The British School In The Netherlands

The key feature of the new Helen Sharman School site is space.  This is demonstrated by the on-site gymnasium, additional areas for individual and small group teaching, a large central atrium and an inner garden.  The playground area has doubled in size and even the very youngest children have their own access to specialist outdoor provision for creative playtimes.  The whole feeling of the school is community focused and the increased space for offices, staffrooms and parent facilities reinforces that.

Michala Warner, Head Teacher, explained “It has taken two years of hard work to get to this point, but it has been worth it. The staff have worked so well as a team to make sure that all is ready for the new term.  The children are certainly thriving in their new environment”

The opening ceremony was an all-day affair with guest of honour, British scientist and former astronaut, Helen Sharman OBE, attending for the day.  In May 1991, Helen was part of the Soyuz mission Project Juno and became the first British person in space.  Helen’s links with the school are ongoing and very strong – she regularly visits and works with all the pupils and staff. 

Guests to the ceremony were welcomed by the sounds of the Rosamunde Quintet and an introduction from Head Teacher, Michala Warner.  A time capsule containing artefacts and mementoes of 2008 was buried in the inner garden beneath a tree donated by the Graham family who recently left the Helen Sharman School to attend another BSN Junior School in The Hague.

The children welcomed guests in their own languages and performed their school song. Dr Martin Coles, the new CEO & Principal of The British School in The Netherlands, welcomed children, parents and guests. To end the ceremony, a bronze statue, designed and made by KS2 children was unveiled to commemorate the opening of the new school.

Children from the School Council proudly showed guests around their new spacious environment.