St Mary’s Primary School in Broughton Gifford has marked the start of its new school year — and the official opening of its brand new library — with a scrumdiddlyumptious celebration for Roald Dahl Day.
On 13 September, pupils enjoyed their very own chocolate factory moment as Friends of St Mary’s ‘Oompa Loompas’ created chocolate bars with hidden golden tickets inside. Four lucky winners unwrapped tickets that secured them fantastic prizes including a family ticket to the Roald Dahl Museum, a book hamper, a book voucher and extra chocolate gifts.
“The children were so excited to open their bars at the end of the day and see if they were golden ticket winners,” explained Charlotte Godsiffe from the Friends of St Mary’s. “It was a fantastic way to kick off a fabulous new school year and the first of many literary events we’re holding this term to celebrate the opening of the library.”
Other events planned include visits to the Bath Children’s Literature Festival and a children’s book-themed Scarecrow Trail and Open Fun Day on Saturday 11 October from 10am–4pm.
The new library was completed over the summer holidays and is already proving a hit with pupils. Designed and created by local book designer and illustrator Anna Woodbine, the bright new space is decorated with inspiring wall illustrations and stocked with a wide range of books.
“Our new library looks absolutely wonderful,” said Charlotte. “It has cosy corners for free reading time, shelves full of new books including old favourites and the latest fiction and non-fiction, and it also provides a fantastic space for structured lessons. The children are thoroughly enjoying it.”
