In September 2020 Swaffham Church of England Primary Academy, part of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT), welcomed its very first Reception cohort as the school transitioned from a Junior school into a Primary.
Mrs Nicola Kaye, Headteacher of Swaffham Church of England Primary Academy said: “To celebrate the school children’s achievements and their resilience shown, Swaffham Primary held a Graduation ceremony to celebrate their amazing achievements and to reflect on the great year they have had.”
Syreeta Rice, Assistant Headteacher and SENDCo from Swaffham Church of England Primary Academy said: “These children at just four years old began their educational journey starting school for the first time, attending school during a pandemic and experiencing lockdown. Alongside this, they are Swaffham Primary’s first ever Reception cohort and they have set the bar high! Our Little Terns Class have shown resilience and independence at a level beyond their years.”
Alyssia-Rose, age 5, explained: “On my first day at school I was resilient because I was nervous, then I got to meet all my new friends and the teachers. I wasn’t scared anymore. I am a bold beginner. That means I’m a really good learner even though I’ve only just started my school life. I will always be a bold beginner and challenge myself. Sometimes I am aspirational because I love giving myself a big challenge like writing really big sentences.”
Mr Oliver Burwood, CEO of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT) said: “Congratulations Reception Class of 2021 of Swaffham CofE Primary Academy. With high aspirations, a love of school and a thirst for knowledge, we know these children will continue their educational journey with passion, commitment and joy.”