THE community shop in Spreyton is always on the look out for new volunteers to help with the running of the shop. And there are no age limits to volunteering. 

So when the children of Spreyton Primary School let it be known they were interested in doing their bit, no time was lost in securing their services. 

Year 6 students have been filling a regular Thursday morning slot over the last few weeks. And it is no easy ride.

Coinciding with the visiting Post Office and the weekly community coffee morning in the village hall, which includes the Milk on the Moove mobile coffee van, their shift is one of the busiest of the whole week.

Undaunted, the children have been tackling all the tasks involved with great enthusiasm including serving the customers, accepting deliveries and managing the stock.

Spreyton Primary School Year 6 students Suzan Dack and Jack Short managing the Thursday morning rush hour with ease, at Spreyton Village Community Shop.
Spreyton Primary School Year 6 students Suzan Dack and Jack Short managing the Thursday morning rush hour with ease, at Spreyton Village Community Shop. (Chris Dack)

Shop Manager Bella Snook is delighted with the school helping out.  “We have had a number of older children working with us recently, quite often associated with the volunteering and community side of their Duke of Edinburgh award. 

“But it is lovely to see the younger children getting involved too and helping out within their community.”

Emma Donne, Head of School at Spreyton, explained: “ It's such a good experience for our Year 6 children. So many life skills practiced and great to be out and about in our community. 

“This is a good example of how we strive to enhance our children’s time here at Spreyton, giving them chances to explore beyond our normal academic curriculum.”