A new high school is set to open in September and will serve grade 10 and 11 students in a number of northeast communities.

Classes at Nelson Mandela High School located at 45 Saddletowne Circle NE will begin on September 6 and cater to children who live in the communities of Saddle Ridge, Martindale, Falconridge, Taradale, Castleridge and Coral Springs.

The school was named after the former South African President and will house about 1800 students.

The CBE says the school was named in Mandela’s honour because his work exemplifies the significant difference one person can make and say it is an important lesson for students.

“This is a great opportunity to get kids back into their neighbourhoods at a school that has been purpose-built for modern education here,” said David Eggen, Minister of Education.

“The facility is greatly needed and will provide an excellent learning opportunity for our students who live in this area,” said Joy Bowen-Eyre, CBE Trustee. “It is our goal to have schools close to where our students live and we’re very pleased that so many students will be able to attend this school close to their home.”

“We really want relationships to be the key to how we move our work forward. We expect to welcome 1170, and that number grows every day, next week and so indeed it is going to be a busy place,” said Principal, Teresa Martin.

The school will start the year with grades 10 and 11 and will be expanded to include grade 12 next fall.

For more information on Nelson Mandela High School click HERE.