Kirkland and Catterall St Helen’s Primary School and their adjoining pre-school Jellybeans are celebrating after the successful inspections from Ofsted and The Blackburn Diocese. The inspectors gave glowing reports to both the school and pre-school alike. Acting Head Teacher Mrs Karen Price said, "I am truly delighted at the observations made in the inspection reports and very proud of all our children and staff.  Outstanding features, particularly in the area of personal development, and high standards of teaching throughout the school are just a small part of what makes this a wonderful place to work."

This was noted by the Ofsted Inspector in his letter to the children: "You are right to be proud of your school. It gives you all a good education and provides you with an excellent chance of being successful in the future".

Inspectors were particularly impressed by the caring way that the pupils treated one another, a sentiment Mrs Price agreed with, "The children are so committed and enthusiastic about all they do – it is a privilege to come to work with them each day." 

Chair of Governors Peter Hall commented, "The high morale amongst staff, Governors, parents and teachers is a tremendous platform from which to continue driving the school forwards."

Pre-school manager Andrea Mallinson said, "We are glad the inspectors recognised the importance we place upon the happiness of the children. One of the advantages of having the pre-school adjoin the main school is that the children feel very at home from very early on. They can interact with their siblings and friends across all years. Our pre-school and school have a real ‘family feel’ which we are very proud of."

Well done to all the staff and pupils at Kirkland and Catterall Primary School. You have done a tremendous job through difficult and trying times.

The Parish Council wishes to thank Mrs Josie Beattie and her wonderful team for an excellent fundraiser for the new playground, held at the Memorial Hall in October. The night was superbly organised and very well attended. The total raised was approximately £1000. Well done to all involved.

Mrs Valerie Shaw retires as secretary of the Churchtown Society after a number of years of dedicated and committed service to the society. Mr Ian Crook has become the Chair of the Churchtown Society and we wish him well in his new office.

It is hoped that Kirkland Parish Council will be able to apply for Quality Parish council Status in the very near future, being only the second in the Wyre Borough.

Friday 12th December 6pm onwards on Church Square.

Mince pies, mulled wine, raffle and you-know-who may be putting in an appearance. This is a super family event and all are welcome.

Black Box Computers from Lancaster have been an integral part of putting together our fantastic new ICT system and new laptops for the children this term. This has revolutionised the quality and creativity of how we teach the ICT skills and topics in our lessons. They also provide high quality support and development ideas for staff that ensures we move forward as new technologies develop. Many thanks to the parents, Governors and Friends PTA for raising the funds necessary to allow this project to happen.

Our annual event will be held on Friday 28^th November, starting at 6pm in school. There are loads of stalls, games for the children (and adults!) and refreshments. Of course the "main man" himself will be with us in his traditional suit from 6.30 onwards! All monies raised will go towards exciting new equipment for the children in D.T/ICT and for our outside play area.

Our little ones will be singing and acting their hearts out this year on Wednesday 10^th December at 2pm and Thursday 11^th December at 6.30 pm in the school hall.

St. Helens Church will once again be filled with the beautiful singing and words of the Christmas story on Tuesday 16^th December at 6.30pm. All are welcome to come and join with our celebrations.

The Parish Council is very pleased to welcome its newest councillor Mr Keith Ellin to the parish council. And he has already found a mission! No – not with until recently the all female parish council but, Britain in Bloom. Keith has a vision – pots overflowing with beautiful, glorious vegetables, scattered around the village for all to enjoy and tend. Then once ripe we will have a communal harvest in the autumn. So if you are feeling particularly green-fingered or are looking for ways to beat the credit crunch then come and join us. Please leave a telephone number with the parish clerk and we will contact you nearer the time.

The Clerk has an office in Catterall Village Hall. Residents are welcome to view planning applications in Kirkland or to discuss issues to be raised with the Councillors about concerns in the Parish.

Gillian Benson

Clerk to Kirkland Parish Council

C/o 57, Hamers Wood Drive,

Catterall,

Garstang, PR3 1YN 01995 600689

Kirkland Parish is also available on the web www.kirklandparish.org.uk

‘Dean House’, A6, Garstang By-Pass Road,

Catterall, Garstang. PR3 0HL Tel; 605260

Catterall Hall, Catterall Lane,

Catterall Garstang. PR3 0PA Tel; 604241

Dunara, 14, Ainspool Lane,

Churchtown, Garstang. PR3 0TA Tel. 601115

‘Kinnersike’, Cross House Farm,

A6, By-Pass Road, Churchtown. PR3 0PR Tel; 604829

Gracefield, A6 By Pass Road,

Churchtown, Garstang PR3 0PR Tel; 602281

31, Boyes Avenue, Catterall. PR3 0HB Tel. 603763

1, Stone Cross Gardens, Catterall. Tel. 604035

C/o Constituency Office, Great Eccleston Village Centre,

59, High Street, Great Eccleston, PR3 0YB Tel: 01995 672977