A year of kindness: Kilworth community makes a difference

Following an incident of vandalism last summer, South Kilworth Primary School was understandably left shaken and saddened. However, in the months since, an outpouring of kindness from local businesses, community groups and sports clubs has helped repair the damage and rebuild a strong sense of community pride

Reflecting on the experience, Headteacher of South Kilworth Primary School and St Andrew’s Primary School in North Kilworth, Kerry Willars, said: “Last summer, our lovely village school, South Kilworth Primary, was targeted by vandals. Windows in our Woodland Hall were broken, outdoor musical instruments along our Woodland Walk were damaged, and our early years play area was left in disarray, with learning equipment, toys and even the children’s garden destroyed.

“This was a real low point for our school and staff, who work so hard to make the children’s experience as positive as possible. It was a huge shock to our school community - something we had never experienced before - and it was difficult to believe that anyone would do this.

“But as soon as news spread, our friends and neighbours stepped forward to help. Over the past year, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown to us, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a supportive community.”

Support came from across both Kilworth villages. Joseph Morris Butchers, an immediate neighbour of the school, kindly replaced the outdoor wooden playhouse and also donated a storage shed to St Andrew’s Primary School to help keep play equipment safe. Meanwhile, Kilworth Springs Golf Club has offered golf lessons to Year 6 pupils at St Andrew’s, as well as hosting a special end-of-year celebration for South Kilworth leavers - experiences that the children will remember for years to come.

Buckwell Organic farm and the Leicestershire Young Farmers have provided engaging trips and workshops, helping to inspire the children’s learning beyond the classroom and the local Bowls Clubs have also welcomed pupils back for a second summer, introducing them to the enjoyment of this traditional sport.

Kerry continued: “Like all schools, our budgets are tight, so the support of local organisations who give their time, expertise and resources to enrich our curriculum through visits, assemblies and experiences is invaluable.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported South Kilworth and St Andrew’s over the past year. Your kindness and generosity truly reflect the spirit of our communities - you have made a lasting difference to our children.”