US official visits the school that 'sparkles'
Netherton Moss has been involved in the UK-USA Fulbright Teacher Exchange Programme and the ambassador, Philip Lader, visited the school to see the programme in operation.
Miss Fiona Westwell, from Netherton Moss, has exchanged schools with Mrs Pat Firch from Tacoma in Washington state. Miss Westwell is now teaching First Graders in Tacoma while Mrs Firch is teaching Years 1 and 2 at Netherton Moss.
It is an invaluable experience for both teachers and their respective schools to take part in such a scheme. Mrs Firch has brought her husband and son with her so her family are experiencing a whole new way of life for twelve months.
The visit of the ambassador was the highlight of this exchange and everyone at school was very excited at the prospect, especially Mrs Firch.
The ambassador spent longer than his scheduled time in school, visiting classrooms and talking to the children. He also officially opened the Parent’s Room and signed a special certificate to commemorate the event.
Mr Lader said that he thoroughly enjoyed his visit and that Netherton Moss was a school that "sparkled". He was also impressed to see the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Programme in operation.
After the visit, Mrs Firch said that she was honoured to have been able to talk with the ambassador and shake his hand. She also felt that it was great to meet a fellow American, especially one from Washington DC.
All in all, it was a day that will live long in the memories of those at Netherton Moss. Perhaps for some children in the Reception Classes, it was more exciting to see the ambassador’s chauffeur and his large black Cadillac, than the Ambassador himself!
However, for everyone else who got the chance to meet and talk with Mr Lader, it certainly was a day not to be forgotten.
