THE new Bishop of Winchester made his first visit to the school which bears his name to oversee the laying of a foundation stone.

The Rt Rev Tim Dakin presided over the ceremony, which marks the start of a multi-million-pound building programme at Bournemouth’s Bishop of Winchester Academy in Mallard Road.

Work, due for completion in Spring 2014, will cost £14.5million and will include 40 new teaching areas, a new library and provision for a sixth form, to open in September 2014.

Part of the existing building will be demolished and other areas will be the subject of extensive refurbishment.

The school has seen a significant increase in demand for places in recent years.

Bishop Tim also led a service, accompanied by Academy Chaplain, Rev Jenny Nightingale, and blessed the newly-extended and remodelled Academy chapel.

Pupils were then given the chance to have a chat with him and share their hopes for the future.

Bishop Tim said: “It’s a great privilege to oversee the laying of the foundation stone for these buildings, which represent a significant step forward in the life of the Bishop of Winchester Academy.

“Education is a vital part of the mission of the Diocese and of the wider Church of England, and schools are a key element in the building of communities.”

He praised staff and pupils at the Academy and added: “I wish them every blessing in the years ahead.”