Year 6 children at St Lawrence College Junior School in Ramsgate were over the moon to receive a personalised letter from Sir David Attenborough.
The letter came after they invited him to visit for the grand opening of the newly revamped Junior School on Friday, November 17. The refurbishment, Phase 1 of a comprehensive three-phase initiative, is part of the colleges aim to provide a cutting-edge learning environment for all Junior School children.
With investment exceeding £1 million, Phase 1 has introduced five state-of-the-art classrooms and an innovative Learning Resource Centre. The space is repurposed from the former Junior School dormitories.
A key highlight of the refurbishment is the addition of a new stairwell, enhancing access throughout the building from the basement to the second floor. The inclusion of a disabled access ramp and lift ensures full compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), making the Junior School Main Building accessible to all.
Inspired by the naturalist Sir David Attenborough, the Junior School children chose to name the Learning Resource Centre ‘Attenborough Attic’ in his honour. While Sir David was unable to attend the grand opening in person, his response to the children’s letters is framed and displayed as a source of inspiration.
In his letter, Sir David Attenborough, expressed his delight at the children’s awareness of the challenges facing the natural world. He conveyed his regret at being unable to individually respond to each letter due to the volume he receives daily.
He wrote: “Giving my name to your new library room is a very great honour, and I would have much enjoyed being present at its opening. But it is an invitation that I cannot accept.” He explained that he was working on a new programme about a recently discovered colossal sea-going reptile called a Pliosaur, a fearsome sea monster that coexisted with T-rex. He expressed hope that the programme would be finished in time for Christmas.
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The Junior School celebrated the grand reopening with a non-school uniform day, with many children choosing to wear costumes representing the natural world. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was expertly performed by Jonathan, a Year 6 pupil, under the watchful gaze of a cardboard cut-out of Sir David Attenborough.
The Attenborough Attic was further adorned with a beautifully crafted wooden oak sign, featuring intricate animal designs. This sign, a product of the skill and dedication of DT teacher Jeremy Claustres and the Design Technology Department, adds a unique touch to the newly refurbished space.
Ellen Rowe, Headteacher at St Lawrence College Junior School, said: “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone involved in realising this refurbishment project. The school remains committed to providing an exceptional learning environment as it progresses through Phases 2 and 3 of the upgrade project.”
