Hundreds of pupils, governors and dignitaries packed into the atrium of Unity College to watch the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, dedicate the £30million building containing state-of-the-art facilities.

The college in Trinity Avenue has taken four years to complete and is the biggest school transformation project in the town undertaken by the Peterborough Diocese.

It replaces Trinity Upper School and has a chapel attached to the atrium, along with a multi-faith room, flood-lit all-weather pitches, and a 250-seat auditorium.

In his opening speech Dr Sentamu said: "What an honour to be here to dedicate Unity College, Northampton's first Church of England secondary school.

• See next Tuesday's edition of Term-time in the Chronicle & Echo for more news on the visit

"Education is more than just passing exams; education forms the mind and forms a person's character and understanding."

He told the audience the college would have an important role in shaping young people's future and give youngsters hope and inspiration.

Dr Sentamu is Britain's first black archbishop and is the second most senior clergy in the Church of England, after the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

Following the dedication, youngsters carried wooden crosses to the main entrances of the secondary schools.

During the ceremony, youngsters from All Saints CE and St James CE Primary Schools performed gospel songs. Dr Sentamu was then led on a tour of the new facilities and classrooms, where he spoke to pupils in year seven before unveiling a plaque at the college reception.

Principal Sharon Goode said: "I am excited to see everyone here in what is an amazing place. We are proud to celebrate the end of a long journey."

lei.chan@northantsnews.co.uk