Pupils share a happy dream with their Buddy Bears

Buddy Bear proved an instant hit with youngsters who were given the teddy on their return to school last week.

As reported in last week’s Banner, children at six island primary schools had little bears waiting for them when all primary children returned to classes.

Some were so attached they took them to bed – with one lucky bear even having his own bed made for him.

Buddy Bear is wearing the school values t-shirt and has a friendly poem attached which reads: ‘I’m Buddy Bear, come and share your favourite happy dream, squeeze me tight with all your might, we make a winning team!’

Here are a selection of photographs from around the island of the welcome sight of children back at school, although the schools close for their Easter holidays next Thursday.

Shiskine pupils in class with their Buddy Bears.

Left: The children at Whiting Bay with their Buddy Bears.

Above: A wee Buddy takes a nap in his own sleeping bag, made by a primary two pupil.

Pupils back in class at Whiting Bay Primary School.

Buddy Bear with the poem around his neck.

A ‘Welcome Back ’ sign at Shiskine Primary School.

Shiskine Primary School pupils display their ‘Welcome Back to School’ banner.

Above: Whiting Bay pupils in the playground with their Buddy Bears.

Right: Corrie Primary School pupils pose with their Buddy Bears.

Left: The Buddy Bears wait for their new owners.