A SCHOOL for disruptive teenagers, strongly opposed by residents who feared its effect on their estate, appears to have silenced its critics.

When Borough of Poole announced last summer that it proposed to use part of the vacant Turlin Moor First School building to educate 40 of the Quay School’s 14 to 16-year-olds, residents rushed to sign a petition opposing it.

Around 250 signed up in a day, with many fearing a return to the bad old days of the troubled estate if the council went ahead with the £1.2m plan for youngsters who cannot attend mainstream schools for emotional, behavioural or medical reasons.

However Poole’s newest school in Turlin Road, which has been running for two months, has now been officially opened by mayor, Cllr Carol Evans, cutting a ribbon.

A year ago Julie Bagwell, chairman of the Hamworthy Safer Neighbourhood scheme’s phone was red hot with calls from concerned residents, who feared the school would cause a flashpoint for local youths and were angered at the lack of consultation.

Now she says, all is “hunky dory” with the Quay School @ Harbourside.

“There have been no issues whatsoever. There has been nothing untoward coming from the school and nothing untoward from the community towards it,” she said.

However some other residents, who argue it is in the wrong place – next to the community school and opposite the shops – say it is too soon to pass judgement.

The school combines Key Stage 4 and vocational courses, previously offered at Broadstone Youth Centre and Rossmore Community Campus.

It boasts a hair and beauty salon, construction workshops and a professional standard kitchen with a cafe area, put to good use by catering students preparing nibbles for guests.

Headteacher Jo Perry said: “Not only is this a celebration for the school, these events provide real experience for our students to use as part of their course.”

Residents will also have the chance to take advantage of the facilities by booking in for a manicure or wash and blow dry from September and a vegetable garden will provide fresh ingredients for a community cafe.

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