YEAR 7 pupils at a Basingstoke school had a first day of term like no other today (September 2) as they were transported to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory.

The Costello School decided to welcome its new students in style with a themed transition day based on the famous tale of Charlie and his golden ticket, by Roald Dahl. 

In July, the more than 250 new starters from 20 primary schools across the borough were each given a secondary school welcome pack, which contained a golden ticket. 

They brought them along to Costello this morning for their first day, and were met with a school hall transformed into their very own chocolate factory.

Staff had dressed as characters from the popular story, including headteacher Randall Jull as Willy Wonka, and lots of Oompa Loompas who handed out sweets. 

Basingstoke Gazette: Staff dressed the part, including headteacher Randall Jull and head of Y7 Tracey JoyStaff dressed the part, including headteacher Randall Jull and head of Y7 Tracey Joy

A balloon modelling man was on hand to entertain the pupils, and staff had spent hours creating  the chocolate river, glass elevator, trees, and flowers, adorned with candy and chocolate, and a stunning flower wall courtesy of The Wallflower of Hampshire. 

Throughout the day, pupils took part in themed lessons, including writing their own Willy Wonka inspired stories in English, designing their own sweets in art, and figuring out the chocolate factory’s finances in mathematics.

Mr Jull told the Gazette: “We are a big school. We take over 250 students from over 20 primaries and we know that for some that transition period can be really daunting. We therefore try and make the first few days as enjoyable as possible.”

He continued: “Especially this year, with the 18 months that they have been through, its important that this love is as seamless as possible. We always pick something literary based. It was very successful two years ago with Harry Potter, this year is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and who knows next year, the world is our oyster!”
Sending a message to new Year 7s, Mr Jull added: “Do your best.We are going to make it successful for you, while keeping you safe. So have fun, because that’s what it should be about.” 

Basingstoke Gazette: Students Freddie, Immy, Amaya and EthanStudents Freddie, Immy, Amaya and Ethan

And as the students filtered in, it was clear they were impressed by the vast array of decorations and activities.

One new starter, Amaya, said: “It felt like Christmas!  We didn’t expect this.”

Another Y7 pupil, Immy, added: “It is magical. I’m so excited.”