Preshute C of E Primary School’s Year 6 pupils welcomed their buddies in the reception class to the school community in a service held in St George’s Church, Preshute on September 26.
Jess Knowles, Deputy Head, told marlborough.news, “ The buddy system, whereby a Year 6 pupil is paired up with a pupil in the reception class, started last year and has had tremendous success. It supports the reception children and gives them confidence. It is good for the year 6 pupils too as it helps them to develop responsibility and social skills.”
Watched by mums, dads and grandparents, the service was led by Rev. Miri Keen and Year 6 pupils. Each Year 6 pupil introduced their buddy in the reception class by name and placed a pebble, that reception pupils had decorated, in front of the altar. The pebbles will be displayed around the school.
Claire Graham, headteacher, said, “This is an exciting day to welcome our reception class pupils and to celebrate the special bond between Year 6’s and reception that grows throughout the year.”
Year 6 students explained the buddy system to the congregation: “We are like a big family at Preshute. We enjoy spending special times together. We hope we can look after the reception class pupils and help to guide them on their way.”
“They will always have someone to go to if they are upset or worried. We will share special events like dressing up for Book Week and going to the pantomime.”
Year 6 pupils also shared their memories of life at Preshute. Here are some of them :
“We have made life-long friendships and Preshute has given us a positive outlook.”
“We have lots of visitors to the school to help us.”
“We have fun and adventurous trips for all year groups.”
“We have Sports Week to try different sports and new skills.”
“We come to the church for lots of Christian celebrations. The nativity service helps us focus on the true meaning of Christmas.”
“Our teachers challenge us to be the best we can be.”
“Our school lives up to its motto – live life, love learning.”
The Buddy Service ended with the opportunity for Year 6 pupils to meet the parents of their reception class buddy.