West Norfolk Mayor quizzed by primary pupils

Pupils at a West Norfolk school welcomed a special VIP visitor for a guided tour as the Borough Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk arrived at the gates.

Cllr Lesley Bambridge, who has been the mayor for the last year, was invited to Heacham Infant and Nursery School to meet staff and children, and to answer questions about her historic role as the civic figurehead of the borough council.

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The pupils also had the opportunity to take advantage of the visit to draw Cllr Bambridge, complete with her eye-catching ceremonial robes. 

Cllr Bambridge said she had thoroughly enjoyed her visit and was delighted the children had taken such an interest in the role of a Borough Mayor and all the regalia that goes with it.

“They asked some good questions about being Mayor and what it actually means, which led to an interesting discussion. I was equally interested in their school and the wonderful work they have been doing. They live in a borough which is steeped in history and we are very lucky to have kept some longstanding traditions and treasures - including the Mayoral Regalia,” she said.

Aside from learning more about the school, a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, and having a close look at the children’s work, Cllr Bambridge was also able to discover why it was awarded a Good Ofsted rating at the end of last year.

Executive Headteacher Louise Jackson said: “The Mayor got to meet all the children in the school and they asked questions about her role. She explained the significance of the Mayor within the community and how she was voted in for one year.

“They also asked about her robes and chain – and they enjoyed capturing her ceremonial robes in drawings in their classrooms following the visit.”

The school was praised for its curriculum, as well as the “admirable” behaviour and “positive attitudes to learning” of its 112 pupils, who range in age from two to seven.

“At Heacham Infant School, everyone is comfortable being an individual. Pupils treat each other well, regardless of their differences,” said the report.

The report continued: “Pupils demonstrate maturity in the way they behave. They are polite and friendly towards each other. Leaders make sure that everyone is valued. They help pupils to become ambitious yet well-rounded young people.” 

Ms  Jackson, said at the time: “The rating reflects the continuing hard work of our staff and children, and we will continue to work to ensure our high standards are maintained and Heacham remains an enjoyable and nourishing environment for all.”​