SCHOOL leavers from Gainford Primary School have been praised for the way they have braved an extremely challenging year.
Traditionally, the school hosts its leavers ceremony at St Mary’s Church which is enjoyed by parents and well-wishers, but this year was a more intimate affair held in the school hall, with no families in attendance. However, children still enjoyed a video presentation prepared by the church and vicar Revd Eileen Harrop.
Head teacher Chris Reilly told children: “It is disappointing that our friends from the church cannot be here. But it is lovely seeing how you have all grown and flourished.” She added it had been the most difficult year that any school leavers had had to endure and the children had done extremely well. Mrs Reilly also noted that it was one of the largest leaving groups the school had had in recent years – 13 would be moving on to secondary school. She said: “School is going to be a much quieter place.”
Each of the children read out some of their favourite memories which included learning about Egyptians and taking a trip to Whitby.
The pupils also reflected on their hopes for their futures which included becoming artists, engineers and astronomers. Each child received a holiday pack of activities and a Bible from St Mary’s Church as well as a surprise gift from the school.
