Sandelford thank '˜mystery men'

Today we can reveal how the generosity of two mystery gentlemen has touched the hearts of staff and youngsters of Sandelford School in Coleraine.

Children from the Butterflies class, along with their teacher Catherine McLean, recently enjoyed a school trip to the Sizzling Sausage restaurant between Coleraine and Ballymoney as part of their social skills curriculum.

However when a member of staff went to pay the bill they found out that two lovely gentlemen, who were sitting behind the class group, had already paid the bill.

Pupils and staff were overwhelmed by the kindness of the men, who not only displayed a lovely act of human kindness, but also showed an acceptance of the young people, which is the biggest gift of all to all in Sandelford.

Principal Sharon Tennent told The Coleraine Times: “The staff member tried to get some contact details but the men wished to remain anonymous.

“ We felt that we had to find some way to let them know how much their kindness meant to us.

“So whoever you are a really big thank you from all at Sandelford.”

Sharon added: “In Sandelford we meet the needs of young people from 3 – 19 years of age, all of whom have severe and/or complex needs and it is really important to us that our young people are not only seen within the local community but are also accepted as being able to play a valuable role.

“We would also like to say a really big thank you to the Sizzling Sausage who always go out of their way to make all of our young people feel welcome and ensure the needs of our pupils are catered for.”

Caring for the children is paramount to the staff at Sandelford.

During an inspection by the Education and Training. Inspectorate, the quality of the arrangements for pastoral care a Sandelford was described at “outstanding. “

The inspectors added: “The school has a verygood caring ethos and strong commitment to the welfare of the pupils and the staff. “

So if you know these mystery gentlemen do get in touch with The Coleraine Times and we can put them in touch with the school.

Call our news desk on 028 703 57610.