Jacob Simpson receives the first ‘The Tony MacSparran Award

Jacob Simpson receives the first ‘The Tony MacSparran Award' at Woodland Community Primary School

Friday (17 July) sees the end of a busy and rewarding year at Woodland Community Primary School and it has been marked with the End of Year Award Ceremony.

Parents watched ‘Pupil of the Year’ Certificates and book token prizes being awarded to one member of each class who has been chosen by the teacher for their ‘exceptionalness’ this year.

Children have received awards and prizes for being Sportsman of the Year and Spanish Learner of the Year.

The assembly saw the first ‘The Tony MacSparran Award for Outstanding Contribution to School Life’ being awarded, the Woodland School Family were very sad over the passing away of one of their much loved, much respected and hardworking governors, Mr Tony MacSparran.

To celebrate Tony’s life and his unending desire to improve education and life for the children of Heywood, it was decided that we would create an award in his honour.

Nicola Brogan, Head teacher stated: “In the passing away of Tony, the children of Heywood as a whole, and especially the children of Woodland, have lost a friend, an ally and an advocate.

“Tony wanted only the best for our children and he strove for this through his commitment to everything we do as a school. From sharing books with our children, to walking with us each year to the Cenotaph in Heywood, all pupils lives have been made richer by Tony.

“To keep his spirit alive, we decided to dedicate this award in his memory.”

The first winner of ‘The Tony MacSparran Award for Outstanding Contribution to School Life’ is Jacob Simpson, a year six pupil.

Jacob aged 11 years was recognised as being an outstanding role model for his peers. His excellent behaviour and superb attitude to work and all other aspects of school life were also commended and made him a fitting recipient of this award.