It was all smiles yesterday, as pre-kindergarten to Grade 9 students in Blackfalds had the chance to settle into their new school.

St. Gregory the Great Catholic School opened its doors for their first day of classes, which features a middle school sized gymnasium and 23 learning spaces which are expandable to 27 classrooms.

The $15 million school is designed differently than most; something Principal Chris Andrew said will benefit the students.

“It’s a really interesting building to be in. It’s bright spaces, bright colours, a lot of open windows, a lot of open concept and students really think it’s a great place to learn.”

After speaking with several people, it seems no one is more excited than the students.

Grade 9 student Aryanna Raymond said she loves the design.

“I think it’s a really good school. I love all the colours and how it’s built differently like any other school I’ve ever seen, like the garage doors.”

Her classmate Cora-Lee Holteen said so far, she enjoys everything about the school.

“It’s a lot different from my old school. It’s more open, the colours are bright, it’s welcoming and the teachers are very friendly and considerate. They’re just trying to make the learning experience better and I like that we have rec centres where we can draw on the walls.”

More than 440 students are currently enrolled in the school with the school capacity at 500.

St. Joseph High School also opens its doors for the first time this morning in Red Deer, with a special cake cutting event at 11:35 a.m.