Tel: 01833 637029 Email: office@stmarysbc.bhcet.org.uk
Image of Pupils Lead Exciting School Improvement Project at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School
20 October 2026

Pupils Lead Exciting School Improvement Project at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle is delighted to be working in partnership with William Smith to transform its pupil toilet facilities through an exciting, pupil-led improvement project. Through pupil voice activities, the school identified that the current toilet areas were beginning to look dated. As a result, plans are now underway to completely refresh the spaces with new vinyl wraps, creating modern, welcoming environments for all pupils.

Image of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Celebrates Harvest Thanksgiving with the Community
9 October 2026

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Celebrates Harvest Thanksgiving with the Community

Pupils, families and staff at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle came together for a joyful Harvest Thanksgiving celebration, giving thanks for the many blessings of the harvest season. The special gathering featured contributions from every class, with children sharing songs, dances, prayers and poems. Their performances helped create a wonderful atmosphere of gratitude and celebration as the school community reflected on the importance of thankfulness and kindness.

Image of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Pupils Share Stories with Friends at The Manor
5 October 2026

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Pupils Share Stories with Friends at The Manor

Children from Robins class at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle enjoyed a special visit to The Manor, where they spent time sharing some of their favourite stories with residents as part of the National Year of Reading and the school's commitment to "Going All In" with reading. The visit provided a wonderful opportunity for pupils and residents to come together through a shared love of books and storytelling. The children were full of enthusiasm and conversation, chatting about everything from Mrs T’s pink hair and driving the minibus to asking residents how loudly they could whistle. One pupil even sparked smiles and laughter by asking, "Do you know Tesco Tony sometimes comes to my house?"

Image of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Pupils Enjoy Gruffalo Adventure at Hamsterley Forest
5 October 2026

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Pupils Enjoy Gruffalo Adventure at Hamsterley Forest

Children in Robins class at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle enjoyed a fantastic day of outdoor learning during a visit to Hamsterley Forest, where they completed the popular Gruffalo Trail. Inspired by the much-loved story, pupils followed the trail through the forest, exploring the great outdoors while bringing the adventures of Mouse and the Gruffalo to life. The visit gave children the opportunity to immerse themselves in the story's woodland setting while enjoying nature, fresh air and physical activity.

Image of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Community Supports Macmillan Coffee Morning
28 September 2026

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Community Supports Macmillan Coffee Morning

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle would like to thank everyone who joined its Macmillan Coffee Morning and helped support a cause that is close to many hearts. It was wonderful to welcome so many families, friends and members of the school community to the event. Thanks to the generosity of those who attended, the school has already raised more than £200 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Music at St Mary's Primary School, Barnard Castle
22 September 2026

St Mary's Catholic Primary School Pupils Make Strong Progress in Violin Lessons

Young musicians at St Mary's Catholic Primary School, Barnard Castle, are making excellent progress in their weekly violin lessons. The school offers violin tuition to children from Year 2 upwards, giving pupils the opportunity to develop their musical skills, build confidence and learn a new instrument.

Image of St Mary's Catholic Primary School Pupils Celebrate Success at Bowes Show
15 September 2026

St Mary's Catholic Primary School Pupils Celebrate Success at Bowes Show

Children from St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle are celebrating after receiving prizes as winners at this year's Bowes Show. The school was delighted to receive a card thanking the children for their participation and support. The message also praised the high standard of the entries submitted by pupils, commenting on their effort and enthusiasm throughout the event.

Image of St Mary's Catholic Primary School Welcomes Visit from Local Police Officer
8 September 2026

St Mary's Catholic Primary School Welcomes Visit from Local Police Officer

Pupils at St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle were delighted to welcome a special visitor when PC Preet spent time at the school to introduce himself and talk about his role in the local community. The visit gave children the opportunity to learn more about how police officers help keep people safe and support communities every day.

Image of Celebrating Two Fantastic Terms Across BHCET
15 July 2026

Celebrating Two Fantastic Terms Across BHCET

As we come to the end of another successful academic year, we are incredibly proud of everything our pupils, staff and wider school community have achieved over the past two terms. From inspiring classroom learning and creative projects to sporting success, educational visits, performances and community events, there has been so much to celebrate.

Image of St Mary's Strides for Strokes Fundraiser Brings Community Together
15 July 2026

St Mary's Strides for Strokes Fundraiser Brings Community Together

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle was delighted to welcome families, friends and members of the local community to take part in the St Mary's Striding for Strokes fundraiser walk. It was wonderful to see so many people come together in support of the event, creating a fantastic atmosphere while raising money for an important cause.

Image of Little Wrens Celebrate Graduation Day
9 July 2026

Little Wrens Celebrate Graduation Day

There were smiles, proud moments and even a few happy tears as the Little Wrens Class of 2026 celebrated their graduation at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School. The special event was attended by proud parents, grandparents and friends, who gathered to celebrate the children's achievements and the incredible progress they have made throughout the year.

Image of Year 6 Inspired at Festival 2026
7 July 2026

Year 6 Inspired at Festival 2026

Year 6 pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Barnard Castle recently enjoyed a wonderful visit to Festival 2026 at the Emmaus Youth Village. The festival provided an inspiring opportunity for pupils to come together with other young people to celebrate faith through prayer, music, storytelling and shared experiences.