A PLYMOUTH secondary school began a new dawn yesterday.

All Saints Church of England Academy in Pennycross started its new life after transforming over the summer holidays from its old existence as John Kitto Community College.

The pupils at the school said their first day was "exciting" and they noticed lots of changes as it became one of Plymouth's first academies. Academies see day-to-day funding needs met by the state, but businesses can be among the organisations which provide cash.

The sponsors at All Saints are the Diocese of Exeter and UCP Marjon. New signs have been placed around the site, there is a new curriculum and some buildings like the canteen and library have been given major refurbishments.

There are also smart new uniforms and 'vertical tutoring' has been introduced, which gives a big range of ages in each tutor class.

A total of 1,150 pupils started at the new-look school yesterday.

Amelia Symons, 13, started Year 9. She said: "It seems like a new school. It was an exciting first day — but nerve-racking too."

Hannah Ford, 13, said: "I felt like I was back in Year 7 because it was all so new. The school looks a lot tidier and a lot better."

Joe Gibson, 13, added: "Everyone was excited about the new school opening."

All Saints principal Pete Grainger said: "It was fantastic to see the past 12 months come together.

"The best part was seeing the young people's faces in the morning.

"It's great to be back focusing on teaching and learning and trying to deliver top-quality education."

All Saints will have open days on September 16 and 27, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, with an official opening on September 27, with the Bishop of Exeter. For more details see the school's new www.asap.org.uk website.

The city's other new academy, Marine Academy Plymouth — the former Tamarside Community College in St Budeaux — also began its first term yesterday. It is being sponsored by the University of Plymouth, Cornwall College and Plymouth City Council. The academy is opening its doors to prospective students and their parents today and on September 14.

Helen Mathieson, MAP principal, said: "Visitors will be able to see our facilities and hear about our plans for the future, I'm looking forward to meeting as many people as possible."

Another academy may also soon open in the Plymouth area as Ivybridge Community College leaders have said they want it to become one by the end of the year.