11:50pm Friday 3rd September 2010
By Stephanie Tye
COMEDIAN Julian Clary is heading back to school in Cricklade this month.
Julian, who family ties in Swindon, will be formally opening Meadowpark School on September 11.
After planting a tree in the school forest, the star will cut the red ribbon.
The Old School House, in the High Street will once again educate children almost 50 years after it closed as a school.
Meadowpark School is expanding and will use the building to house its new classrooms, which will cater for children aged four to 11-years-old.
The Victorian Grade II listed building has been fully renovated and now boasts an IT lab, extensive outdoor play areas and an age appropriate library.
The Nursery School will stay in its current location on Calcutt Street.
Headteacher Rajvinder Kular said: “We have a strong tradition of drama, art and music at Meadowpark and we are delighted that Julian has offered to open our school.
“Children are encouraged to pursue both academic and extra curricular aspirations and we want to show our pupils that they can achieve anything with the right care and education.
“Meadowpark prides itself on bring out the best in children. We hope that The Old School House will inspire children to reach their full potential.”
As part of the opening, the public will have the opportunity to tour the building, meet the teachers and to buy books signed by Julian.
Children will be able to test out the new adventure playground and enjoy the school’s bouncy castle.
Entry to the event is with ticket only.
Sarah Griffiths, who has four children that attend Meadowpark, said she was delighted the school was expanding.
“I am very happy with the care and education that my children have received,” she said.
“I am over the moon that they are expanding and that my children can carry on their learning in such a safe and caring environment. We can’t wait for Julian Clary’s visit.”
Meadowpark opened in 1994 with just five teachers and 30 children.
Since then it has expanded to more 200 children and provides jobs for moer than 30 members of staff, many of whom live in the surrounding area. Meadowpark alumni have gone on to study at top universities such as the Universities of Oxford and Manchester in fields including medicine and languages.
To book tickets for the opening, call Rajvinder Kular on 01793 752600 or log on to www.meadowparkschool.co.uk
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