Excitement filled the air at the official opening of a school nursery in Hebburn thanks to a mix of snow and balloons!

St James’ Catholic Primary School held a grand opening of Little Shells Nursery @ St James, including specially branded cupcakes, brightly coloured balloons and an extra special visit from the CEO of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust.

Brendan Tapping, who was awarded an OBE in the King’s New Year Honours list, was thrilled to join the nursery children and staff for their special first day back of term.

“It is always a pleasure to visit our schools, but the excitement and joy at Little Shells Nursery @ St James was fantastic to see,” said Mr Tapping.

“The new nursery is the result of the passion, dedication and care of an amazing team, who truly believe in giving children the best possible start to their education journey.”

The new Early Years provision was named Little Shells by the pupils following a competition. Staff were inundated with “brilliant and creative ideas” and ‘Little Shells’ was picked as a symbol associated with the school’s patron saint, St James, and his travels to Spain. The lightbulb moment was provided by Year 3 pupils Lewis and Eleanor and Charlie and Eva from Year 4. The winners were treated to an extra playtime and a chocolate chip cookie with their classmates.

Headteacher Francesca Heslop said: “Little Shells Nursery @ St James has been created with children at the heart of everything we do.

“We are incredibly proud to open a nursery that feels joyful and inspiring, and we look forward to working closely with families as we support every child to grow, explore and thrive.”

St James’ Catholic Primary School recently announced its outstanding SATs results – 16% above the national average in maths, 15% above the national average in reading, and 8% above the national average overall.

For more information about available places at Little Shells Nursery @ St James and St James’ Catholic Primary School, visit www.stjameshebburn.co.uk

 

Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust has 31 schools across South Tyneside, Sunderland and East Durham. For more information about BCCET, visit www.bccet.org.uk