An exciting discovery and extraordinary piece of local history has been uncovered at a County Durham primary school during the construction of a new purpose-built nursery building. While carrying out groundworks, builders revealed a hidden WWII air raid shelter, preserved beneath the foundations for more than 80 years.
Discovery at St Godric's Catholic Primary School
The discovery at St Godric's Catholic Primary School in Thornley, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, offers pupils, staff and the wider community a rare glimpse into the past at the very moment the school is investing in its future. The shelter, believed to have been used by local families and possibly schoolchildren during wartime air raids, has sparked excitement and curiosity across the school.
Year 3 pupil Joshua said: "I was shocked because we have been walking over this for years. I think it is really cool."
Headteacher's Reaction
Headteacher Julie Hill said: "The timing of this discovery amplified the excitement amongst the children. On the very same day, our pupils had been to the Roman Fort Arbeia [in South Shields] and had been exploring themselves like archaeologists. What a wonderful discovery."
New Nursery Development
The new purpose-built nursery, which is now well underway, is due to open autumn 2026. It will offer 15- and 30-hour places, initially for children from three years, and provide a safe, inspiring and modern learning environment for the school's youngest pupils. The unexpected historical find has added a unique dimension to the project, blending heritage with progress in a way few schools experience.
