On the 31st October, local primary school John Locke Academy in Uxbridge lined their pathways with several dozen pumpkins, personalized by their very own students. This was due to an annual Halloween tradition of the school, which encourages students to bring in their own large and orange vegetables, festooned with decorations of their choice.

The academy, rated Ofsted ‘Outstanding’, was only opened in 2014 and has students just up to Year 4, though already has begun yearly events to bring students together. It began with just a few pumpkins brought in, although this year the entryway to the primary school was flooded with creations across all year groups.  One Year 3 pupil said, “it’s so fun to make the pumpkins! I love being able to see what I made when I walk to school”. Many parents also agree it is a great way to have fun and give a contribution to the school, whilst being a unique opportunity to showcase any artistic gifts.

Due to only being established 4 years ago, the primary school is noticeably not as large as those in the rest of Hillingdon. This seems to serve in its favour however, since the pupils alongside parents participate in several events and special occasions throughout the academic year and grow as a school community constantly. What they lack in numbers, they seem to certainly make up for in good values and success, mostly down to a collection of valuable staff and resources – seen by many as key assets to John Locke.

The site of the school lays where RAF Uxbridge previously stood, which encourages the school to appreciate the area’s history. It also stands just metres from Uxbridge’s Battle of Britain bunker, where hundreds played a key part within history to have victory in World War 2. After just a few years, the primary school has flourished into a successful space for children to learn and prosper – they must have something in the soil.