Ward Jackson Church of England Primary School is one of just five schools in the UK to be nominated for the “World’s Best School” prizes.
Julia, best known for her “Gruffalo” and “Stick Man” books, sent the school a special congratulatory video message, which was kept as a surprise for the pupils as the nomination was announced.
In the message, she said: “Congratulations! That’s a huge achievement for quite a small school and I was also very pleased to hear you like my stories, not just that you like reading them, but I hear you’ve been acting them and drawing them and getting to really know the characters, so that’s great as well.”
Ward Jackson has been named as one of the world’s top 10 schools in the awards’ “Overcoming Adversity” category, alongside schools in Brazil, Somalia, Turkiye, Ethiopia, Kenya and Lebanon.
The school’s administrator, Julie Whaites, said: “We had been waiting to share the news and we finally told our children that Ward Jackson School is one of the Top 10 schools in the world!” She added: Their reactions to this and Julia Donaldson’s message were priceless – and we were proud to share this special moment with them. If you’re as proud as we are, please like, share and vote for us in the public vote. Every vote counts!”
The awards’ judges have praised the school’s commitment to removing financial barriers in an area of high deprivation, including a fully funded enrichment programme that includes trips, cultural activities, and residential stays, meaning that children get to enjoy things they might not otherwise experience.
Anyone wanting to vote for Ward Jackson School should please visit www.applications.worldsbestschool.org.
Author: Ian
Reporter and author of Pop Life, covering all things news, music and local events.