The youngest British woman to climb Mount Everest told pupils to follow their dreams and never give up at the official opening of Brompton Academy.

Bonita Norris gave the inspirational speech at a ceremony on Wednesday at the school in Marlborough Road, Gillingham.

She was guest of honour at the opening of the school, which specialises in science and the arts and prides itself on creating an innovative, creative and inspirational environment.

It has more than 1,000 pupils, who each have their own iPad, and every classroom has an Apple TV.

Director of innovation and community Jo Price said: “We want our pupils to be able to come to a school that will give them life-changing opportunities.

“It is about using technology to really make an education as engaging as it can be. We believe in our students and we believe that young people have the potential and, if we give them the right learning environment, they will excel.”

Head teacher Judy Rider welcomed guests before the academy’s chairman of governors, David Nightingale, gave an opening speech. He is also senior deputy vice-chancellor of the University of Kent.

Prof Dame Julia
Goodfellow, vice-chancellor of the University of Kent, unveiled a commemorative plaque. The university has been the main financial sponsor of Brompton Academy, as well as contributing ideas and making an educational input.

Guests at the opening included former pupil and The Voice finalist Jamie Johnson, long-serving former councillor Geoff Juby and Prof Tim Luckhurst from the Centre for Journalism at the University of Kent. They were given a guided tour by pupils and staff.

The school was granted academy status in 2010. The new building was completed in 2013 but now all of the sports facilities and outdoor works, which include an all-weather pitch and tennis courts, have been completed.

Miss Price said: “I like the open space and the light. I like the feel of the academy, it has a collegiate feel to it, it looks like a mature learning environment. We were the top first choice in Kent and Medway last year and again in Medway this year.”

She added the school had more applicants than places.