A METAL sculpture of a tree has been officially unveiled at a north Durham primary school.

Sculptor James Anderson returned to St Pius X RC School in The Grove, Consett, for the event earlier today. (Wednesday, March 11)

The tree is on display in the school reception and was designed with the help of pupils.

Headteacher Joanne Cruise said: “The children have enjoyed working on this project and seeing their ideas transformed into this beautiful work of art.

“During the process of writing the school’s mission statement, pupils discussed the importance and relevance of our school logo which incorporates two crossed keys.

“The children came up with their own ideas on the significance of the cross keys and these ideas were incorporated into a design.

“James came along to the school and met with the pupils and incorporated their ideas into the sculpture.”

The tree has branches with signs for the keys to the kingdom of God, success, open hearts, forgiveness and knowledge.

Ms Cruise added: “The creative process was exciting and there was a real buzz around school as the children worked on their designs.

“The sculpture itself has brought great excitement to the school. The children have a great sense of ownership.”