NEW pupils at a school in Ascot will be among the first to work towards a new diploma.

Ten children joined LVS Ascot, in London Road, started their education career on Wednesday, September 5, forming the Reception class at the Infant and Junior School.

As well as experiencing school for the first time, they will also be taking part in a brand new initiative introduced by the independent all-ability school: the LVS Ascot Junior School Diploma.

In addition, they have already enjoyed the school's £820,000 dining hall refurbishment which was unveiled last week.

Each section of the new diploma is linked to a pair of the LVS values and skills: curiosity and creativity, resilience and risk-taking, empathy and reflection, initiative and independence and collaboration and self-confidence.

The unique course will fully embed the values and skills into pupils’ way of life from Reception class right up to Year 6 so they can build character qualities and develop key life skills, with diplomas presented at the end of their final year before moving up to LVS Ascot senior school.

Criteria will include items such as learning to play an instrument, contributing to school council meetings and cooking a meal for their families.

Head of LVS Ascot Infant and Junior School Rachael Cox said: “Our aim is to deliver a unique and vibrant education that inspires young people to exceed their expectations. The Junior School Diploma will reinforce that and help develop our pupils."

The dining hall has undergone a complete makeover, with a 20 per cent increase in size to comfortably accommodate the school's 850 pupils, along with new furniture, booth seating, and an increase in natural lighting thanks to the insertion skylights and slimline aluminium windows.

LVS Ascot Principal Christine Cunniffe said: “We are continually looking to improve our facilities to provide the best learning environment so our students can maximise their achievements. Last September we opened a new sixth form centre and last week’s unveiling of the new dining hall drew equally high praise from students. The outstanding facilities on offer to students here really do provide superb support to help them excel and develop."