Pilgrims welcome back familiar face as volunteer

The Pilgrims family have been delighted to welcome back a familiar face after a former pupil returned as a volunteer to support the next generation of children through our wraparound care.

James Wheeler may have flown the nest after graduating from Pilgrims in 2018, but he hasn’t gone far as he is now working towards his GCSES at fellow Harpur Trust school, Bedford Modern School.

The 13-year-old is volunteering with us until July as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and has been a wonderful addition to our Owls wraparound care team, entertaining the children and supporting staff members who he remembers from his own time in Owls and Pilgrims holiday clubs.

James said: “I really like coming to Pilgrims – it reminds me of all the fun times I’ve had here.

“I enjoy playing with the children, especially Top Trumps as that’s my favourite game.” 

The walk down memory lane has also reminded James of the ways that Pilgrims has aided his own personal development.

That includes preparing him well for his assessments at the other Harpur Trust schools, particularly in writing. 

He said: “The Pilgrims teachers really helped build my confidence, as did the extracurricular activities after school, and the good discipline I learned here really helps me stay focused and not get distracted easily.

“The atmosphere was always lively and fun, and I really liked that the school was colourful and bright.

“My fondest memory is the Hindleap trip in Year 2 – it was my first time away from home. It was a bit scary at first, but I got used to it and then had lots of fun with my friends who I still keep in touch with – and I really enjoyed going through the muddy tunnels on the obstacle course.”

Mrs Pinnock, our Wraparound Care Manager, said it has been brilliant welcoming James back to the school. 

She said: “He is an absolute delight and a shining example of the amazing community of Pilgrims’ alumni. 

“It’s been a pleasure catching up with him, and I feel so proud to see how grown up and confident he is.

“Both the children, teachers and staff have really enjoyed his company and we all wish him well as he looks to achieve his Duke of Edinburgh Award.” 

Parents and carers who would like to learn about our wraparound care services can find more information here.