29/09/10…Blue Peter’s Helen captures the hearts of Thame pupils
YESTERDAY was a truly memorable day for everyone at Barley Hill School, Thame, as teachers, governors, pupils, councillors and those involved in the design and building of the new teaching block, celebrated together its official opening.
Although there were many distinguished guests, including the Chair of Governors, Paul Nicholas, David Bretherton the School Governor who Chairs the school’s Premises Committee, the Vice Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, Patrick Greene, the highlight of the children’s day was the chance to meet children?s television presenter, Helen Skelton.
The Headteacher, John Hulett, who is retiring at Christmas, reflected on Helen’s effect on the children: “From the moment she began to respond to the children?s questions everyone was fully engaged with what she had to say. She shared some really special moments from her experiences and inspired the children with her enthusiasm and passion for the work she is currently doing on Blue Peter. She finished her interview by giving a challenge to all the children.
“She said, “The more you learn…the more you know about the world and what?s happened before, the better and bigger your adventures can be……I expect to see big things from you all in the future!”
Having unveiled a commemorative plaque on the side of the new teaching block, and raising the new school flag to a fanfare played by the school’s brass band, Helen spent an hour walking around the school visiting nearly every classroom and spending time talking with the children. She showed great interest in what they were doing and thrilled the children with her conversations about their work.
“She is certainly a great role model for them,” continue Mr Hulett, “and I am delighted that she agreed to visit Barley Hill. Many of the children will I know be writing to thank her.”
But, there was a big surprise for ‘Sir’ – for when Helen unveiled the plaque, he was amazed to see his name on it. For everyone had been sworn to secrecy and not to give any hint to Mr Hulett that the new, state of the art, eco building, was to be named after him.
“To think,” said John Hulett afterwards, “that anyone would want to name a building after me was astonishing! I feel honoured that the governors wanted to do this as a mark of my time as headteacher. For once I was lost for words!”
The day’s celebrations ended with a massed balloon launch and a PTA cake sale. The school awaits news of whose balloon travels the furthest.
PHOTO: Helen Skelton unveils the first plaque commemmorating the new John Hulett Building with the help of one of the youngest, and the eldest pupil in the school.
