News, events and schools' information for families across Bath and West Wiltshire

Jack Hawkins from Year 4 at Stonar School in Atworth, Wiltshire, has been awarded a prestigious Blue Peter badge. Jack received the honour for doing a fantastic job in helping look after his mum who had to have a big hip operation earlier this year.

Blue Peter badges are awarded by the popular children’s TV programme for noteworthy actions by children, and occasionally adults too, from a series of categories, including environmental action, showing a passion for music or sport, or for exceptional bravery.

Blue Peter also gave Jack’s mum a special cloth badge (only for adults) for climbing Kilimanjaro last July.

“ In January I had to have major hip surgery and needed a lot of help and assistance for several weeks,” explained Jack’s mum, Sally. “Jack was my little rock. He was always fetching me things, helping out with dinner and feeding our dog.

“It was a very difficult time for everyone and he was so mature and compassionate. We are so proud of him. It was his godmother’s suggestion to write to Blue Peter about my hip dysplasia, how I climbed Kilimanjaro before my surgery and how helpful he’s been. Climbing Kilimanjaro was my greatest achievement, mainly because it made my family so proud and showed them that you can achieve your goals even in the most challenging of times.”

“Stonar School takes great pride in all our pupils who, when faced with challenging situations, show great personal capability,” added a spokesperson for the school.