Bilsthorpe primary school leavers celebrate with drive-by graduation event

Jenny Pavier, deputy head teacher, said that the staff wanted to give children a special way to mark their final day at the school.

She said: “We wanted to ensure that the children marked the end of their primary education in a memorable way with their families whilst still ensuring social distancing.

We also wanted the opportunity to say goodbye in person to the children who have chosen to continue to work from home during these last few weeks.

"The drive-by graduation seemed like the perfect solution and creating the leavers’ video has meant that memories from staff and pupils can still be shared and enjoyed by everyone.”

Pupils arrived by family car and many chose to decorate their vehicles with balloons and ribbons.

Pupil Lexi Warriner said “The last day is a bit different to how I always imagined it would be.

"I am happy that my first chapter is complete, and I am moving on to Dukeries, but I will miss my primary school and its environment.”

Fellow pupil Abbie Bradford added: "I have such a lot of happy memories here, I definitely want to come back again and tell my teachers how I am getting on.”

Anne Ingle, head teacher, commented: “It hasn’t been the end to primary school we all had planned for our year six children.

"SATs, the end of year performance, end of year trip and prom were all cancelled this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"You have played a part in history by staying home and keeping safe – you have saved lives.

“We couldn’t let you leave primary school without marking this milestone in your life with a social distanced drive-by graduation to celebrate what incredible young people you are.”