A UNIVERSITY chief praised the quality of a Wisbech school at the opening of its new sixth form building on Wednesday.

Professor Edward Acton, vice-chancellor at the University of East Anglia, spoke highly of Wisbech Grammar School as former chairman of governors, Jeff Hazel, cut the ribbon at the centre named in his honour.

After decribing the building as an advantageous development which would enhance a “rattling good school,” the academic said: “I hope the stream of Wisbech Grammar School graduates who come to this university will continue and gather momentum.”

The Professor’s visit follows a record batch of top-grade A Level results in this year’s examinations, with pupils achieving an A*-B pass rate of 73 per cent, a three per cent increase on last year’s tally.

He then emphasised the benefits of higher education by saying: “Graduates live longer, they are healthier and happier, and they are better equipped to cope with change, including suffering.”

Headmaster Nicholas Hammond said that the new Hazel Centre was named after the former head governor who served the school for over 20 years.

He said: “Mr Hazel has helped to steer the school through interesting times and he has provided us with wise advice. We cannot think of a more appropriate person to name this building after.

“We hope that the new centre provides a very much needed bridge between school and university for our most senior students.”