A TRIPLE Olympian returned to his former school in Cirencester on Friday, September 14 to open a new flagship building.

Peter Reed OBE arrived in style at Deer Park School on a motorbike to cut the ribbon and officially open the new flagship building housing the school's English, Computer Science and Religious Philosophy faculties.

One of the most decorated rowers ever in the GB Rowing Team, Peter, who was a pupil at Deer Park in the early 90s, won five golds, three of them during Rio 2016 and three silvers at the World Rowing Championships during an illustrious career.

This event took place alongside the formal launch of The Corinium Education Trust of which Deer Park is one of the founding members.

In front of an audience of pupils, staff and invited guests Peter was invited to cut the red ribbon by Chiquita Henson, Headteacher and CEO of The Corinium Education Trust, and, in commemoration of his visit and outstanding achievements to unveil a special plaque in the foyer.

In his short speech, Peter reflected on the value of his comprehensive education and how much he had enjoyed his time at Deer Park.

He said it was a privilege to be invited back and showed tremendous humility in accepting the school’s invitation to open the new classroom suite. He was touched that the school had also chosen to fly the Olympic flag in his honour.

Before the formal ceremony, Peter was introduced to our Sports’ Captains in Years 10 and 11 with whom he shared stories and cake.

He also toured Year 7 lessons. He reflected on his achievements and commitment to a rigorous training regime and allowed pupils to hold his gold medals.

However, as an active role model, his consistent and encouraging message to all pupils was ‘work hard’ and ‘be kind.’

Headteacher Chiquita Henson said: "It was lovely to meet Peter again and welcome him back to Deer Park. I am extremely grateful to him for the time he spent with our pupils and his generosity of spirit. On behalf of the school, I wish him all the very best in the future."

Cath Brace, Assistant Head, added: "It was a real pleasure to spend the time with Pete on Friday, September 14. He was very generous with his time and his story.

"It was a great to see the awe in the faces of our pupils and the genuine warmth and fascination they displayed as they listened to him talk about his training and achievements."

The opening of the new building was also an opportunity to thank the school’s architects (Roberts Limbrick), consultant Simon Large and the building contractors (Feltham), who had allowed pupils and staff to tour the construction site at intervals.

Graham Russell, Chair of the Corinium Education Trust and currently Chair of Deer Park’s Local Governing Body said: "This new building at Deer Park is transformative and, coupled with the school’s new astroturf, is testimony to the commitment and ambition leaders and governors within The Corinium Education Trust share across all of its member schools.’"