CHILDREN from Wharfe Valley Primary Schools are encouraging links with the European Union in the wake of Brexit.

Three schools currently have flourishing links with Coutances, Ilkley's partner town in Normandy.

Addingham Primary School is in touch with Pont de Soulles, Ben Rhydding Primary School with Jules Verne and Sacred Heart Primary School with Jean-Paul II.

Pupils in Year 4 and 5 classes have been exchanging letters, e-mails, photos and gifts with their partners, with the support of teachers on both sides of the Channel.

Catherine Cheater, teacher and co-ordinator of French teaching in Wharfe Valley Primary Schools, and teachers Juliet Green and Helen Miller have been leading the initiative and are delighted with the results.

Catherine said: “The children are really motivated to learn when they receive letters and messages.

"We hope this motivation will continue and have a positive effect when they reach secondary school and have the opportunity to participate in an exchange.”

Ilkley's Twinning Committee chairman, Judith Dunn, added: “We had hoped that starting with younger children would also encourage families to become involved. It seems to be working.”

In view of the successful visit of the choir La Canterie du Rey to Ilkley in April, hosted by Moornotes, the next civic delegation visit from Coutances is postponed until early May 2017.

It is hoped some primary school teachers might be able to participate, as the weekend includes a public holiday. Judith Dunn would be very glad to hear from any primary schools or other organisations who would like a link with Coutances, and also from anyone interested in hosting Ilkley's visitors in 2017. E-mail at: judithmdunn@gmail.com for further information.

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