Jarrow primary school staff touched by churches' gift recognising their work during pandemic

By Tony Gillan
Published 1st Mar 2021, 06:00 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
Staff at a primary school have been touched by the kindness of local churches, who sent them a hamper to recognise their incredible work during the pandemic.

Hedworthfield Primary oi Linkway was presented with the hamper, which was a gift from the congregations of St Nicholas in Hedworth, St George in East Boldon, and St Nicholas in West Boldon.

The school has had a tough time, but has gone out of its way to help pupils, particularly the most vulnerable.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Reverend Paul Barker, who is in charge at all three churches, dropped in at the school with the hamper accompanied by parishioner Carol Robson. They have delivered hampers to schools and nurseries across the benefice.

From left, Cathryn Henderson operations coordinator at Hedworthfield Primary, Emma Jeynes head teacher, St Nicholas parishioner Carol Robson and Reverend Paul Barker.From left, Cathryn Henderson operations coordinator at Hedworthfield Primary, Emma Jeynes head teacher, St Nicholas parishioner Carol Robson and Reverend Paul Barker.
From left, Cathryn Henderson operations coordinator at Hedworthfield Primary, Emma Jeynes head teacher, St Nicholas parishioner Carol Robson and Reverend Paul Barker.

Gemma Jeynes is executive head teacher at both Hedworthfield and Valley View Primary School on Lambton Terrace. She was delighted with the gesture.

Mrs Jeynes said: “I am ultimately proud of the staff of both of my schools who have, without hesitation, prioritised the well-being and education of our most vulnerable pupils. Over 50% are in school.

"They provided food parcels, checked in with every child weekly, ensured learning was fun and always had a smile on their faces even though they are worried, tired and unsure.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Partners have lost jobs, loved ones and have been sick. Yet they have all given all they have to our children. We all feel very lucky to have each other in our school family.

“I know they will be overjoyed to know they have been in the thoughts and prayers of our local churches.

“I think the hamper is such a beautiful gesture and so very very kind of those who contributed. Kindness is the greatest gift you can give and I know the staff will appreciate the hamper so much.

“I know they will be overjoyed to know they have been in the thoughts and prayers of our local churches.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Reverend Barker said: “They have been working so hard to support the young people in our community and enable their learning, both online and in school.

“They’ve done so much and we do appreciate them. It was great to be able to pray for the school community.”

Read More
How South Tyneside youngsters gave elderly residents a Christmas boost after car...

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.