Herne View Church of England Primary school opened in September 2022 following an amalgamation of Greenfylde Church of England First School and Swanmead Middle School. Situated in the heart of Ilminster, the school now works across two sites in the town. To commemorate the joining of the two school sites into one new school a Blessing and Celebration Day was held with all the children and staff together with special visitors.
Claire Oaten, Headteacher of Herne View Church of England Primary School, said, “The celebration focussed on reminding the children that they make the school and how special each and everyone of them is and without their unique talents we wouldn’t have a school as wonderful as Herne View.”
As part of the celebration the classes received visits from the author Clare Welsh who came with her author mobile and shared stories helping the children reflect on the wonder of themselves and things around them.
In the afternoon Bishop Trevor Wilmott spoke to the children at the Ditton St campus and blessed that site before the children and staff made a human chain linking Ditton Street and Silver Street sites. Bishop Trevor and special guests from the Diocese of Bath and Wells, the Local Authority and Town Council walked down the chain talking to the children and staff before the whole school joined together at Silver St to watch Bishop Trevor bless that site.
Apple tree saplings were passed each way along the human chain and were planted at each site to signify how Herne View will grow into the future. Apple trees were chosen as the classes in school are all named after Somerset apples. New Herne View and Apple Orchard Pre-School logo designs have been made using images donated by members of the local community.
The children ended their day end with dancing at a disco run by the Herne View PTA.
Headteacher, Claire Oaten said, “Many special memories were made that day and thanks go to all involved for making the day as special as Herne View.”
