R A Butler Academy in Saffron Walden has said goodbye to Year 6 pupils and a long-serving teaching assistant as they move on to the next chapter.

The Year 6 children had a fun and action-packed ending to their time at primary school, which included a residential trip at Eaton Vale in Norfolk where they had a go at high rope challenges and water activities.

Saffron Walden Reporter: One pupil dressed up as the R A ButterflyOne pupil dressed up as the R A Butterfly (Image: RAB)

They also had their annual water afternoon, which was organised by sports lead Mr Smith. 

The PTA arranged a fancy dress leavers' disco.

A spokesperson for the school said: "We had some brilliantly creative ideas including 'star of the week' certificates, sweets, peacock and an incredible R A Butterfly ready to spread its wings for pastures new."

Saffron Walden Reporter: Year 6 pupils dressed up in fancy dressYear 6 pupils dressed up in fancy dress (Image: RAB)

The children also performed a production showing the journey through their time at R A Butler, and the school invited parents to a leavers' coffee morning.

Headteacher Emma Vincent said: "It is such a privilege to see our children develop and grow during their primary years.

"We are so proud of all these children have achieved in their time with us and we wish them all the very best as they start this new chapter of their lives."

Saffron Walden Reporter: Year 6 children dressed up in fancy dress at R A Butler AcademyYear 6 children dressed up in fancy dress at R A Butler Academy (Image: RAB)

The end of the summer term also marked the end of an era at R A Butler, as the school said farewell to teaching assistant Anona Clark, who has worked at the school for 27 years.

READ MORE

Emma said: "Anona has been a nurturing, comforting, kind and solid presence at RAB for as long as anyone can remember,

"We know that RAB blue runs through her veins and she has literally seen thousands of children come through the school.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Teaching assistant Anona Clark is leaving after 27 yearsTeaching assistant Anona Clark is leaving after 27 years (Image: RAB)

"Anona starts her truly deserved retirement. We will miss her immensely and wish her all the best in the future."

Anona added: "I will really miss my RAB family."

R A Butler Academy is a three form entry school in South Road, with 90 children in each year group, and is part of the Saffron Academy Trust along with Katherine Semar School and Saffron Walden County High School.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Year 6 pupils at R A Butler Academy took part in outdoor activitiesYear 6 pupils at R A Butler Academy took part in outdoor activities (Image: RAB)