Circus performers make Haverhill school pupil's return an enthralling one
Pupils at a Haverhill primary school have swapped the classroom for circus skills as a way of welcoming them back to school.
More than 350 children at Westfield Primary Academy were surprised with a circus big top in their school grounds when they arrived at school on Monday morning.
For two days, pupils in all year groups took part in professionally-run workshops and hands-on activities including juggling and plate spinning at the Chalkstone Way school.
Headteacher Toni Kittle said: “We wanted to do something special to mark the occasion as we welcomed our pupils back.
“We were all incredibly excited to have our school full again but we also acknowledged that there might be some anxiety about returning to school.
“Having the circus in the grounds, and also having a circus-inspired curriculum this week was a great way to support children’s well-being, learn new skills and simply have fun as we return.”
The idea was the brainchild of deputy headteacher Fiona-Catherine Thompson who added: “The pupils have all loved taking part in the circus sessions and parents have told us how much it has helped in making their first few days back at school such a memorable one.”
One parent commented: "This was such an amazing surprise for them all today. What an incredible school. Well done.
"So lovely for our children to share some happy memories after such a tough year."
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