PUPILS at Bitham Brook Primary School were treated to a special visit from the Westbury mayor, cllr Sheila Kimmins, who took part in the after-school cookery club.
The mayor joined the children in decorating gingerbread shapes and took the opportunity to look at the school’s new design and technology facility.
Speaking to the White Horse News, Sheila said, “Thank you very much to the headteacher Mr Simons, the children and the staff at Bitham Brook for inviting me to join the after-school cookery club. The after-school clubs are held in the extensive new extension to the school which allows more space for other activities, such as dance and music to run alongside the cookery club.
“I sat with the children decorating the gingerbread shapes that the children had previously made, all of us deciding which icing and what colours to use. On another table the children were making peppermint creams which will be dipped in chocolate.
“Learning to cook is a skill that will last a lifetime, and to sit, talk, laugh, and share at the end of a school day is most relaxing. At the end of the session one pupil who had attended every cookery group, had helped others in the group, and would help with the washing up without being asked was presented with a wooden spoon and Christmas tree shaped cutter for being a star pupil; we should look out for him in as a future Master Chef!
“Every child has a talent, it is taking the time to find out where that talent may lay, and what it is that they enjoy doing the most, which then leads to success in the future in whatever path they may choose.”
Carrie Hinder, the assistant headteacher said, “A massive thank you for Sheila taking the time to visit us. We think it’s really important for children to enjoy a broad range of activities so they can discover their own unique talents and interests. We are proud that every week 250 children enjoy after school activities in many different areas.
“The school’s recent extension and new facilities mean that we can fulfil our vision to provide opportunities for every child to discover their unique talents. Our cookery club is amongst our most popular clubs, and it is great to be able to highlight its success with a visit from the mayor.”
Bitham Brook currently offer a range of after school clubs including dance, drama, art, calligraphy, choir, recorder, netball, football, cookery and the school has plans to include new clubs such as knitting, journalism, fencing, drum tuition and music in the new year.
Pictured: L to R, Julie Ward, Sheila Kimmins, assistant headteacher Carrie Hinder with children at the afterschool cookery club