A NEW £560,000 computer technology centre is set to be opened at a North Yorkshire secondary school by BBC Presenter Harry Gration.

Called the Hemingway Suite, the centre at Selby High School was named after the school’s long-serving ICT manager, Malcolm Hemingway, and provides pupils with access to the latest equipment.

The centre has more than 100 computers with Wi-Fi access and a remote-controlled audio visual system, which delivers sound and vision across seven large screens to support students with their learning.

The main building phase took place from July last year to January this year and was partially funded by £20,000 from NPower which the students won in a competition in 2009.

Deputy head Stuart Lewis said: “The design and planning process has been really exciting for all those involved and a fantastic opportunity to develop a learning space which will have such a fundamental part to play in the education of young people for many years to come.

“I am confident we have developed a motivating and stimulating space for everyone to work and learn and which will support the changing face of education and its curriculum for years to come.”

Head teacher Paul Eckersley said: “Everyone connected with the school is delighted to see this fantastic new development in Selby.

“I know that a resource such as this will make a significant contribution in helping teachers deliver outstanding learning opportunities for our students. I am sure that computer technology, which already has outstanding examination results, will continue to excel.”

The centre will be officially opened by Harry Gration at 7.30pm tonight in front of governors, staff and local dignitaries as well as representatives from the local companies involved in the build.