School’s new library opens

Pupils at Otterton C of E Primary School are celebrating the grand opening of its new library.

The event began with a blessing from the Reverend Anne Charlton before the ribbon was cut by author Jan Oke.

The children then took part in a number of activities, including a reading session with Jan, storytelling with Cara Stratford from Exmouth Children’s Centre, an art activity with Chris Hooper, and an illustrating activity.

Meanwhile, parents were given tours of the library by the school’s year five junior librarians.

The finale was themed around Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with chocolate fountains and cakes with book cover flags, which the children received a golden ticket to gain access to.

The library’s refurbishment was funded by the school’s parents’ charity OCESA, as well as The Norman Trust, Budleigh Lions, and The Old Vicarage in Otterton.

School governor Elissa Rowson, said: “The new library is a huge boost to the students in so many ways. The year five students have worked endlessly to organise and get the library open as well as plan and facilitate the opening celebration, and the other students have been eagerly awaiting the transformation of the space where they will have a place during lunch time to browse, borrow and read books. It is also a special space for pupils and teachers to use throughout the school day.”