Harrogate school launches before and after school club

Called Burnt Yates Buddies, it opens between 8am and 9am, when children receive breakfast, and between 3.30pm and 6pm, when a range of activities take place.

The club will be run by Ann Lilley, who said activities include snack attack cookery, messy art, fun and games, and growing and environment.

Headteacher Cath Wilson, who is also headteacher at Ripley C of E Primary School, said: “I think it is really valuable, especially for working parents so they know they have really good quality before and after school care.

“The children have absolutely loved it and children whose parents don’t work have asked if they can come to the club anyway.

“Mrs Lilley has put a lot of work into making sure it is fun, not just somewhere for the children to come when their parents are working.”

Infant teacher Helen Cairns added: “There have been boys and girls coming here since the 1760s and they have been coming ever since.

“But we have never had a wraparound service or Buddies Club, so these are the very first children to enjoy it and we hope even more come to enjoy being together.”

Parents were present and the children helped themselves to party food at the launch at the school, which as 30 children and two full time teachers.

Pupil Jack Broad, aged 9, said: “It is really fun and there is lots to do.

“It’s exciting and we get to play with k’nex and in the mornings we get to go outside.”

Pupil Freya Parker, aged 7, said: “Going outside and playing with the tent is my favourite bit. And I have second breakfast.”

And Dean John from Ripon Cathedral was on hand to officially open the Burnt Yates Buddies, as well as handing out awards to children for behaviour and achievements in school, and their part in the school’s football club.

He said: “I am delighted to be here for this special occasion, launching the Buddies Club.

“There is much to smile about today in this beautiful school.”