OKEHAMPTON’S new primary school has welcomed its first reception pupils just nine months after getting the green light from the Department for Education.

Established to cater for the town’s increasing population, St James Church of England Primary and Nursery School will offer a distinctive Christian ethos and a focus on outdoor learning and education.

The school opened its doors on Tuesday, September 4, in self-contained temporary premises in the grounds of the existing Okehampton Primary School.

The founding class of 12 pupils marked the occasion with a woodland story picnic. The second day saw children picking apples from trees in the school grounds to make their own ‘Gruffalo Crumble’.

Marcia Horsley, whose daughter started at the school on Tuesday, said: ‘We’ve all been really excited about today after attending the Feast of St James and play session earlier in the year. The classroom looks lovely and all the children got a really warm welcome from the staff.

‘I can’t wait to hear all about my daughter’s first day and am sure she will be really happy at St James’s.’

Head of school Suzie Stevens said on Tuesday: ‘Today marked the start of our big school adventure. Establishing a new school is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am absolutely thrilled with how the children settled in to enjoy their first day.

‘Today set the tone for our school culture with new experiences, fun and lots of opportunities to enjoy learning outdoors. We have a really exciting term of activities ahead and I look forward to watching our Butterflies Class flourish.’

The long-awaited second primary school for the town will be based in the self-contained Great Links Tor in the grounds of Okehampton Primary School until permanent premises, currently being built off Crediton Road, are ready for occupation early next year.

Chair of governors and director of education for the Diocese of Exeter John Searson said: ‘I am absolutely delighted to welcome parents and children to St James and am confident that our pupils will enjoy an education and experiences of the highest quality.

‘Our ability to deliver a school in such a short time-frame is testimony to our strong partnerships within Okehampton and we offer our sincere thanks to all those who have helped us realise this shared goal. St James’ will serve local families with joy and hope now and for generations to come.’