Brent, London – Wednesday, October 15, 2025 – Newman Catholic College (NCC) was honoured to welcome His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, for the ceremonial opening and blessing of its new Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Additional Resource Provision Block named the Saint Carlo Acutis block. Named after the newly-canonised London-born saint, the facility houses the new special needs provision, marking a significant milestone in the school's commitment to inclusive Catholic education.

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A new block to inspire students

The event, which brought together leaders of local schools and Trusts also building similar provisions, local Catholic parish priests, School Governors past and present, instrumental in the design of the space, and representatives from Morgan Sindall, the contractors for the site. In the presence of the Cardinal, and students of Newman Catholic College, they celebrated the fruition of a project designed to offer specialised support to students. The new building is highly visible on the approach to the school, and is the second new block to be built on site in the past three years.

Cardinal Nichols was received by Mr. Andrew Dunne, Headteacher, and school chaplain Mr. John Roche. The visit commenced with the renewed blessing of the College Chapel, led by the Cardinal and representatives of the school's liturgy group. This visit marked fifteen years and a day since the Cardinal himself originally opened and blessed the chapel on October 14th 2010, and he shared memories of his visits to the school as he spoke with students about the importance of the chapel space.

The official ceremony to open the Saint Carlo Block began with a symbolic gesture: Cardinal Nichols was invited to plant a new apple tree at the entrance, signifying growth and nurturing. This was followed by the cutting of the ribbon by the Cardinal and NCC student Keyondre Ebanks, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.

 

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Blessing and Vision for 'Galilee'

The formal blessing ceremony, conducted within one of two new main classrooms, dedicated the new space to its mission. In his address, Cardinal Nichols spoke of the importance of providing a nurturing and specialised environment for all young people, particularly those with additional needs, and praised the school's dedication to its students. Following the Cardinal's remarks, Headteacher Andy Dunne shared the school’s vision for the Galilee Provision in the new block. His speech included contributions from students, who spoke of the importance of a welcoming and supportive learning environment. The name Galilee was chosen to reflect where students can meet Christ and one another, find their strengths, and embark on a path of growth. Saint Carlo Acutis’ words were used to inspire students to celebrate their individuality and use their differences as a strength.

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Distinguished Guests in Attendance

The event concluded with guests invited to explore the state-of-the-art facilities within the new block, including a specially planted sensory garden. "The opening of the St. Carlo Acutis Block provision is not just about a new building; it’s about renewing our promise to every student at Newman Catholic College," said Headteacher Andy Dunne. "We are incredibly grateful to Cardinal Nichols for his blessing and to everyone who has helped us create this truly special place where all of our students can flourish."