PUPILS at a York secondary school returning from the Easter break were hit by the “wow factor” as they began life in their new multi-million pound home.

Doors to the state-of-the-art Manor CE School, which has replaced the old Manor buildings in Boroughbridge Road, were opened to Year 11 pupils for the first time yesterday.

As staff too began to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings, head teacher Brian Crosby described the £17 million complex as “an exciting and vibrant new home”.

He said: “We are very very excited about our new home and all the facilities available to us.

“The students are somewhat overwhelmed but glad to be back – particularly the younger students.

“You talk about a ‘wow factor’, and that is what actually comes out of their mouths when they see the new hall.

“I’m absolutely thrilled and delighted to see the school in such a vibrant and exciting new home.”

The Year 11 pupils were the first on to the new site yesterday, with other year groups due to return gradually throughout the week.

Facilities at the school include a 400-seat auditorium that can transform into a theatre space, dance and drama studios, specialist science rooms, a large sports hall with four badminton courts, a fitness centre, a floodlit all-weather surface and four tennis courts.

The new building will also support Manor’s role as a specialist performing arts college and local groups are being encouraged to take advantage of the site’s impressive facilities.

Speaking before the opening, Mr Crosby said: “The school is more than just a provider of high-quality education; it is to be at the heart of the community. “It is a resource for all. We are planning to make the new school just the first part of our ongoing developments.” The new building was completed six weeks ahead of schedule and £4 million of the total cost will come from the sale of Manor’s old premises on Boroughbridge Road.