Author Nick Butterworth unveils pre-reception class at Holmwood House

News

Holmwood House School, Lexden, has been undergoing some exciting developments in recent months, including the implementation of a lower fee structure and the introduction of a new Pre-Reception class housed in a newly refurbished Early Years Department on its 25-acre site. Last week this significant refurbishment was unveiled by guest of honour and children’s author, Nick Butterworth, alongside Headmaster, Alexander Mitchell, and the CEO of Bellevue Education, Mark Malley. Addressing an audience which included parents, pupils and staff, Mr Butterworth recalled warm memories from his previous visits to the school before cutting the ribbon; ‘Every time I’ve been back to the school it is like the sun coming out. Whatever the weather’s like, it is a sunny place to be. There is a good spirit about the place, a feeling that good things can happen’.

‘What is encouraged here is children realising their talents, realising their potential and I’m glad I was invited to be here.’

Mr Butterworth also spent time in the beautifully refurbished building with the Pre-Reception, Reception and Year 1 classes, sharing with them the magic of storybook creation, his journey to becoming an author and his passion for writing children’s stories. There was laughter all round as the pupils were first treated to Nick reading some of his very own stories followed by amazement as they watched him recreate one of his animal illustrations in front of their very eyes!

The new Early Years Department now offers children a wonderful sense of space and includes a superb new day room which will cater for the ongoing development of the pre-school children as well as providing a stimulating and engaging age-appropriate environment. It is part of our vision to create a seamless transition for our youngest children and the creation of the Pre-Reception class enables children to be gently introduced to school life whilst establishing solid foundations, helping them to become confident, secure children ready to reach their potential.

Headmaster, Alexander Mitchell, has been sharing his vision of the Early Years Department with parents over the past few weeks and has enjoyed explaining the improvements.  “Holmwood is well-known for high quality nursery and school provision and this exciting development allows us to expand our offering to parents at affordable prices.”