Whitley Bay primary school pays tribute to key workers…

Whitley Bay primary school pays tribute to key workers by designing stained glass window

A Whitley Bay primary school has paid tribute to key workers for their efforts during the Covid pandemic by designing a stained-glass window.

The images of St Mary’s Lighthouse, rainbows, hearts, the NHS, and the word ‘Heroes’ are common themes the children drew for the inspiration of the stained-glass window. It expresses their feelings about their experiences during the pandemic and how they would like it to be remembered.

Last year, 2021, pupils of Coquet Park First School in Whitley Bay, were asked to draw their favourite design ideas, and e ntries were submitted from each year group to The GlassHouse who then chose their favourite designs. Derek Halliday owner of The GlassHouse, along with his team of glass designers transferred their designs into glass, presenting the school with their new window that is on display for free.

Derek said: “We all need to be very proud of how we have got through the last couple of years and what's wonderful is that we are here and working together and our children are the little heroes who take it all one day at a time ready to fit in and follow whatever is needed. They are incredible - so we have all made something beautiful to celebrate this achievement and the beauty that can be found in the human spirit in difficult times."

Year 2 pupil Alicia Bonnick, seven, said: "It’s colourful and unique and you won't find it anywhere else. It’s a lovely reminder of the good parts of lockdown."

Seven-year-old Charlie Knowles added: "I like how it has the lighthouse on and it really shimmers in the sun."

The GlassHouse, based in North Shields, has presented Coquet Park First School, Whitley Bay, with the gift of a 'beautiful' stained glass window (Coquet Park First School)

The designer's daughter Amelia Halliday, seven, said: “We are so lucky to see this every day and even on rainy days we can see sunshine and rainbows.”

Colleen Ward, the headteacher at Coquet Park First School, said: “We are so proud of the children, sharing their ideas to remember our community during the last two years. The generosity shown by The Glasshouse will be remembered by all who visit the school.

“Thank you to the staff who supported the children to generosity, time and skill of everyone including NHS workers and key workers.”

Councillor Pat Oliver, chair of North Tyneside Council unveiled the window during its open ceremony with the pupils and staff. He said: "It has been brilliant to visit this wonderful local school to celebrate the end of term and to see first-hand the beautiful stained-glass window which clearly means so much to the pupils and teachers.

"It's a creation from their imagination and experience and the touching sentiment of thanking those who did so much for us during the pandemic will leave a legacy at the school. Well done to everyone who has been involved."

Local supporters of the school have taken to social media to express their gratitude and joy at the design, having followed the progress of the project on Facebook. The stained glass window is a donation from The GlassHouse, who also created the Stained Glass windows for Whitley Bay Crematorium’s Book of Remembrance Room and are now working with North Tyneside Council to create three stained glass windows for Preston Cemetery.

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