BRISTOL'S £36 million Redland Green School has formally celebrated its opening – 30 months after welcoming its first students.

The new secondary school in the north of the city held a science fun day to mark the occasion, at which broadcaster Professor Kathy Sykes unveiled a plaque.

The school took in its first pupils in September 2006 but they were taught in the former Fairfield School in Montpelier for the first year, until the flagship buildings in Redland Court Road were finished.

The school now has 570 pupils aged 11 to 14 in Years 7, 8 and 9, plus 340 students at its Post-16 learning community, which is part of North Bristol Post-16 Centre.

The buildings also host dedicated facilities for 50 pupils with severe and profound learning difficulties managed by Claremont School.

By September 2010, Redland Green will be full in all year groups, with 950 students aged 11-16.

At that point, it plans to bid for specialist science status.

Yesterday, the school welcomed Professor Sykes, presenter of BBC TV's Rough Science and Professor of Sciences & Society at Bristol University, along with the university's ChemLabS presenters, who led a series of science-related events that included explosions and a workshop covering the physics of ice cream.

After lunch, Professor Sykes led celebrations in the main hall with students and other invited guests.

Samba and jazz from school bands provided a musical backdrop.

Redland Green School head teacher Sarah Baker said: "The whole RGS community is very excited about officially marking our opening and we're especially delighted to welcome Professor Sykes and the University of Bristol ChemLabS team. Their input will make an important day for everyone here fun as well as memorable."

Clare Campion-Smith, Bristol City Council's cabinet member for children, said: "What an appropriate way for Redland Green School to celebrate its official opening.

"Bristol City Council is on track to be the first council in the country to rebuild or significantly refurbish all of its secondary schools by 2013.

"Transforming school buildings is part of the council's drive to raise standards of attainment.

"By investing in top quality facilities we are giving children the important message that we are investing in their future."