"Topping Out" Ceremony for New Buildings

15th September 2011

A landmark stage in the construction of the £24m new Academy buildings in Harold Hill was reached today when the final section of concrete was poured.

Governors, staff and honoured guests joined Principal, Mr Slater and building contractors, the Kier Group, for a traditional “topping out” ceremony, where a ceremonial trowel was used to complete the concrete work. 

Master of The Drapers’ Company, Anthony Walker, gave a short speech, followed by a blessing from Rev. Russell Moul, from St Paul’s Church and Academy Governor.

The “topping out” of a new building is an ancient tradition first performed in the UK in 1393 during the construction of Winchester School but remains a custom still practicesd by builders today. A symbolic ceremony, this celebration is intended to ensure good fortune. 

Mr Slater commented “This is a major step forward and the shape and size of the building will become increasingly evident. We are very excited about welcoming an increased number of year 7 pupils to the Academy next year as well as having a sixth form in the new buildings in September 2012 ”

Guests at the ceremony included, Sir Nick Montagu, Queen Mary’s, University of London; Anthony Walker, Master, The Drapers’ Company; Rear Admiral Alastair Ross, The Clerk, The Drapers’ Company; Cllr Melvin Wallace, Mayor of Havering and Chair of Governors, Adrian Lyons; and Governors Morag Shiach, Karen Taylor and Mike Watkinson.