KELLY College now has state-of-the-art science facilities following the opening of the first phase of redevelopment of the science department.

Dr Allan Adair, 97, who began teaching chemistry at the college in 1939, one year after the science laboratories were first used, performed the opening ceremony.

The college?s science facilities now include wireless connectivity for the pupils to work on their laptops anywhere in the building, and also incorporate the latest safest features.

The work has included building an approach road to the rear of the building at first floor level. The new entrance allows disabled access as well as safe delivery of chemicals.

Dr Adair was introduced by David Milford, chairman of governors, who had been taught science by Dr Adair at Kelly College. Dr Adair also met up with Graham Collins, Kelly?s senior technician, with whom he had worked in the 1960s. The current registrar was one of Dr Adair?s successors in the chemistry department and went to the same school as him.

Speaking of the importance of science in our everyday lives, Dr Adair paraphrased Genesis 1 verse 2: ?and God said, let there be electromagnetic radiation?. He reminded those present of the many ways scientific developments impinged on their daily lives. He also celebrated the contributions of Roy Webber, former head of physics, and Ron Woodward, his laboratory steward for more than 20 years ? wishing they had been alive to be present with him on such an important day in Kelly?s history.

Pictured are Dr Allan Adair; Dr David Milford, chairman of governors; Mark Steed, headmaster; Noel Dunn, head of science; and Roger Huish, head of biology, pictured in the main biology laboratory.