Jones Memorial Primary School was delighted to have hosted a 'Narnia Trail' as part of the school's Christmas Celebrations, in lieu of the school's usual Christmas event due to ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

Instead, this year in the lead up to Christmas, staff and pupils were on hand to ensure that visitors to the school were treated to a sparkling outdoor setting inspired by the classic Narnia stories by C.S. Lewis.

On Wednesday, December 15, staff enthusiastically welcomed Michelle McIlveen, Minister for Education, to officially open the trail. She was highly complimentary in her review of the interactive journey, and all present could testify that cutting the ribbon went off with a bang!

MLAs Deborah Erskine and Rosemary Barton were also in situ, accompanied by the school's Chair of the Board of Governors, Anne Beattie.

The Narnia-set story was brought to life by a range of colourful characters as families made their way around the Narnia Trail.

Arriving at a special 'Passport Office', photographs were taken and QR codes shared, which explained the journey ahead that was guaranteed to spark the imaginations of all ages.

Finally, guests were invited to step through a magic wardrobe to transport them into Narnia, into a forest, where they could enter the magical faun Mr. Tumnus’s cave.

Guests were delighted with the sound of Christmas carols and were warmed up with a cup of hot chocolate while they were welcomed by Mr. Tumnus himself, with the faun wearing his bright red scarf.

The tour continued with a visit to The White Witch, who tried to tempt unsuspecting folk with her Turkish Delight.

The White Witch earned her name because she had frozen the Forest of Narnia for 100 years – fortunately, the weather in Fermanagh was very kind to everyone over the three afternoons.

Vice-Principal Roberta Bailie said: "We are thankful for dry calm weather which was fundamental to the success of the project. When the White Witch claimed to be human, she had us all in doubt!"

Guests then moved on to Mrs. Beaver’s cottage, where a heartfelt welcome awaited visitors, greeted with warm shortbread and a hot cup of tea or coffee.

From there, guests passed Aslan The Lion at his table, and went on to a Narnian battle scene where would-be soldiers were provided with swords to tackle lion piñatas.

Ms. Bailie explained: "Luckily, the awe-inspiring Aslan was there to greet everyone. Aslan was a little frightening but his power was unmatched and his goodness unlimited.

"He was very kind and especially good to all who came into his presence."

Visitors also had an opportunity to create their own symbols of power and authority and to wear them home.

Ms. Bailie added: "C.S. Lewis’s book sold more than 100 million copies worldwide. We were delighted to welcome so many family and friends to school to mix the old with the new – QR codes and a classic story were combined to an eclectic mix that showcased our school and the story to maximum effect."

Before leaving the trail, visitors could also meet Santa in a marquee grotto located beside the Forest School, where he and his elves were on hand to make sure that everyone had an opportunity to find out whether they were on his Naughty or Nice List.

One parent remarked: "It was a different and fun way to spend an hour and Jones Memorial Primary School should be proud of what they achieved! I loved the book as a child, and was thrilled to be part of such a creative and well organised trail.

"Our children are so lucky to be part of such a wonderful school.”

Ms. Bailie said: "With no scope for our usual Christmas performance to old capacity crowds over two nights, this was a progressive and exciting concept that was brought to life by all members of staff, pupils and governors, in a combined effort that showcased C.S. Lewis and Jones Memorial Primary School in the most amazing way possible.

"We are grateful to the community for their support and encouragement and we look forward to the next adventure."