Bishop Tim hosted a schools’ garden party at Lis Escop as a thank you for all their work during the academic year.

It was organised by the diocesan education team and was attended by approximately 40 guests from our church schools and multi-academy trusts.

Guests were welcomed on arrival by pupils from Archbishop Benson C of E School, and entertained by the Mawnan Smith C of E School band playing joyous tunes such as Colour of Day.

During the afternoon, Bishop Tim thanked school leaders, staff and governors for their tremendous work with our young people in church schools over this academic year.

Special mentions were given to Dave Rushton, head teacher of St Petroc’s, Bodmin, Mark Lees, executive principal of St Piran’s Cross MAT, Randall Brooks, head teacher of Mawnan Smith, and Karen Holmes, executive headteacher form the Saints Way MAT, all of whom are retiring at the end of this term.

A special thank you was also given to Irene Pooley who, having worked in various roles supporting education within the diocese, is also retiring.  Children presented her with gifts and a bouquet of flowers as a token of our appreciation.

The choir from the St Piran’s Cross MAT entertained guests with their version of Rule the World and other songs before cream teas were served by the Year 5 helpers from Archbishop Benson.

Guests were then able to circulate, chat with colleagues and enjoy the beautiful gardens and views for the rest of the afternoon.

“We would like to give a special thanks to Tesco of Truro who kindly donated, scones, jam and cream for our garden party through their Tesco in the Community Scheme,” said education support officer Jo Olds.