unveiling the plaque at Orchards Church of England Academy. Picture(s): IAN CARTER (Image: IAN CARTER)