YEAR 6 pupils celebrated the end of their primary school days in style safe in the knowledge their mental health and wellbeing was in safe hands.
Barnard Castle Preparatory School staged its annual valedictory service and prizegiving just as staff were celebrating being awarded a national Mental Wellbeing Award.
They will now move seamlessly into Year 7 to continue their learning in the familiar surroundings of Barnard Castle School.
Headmistress Laura Turner handed out a variety of accolades including the Achievement Award, which replaces traditional SATs exams.
She told Year 6 pupils: “You have reached a significant milestone in your Barney journey. For me that comes with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I can’t believe you have grown up so quickly. On the other, you are ready for your next adventure and I am so proud of your incredible progress.
“Mental health and wellbeing continues to be a priority at Barney and we were thrilled that our efforts have been recognised by this award.
“We believe in preparing our children for the test of life not a life of tests which is why we offer the Achievement Award, which challenges them creatively all year, instead of putting children under the unnecessary duress of SATs.”