BOHUNT Sixth Form students and staff welcomed world-renowned scientist Professor Robert Winston to declare it officially open at a special launch event.

Guest of honour Professor Winston gave a speech entitled ‘Why Bother with Science?’ to students at Bohunt School – which shares the same site as the new sixth form – as well as GCSE students from The Petersfield School (TPS).

He also gave an address to the students enrolled at the new sixth form.

Later in the day, Professor Winston was given a tour of the state-of-the-art building by sixth form students Molly Reckord, John Galbraith and Isabel Broadmeadow, before formally opening the building with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony.

Bohunt Education Trust chief executive Neil Strowger said: “The opening of our inaugural sixth form is a hugely exciting milestone and we are delighted to have welcomed Professor Robert Winston to declare Bohunt Sixth Form officially open.

“At Bohunt, we have the highest expectations of our staff and students and are relentless in our pursuit of excellence in education.

“Our commitment to and passion for science is intrinsic to Bohunt and it is fitting that our students have had the amazing opportunity to listen, learn and be inspired by Professor Winston – a leading figure in the field.”

Head of Bohunt Sixth Form Clare Hodgson said: “We were honoured to welcome Professor Winston to open Bohunt Sixth Form.

“Since we opened our doors to students last September, we have offered outstanding teaching, unrivalled learning environments and personalised support to our students.

“It has been fantastic to see our first cohort, currently enrolled at Bohunt Sixth Form, embracing and enjoying their studies. We look forward to continuing to work with and support them to achieve their full potential – and to welcoming new students to our sixth form this September.”

TPS headteacher Mark Marande said: “Our students were very excited to meet Professor Winston and be involved in the opening of the new sixth form.

“He hugely inspired them with his passion for science, his humour and his advice for their futures.

“We are delighted to be involved in the Bohunt Sixth Form with several of our teachers delivering courses there and adding to the opportunities for our students when they leave TPS.”