All 150 pupils at Beckington CofE First School in Beckington and Mells CofE First School in Mells are being given a cuddly bear from their teachers, to recognise the challenges that each child has faced over the past year and to show how proud the school is of them as individuals.
It is hoped that the bear will become a constant companion, and a reminder to the children of how strong they can be when faced with adversity.
The idea came from two members of staff at Mells First School; Lucy Pearce-Bailey who teaches years one and two, and teaching assistant Nikki Antell.
Lucy said, “The wellbeing of the children is at the forefront of everything we do, and we wanted to recognise the gargantuan effort that our pupils have made over the last year, learning from home and not being able to socialise with their friends. They have been absolute stars.”
The bears have been exploring the schools before joining their new families. They have participated in an assembly, had a teddy bears picnic and even enjoyed a play on the adventure equipment!
The feedback so far from the school community has been phenomenal, with many parents saying that it has brought a big smile to their child’s face. The school has also received praise for the morale-boosting videos the teachers have been sending to their classes to brighten up the pupils’ day during this extremely challenging time.
Claire Chantler, executive headteacher of Beckington and Mells Church Schools Federation said, “Resilience is a key ethos of our school curriculum and we’re so proud of the way our children have adapted to the changes they have faced. It’s been a difficult year in so many respects and it’s lovely to be able to share some joy. We very much look forward to welcoming all our pupils back to the classroom soon.”
The Parents and Friends Association (PFA) at Mells school part-funded the cost of the bears, for the enjoyment of the children.
Beckington and Mells Church School Federation is formed of two first schools on the outskirts of Frome; Mells CofE First School and Beckington CofE First School. The two schools federated in September 2019 and share an executive headteacher. The schools’ vision is to create a safe, caring and aspirational learning community, inspired by Christian values, where children thrive through challenge, friendship, fun and belonging.
