Throughout the last decade the desire for improved sporting facilities at School had risen. The Technology Block, the Languages Centre had been added and the old Boys & Girls Gymnasia were well past their best. Indeed those Heathens at school in the 1950s/60s will recall the construction of the new Gym, which was Harry Birchall's pride and joy. The Governors at Crossley Heath, of which I am one, were determined to provide a much better facility for the 1000+ students who now receive their education at the top of the Moor. The construction of such a facility would allow the old Gyms to be utilised for other uses in a building that provides constraints in relation to the provision of 21 st Century education.

A Development Campaign started in 2007 seeking donations from various sources, which included both Old Scholars organizations. The budgeted costs at that time came to around £2m and whilst the School was able to provide some monies towards the cost significant fundraising was needed. This was very active and with the help of the Local Authority who provided a substantial 15 year Loan and the Football Foundation who provided a large Grant together with gifts of varying amounts from parents, current & past students, companies, the Crossley Heath Association and other friends of the School the project commenced culminating in a very fine building. This was formally opened by Harry Gration from Look North on June 12 th 2010.

The Head Teacher, Helen Gaunt said “We are extremely pleased at what we have been able to achieve on behalf of our students and the local community and very grateful to the generosity of all donors. It will make a huge difference to the school community”.

The Governors are equally delighted at the addition to the School's facilities and to its potential to contribute to the local community. The rooms on the first floor provide a suitable space for conferences, meetings etc and the new fitness suite will allow different types of sports to be catered for. It will also provide a communal space where, for the first time, it is now possible for the whole school to congregate and one which the community can make use of.

I would like to thank all old Heathens who contributed in any way to this campaign.

John S. Robertshaw