Students and staff at the new Mirus Academy celebrated the school’s official opening with a colourful balloon launch.

More than 200 balloons were released into the sky, each carrying a personal message from students about their dreams for the future in the Mirus Academy.

The Mirus Academy is the first all-through Academy in the Black Country and provides educational provision to pupils from early years, through to further and higher education.

It is sponsored by Walsall College, with the full backing of Walsall Council and its pupils will range from three to 18 years old.

Principal Jacqui Grace said: “It is a wonderfully exciting challenge to create a new Academy for all ages in our community.

Jat Sharma, principal and chief executive of Walsall College, said: “In line with our commitment to create Walsall College graduates through the skills of learning and enterprise, The Mirus Academy also aims to empower pupils to enjoy, develop and sustain a thirst for learning on their route to future success.”