Nursery Butterfly update Our first batch of caterpillars has officially transformed today we released one beautiful butterfly into the garden! Watching it flutter off into the trees Meanwhile, the next batches are all at different stages of their journey: One container is almost ready to chrysalis, with caterpillars hanging and preparing for their big change. Another batch is still happily munching away. And we've spotted one very interesting caterpillar that looks quite different from the others a pale green colour instead of the usual darker tones! Nature always keeps us curious. The children have loved observing the life cycle up close and seeing how each caterpillar develops in its own time.

All aboard as Wells pupils enjoy Pirate Day The Jolly Roger was flying when our pupils became pirates for the day, complete with missions, themed activities, and pirate names. Twenty-six Reception and Year 1 children at Wells-next-the-Sea Primary and Nursery School took part in the WOW (Wonders of Learning) curriculum day, which was organised by Class Teacher Jayne Gates. "We originally were hosting the event at the beach, but due to hot weather we relocated to the classroom," she explained. "We began the day by collecting our pirate passports and choosing a pirate name. Some names included 'Peg-Leg Pearl', 'Long John Silver', and 'Redbeard'. We then got ready to board the Black Pearl and waved goodbye to our landlubber families. "The children then met Captain Twinkle Toes and Limp-a-lot, who were the owners of the Black Pearl. They explained that we had a series of missions and tasks throughout the day." Activities included flag making, concocting pirate cocktails and kebabs, walking the plank, and digging for treasure, while the other members of staff supporting Pirate Day were Class Teacher Courtney Noakes, and Educational and Pastoral Assistants Nicola Hems and Brittany Walter. Miss Gates continued: "Our other mission for the day was to sail across the seven seas and deliver Damsel, our passenger, back to Treasure Island where she lived. "We completed all our tasks throughout the day, and, at the end, we received pirate certificates to say we had completed our pirate training and were officially little pirates. "The children thoroughly enjoyed the day, and some of their favourite moments were making pirate cocktails and pretending to sail the seven seas." WOW days take place regularly in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Wells, which is a member of the Wensum Trust. Miss Gates added: "We conduct various curriculum WOW days such as this in EYFS, as they are brilliant, hands-on learning experiences, which allow the children to learn in an interactive and immersive way. "This event was the first of its kind, in terms of being pirate-themed, but we have conducted previous events for different topics, such as last year, when we did an aeroplane holiday WOW day for our topic of transport. "The children learn lots from this style of learning, as it helps them to connect different learning areas, and put their learning into practice and action."

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Mrs Frary retires after 500,000 meals After producing more than half a million meals, our school cook has decided to hang up her apron and step down from her 30-year catering career. Lillian Frary joined Wells-next-the-Sea Primary and Nursery School in 1996 as a part-time kitchen assistant, when her two sons were pupils here, before going on to become our full-time cook. "Both my children were at the school at the time," she explained. "I've seen so many children go through the school – and their children, and even grandchildren! "My favourite part of the job was the children. We had so many laughs with the little children and the funny things they would come out with. I really enjoyed seeing their little faces and listening to their chatter. That's probably what I'll miss the most." Although the 66-year-old from Wells saw many changes over her three decades in the job, some things remained the same. "Bolognaise was always really popular, and lots of the children like traditional puddings like sponge and custard," she said. "I enjoyed giving a decent meal to the children. It was important to me, as I was really aware that some don't get a proper, cooked meal otherwise." Although no longer in the kitchen, Mrs Frary remains an active member of the Parents and Friends Association at Wells-next-the-Sea, which is part of the Wensum Trust. "I'm still on the PFA, which I joined about 36 years ago when my children were young," she added. "My time at the school seemed very quick – it doesn't feel like 30 years. It never really felt like working, as I always really enjoyed it." The staff and pupils marked Mrs Frary's retirement with a special assembly, where she was presented with cards and presents, as well as a picture of the school. "Each class had made me a card, and all the children were there and kept coming up and giving me hugs," she added. "The school worked out that I had cooked over 500,000 dinners. I feel quite pleased – and hopefully they were all delicious and were enjoyed by the children." "We are very lucky to have had Lillian as part of our school community for 30 years," said our Head of School, Helen Taylor. "Her dedication and care for our children has been exceptional. Every child is treated like a part of her family. "We will all miss her warmth and kindness – and, of course, her toffee cream tart!"

Science Week During British Science Week, the curiosity of Samphire class was sparked. They designed and built vehicles for their "egganauts" to help them make a safe landing back on Earth. Some landings were softer than others! #eggnauts #anchoredinthecommunityaplacetobelongaworldtoexplore