St John Fisher Catholic High School in Wigan has officially opened the doors to its brand-new school building. The grand opening took place on Thursday 27 March 2025, with a special ceremony led by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP, who conducted a blessing of the new facilities.
The celebration was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including the Deputy Lieutenant and High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Martin Ainscough CBE DL, the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Debbie Parkinson, and local clergy, staff, governors and representatives from the Archdiocese of Liverpool, Wigan Council, and the Department for Education.
Among the guests were several alumni, including Wigan Warriors Captain Liam Farrell, Assistant Coach Sean O’Loughlin OBE, and members of Wigan Athletic’s women’s team.
Perhaps most touching was the attendance of Mr Billy Hutchings, who stepped foot into a new St John Fisher school for a second time - just like he did 70 years ago as one of the first pupils of the original school!
The journey to this day began in summer 2022 with the construction of a road to facilitate deliveries, followed by the construction of a temporary building—now fully removed.
Demolition of the old school began in March 2023, at the same time as the new sports hall started to take shape. The building project was delivered by contractors Wates Group, with former pupils Matt Gore and Tom Myers playing key roles in the construction, making the rebuild especially meaningful for the school community.
The opening ceremony began with a drinks reception and a film which documented the whole building process, from inception right up to welcoming pupils into the building for the first time. Head Prefects Caitlin and Vlera served as MCs, while Chair of Governors David Mallin delivered the main address.
Guests enjoyed performances by the school’s talented choir and keyboard players before Archbishop Malcolm led the liturgy and conducted the blessing, and with it, the official opening itself.
Archbishop Malcolm said: “The new school building is very inspiring for local children. It’s a sign of hope for people in this part of Wigan, it is a beacon and a light on a hill.
“I ask for God’s blessing on this project and give thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to create this wonderful new school building.”
Joan McCarthy, Director of Education at the Archdiocese of Liverpool, added: “This new building represents far more than bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the dedication of the school community and a symbol of our commitment to providing an excellent Catholic education for generations to come.
"St John Fisher continues to shine as a place of hope, growth, and opportunity for young people in Wigan.”
