Pupils from Year 6 at Dhoon School have recently accepted an invitation to visit Government House.
The Isle of Man’s Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney, was guest of honour at Dhoon School’s 140th anniversary celebration in July and extended an invite to the pupils to visit Government House in the autumn term to have a look around and to find out about the role of the Lieutenant Governor.
His Excellency welcomed Headteacher Max Kelly, class teacher Anthony Cross and pupils from Class 4 on Wednesday afternoon. The visit began with a talk from His Excellency followed by a question and answer session. The pupils were then invited to take part in a quiz before refreshments and a run around in the spacious grounds of Government House – usually reserved for garden parties and other official functions rather than an extended school playing field!
His Excellency said:
'Seeing Dhoon School in July was a vivid experience. Welcoming them to Government House 3 months later was as much fun all over again. Dhoon School children are charming.'
Headteacher Mr Kelly commented:
'This was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to visit an important building in the Isle of Man. We were all amazed that His Excellency took the time to personally talk to us and show the pupils around – and for that we are most grateful.'
Pupil Josh Caine said:
'It was great fun. The food was delicious. The best part of the trip was doing the quiz and the time we spent outside. The most interesting thing we learned was that the Island is autonomous but not independent.'
Photo: Headteacher Max Kelly (back, left), class teacher Anthony Cross (back, right) pictured with Dhoon School's Year 6 pupils and Sir Richard Gozney (front, middle.)
The school hope to return to Government House next year with a different group of pupils.
