A new chapter has begun for Bedford’s education community as St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School and Preschool in Biddenham officially opened its doors on Friday, 3 October.
The occasion was marked with a celebration Mass, attended by families, parish representatives and members of the local community.
The new school, part of the Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Academies Trust (OLICAT), embodies the values of St Francis of Assisi – humility, compassion and care for creation.
With 300 pupils speaking more than 30 languages and coming from a range of backgrounds, the school has quickly become a welcoming, diverse and inclusive community.
A new beginning
Headteacher Gemma Otter said the opening was “filled with fun, joy and gratitude”, paying tribute to those who helped transform the new site.
“We welcomed many visitors, including past staff and the contractors who helped to renovate our building,” she said. “As a community, we are truly blessed to have this new school, which offers so much for our pupils.
“The resources we have are exceptional, with extensive outdoor space for our children to develop a love of nature in. We are so grateful for the history of our school community and, with that as our foundation, cannot wait to move into the future where each child can flourish.”
Catherine Burnham, CEO of OLICAT Schools, added: “It was a huge privilege to join the children and school community at the opening of our new school. We look forward to continuing to serve Bedford families in our educational mission.”
The school’s mission statement, “Let all that you do be done in love,” sits at the heart of its daily life and ethos.
Families in the Biddenham area looking for a school place for September 2026 are invited to visit the new Reception area and explore the school’s play spaces, woodland and pond.
For more information or to arrange a tour, visit stfrancisofassisiprimarybedford.co.uk.
