By Isle of Wight Observer
More than 40 children, along with parents, grandparents and carers, gathered in Rylstone Gardens, Shanklin, for the annual CatURpillars Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Graduation Ceremony.
Held on a sunny Friday at the end of term, the event offered fun and celebration, with children enjoying their picnics, outdoor toys, crafts and a treasure hunt among the flowerbeds.
The CatURpillars group usually meets on Friday mornings, at Shanklin United Reformed Church, and the graduation picnic marks an important milestone for children moving on to school in September.
This year, 11 children graduated, receiving a certificate and wearing a traditional mortar board to celebrate their time with the group. Some will go on to local primary schools, while others will begin home-schooling.
Group leader, Janet Harley, said: “The weather was perfect, the children loved the treasure hunt, special craft activity and, of course, our ever-popular singing at the end. It’s always sad to say goodbye to our older children, some of whom have been with us since birth, but we’re proud to have played a part in their early years.”
CatURpillars will now take a summer break, returning in September for a new term of sessions.