SMILES returned to the faces of pupils, parents and teachers of ‘saved’ St Andrew’s School yesterday as they celebrated for the second time.

After being told in September that Education did not want to close it, the school was left uncertain of its future after it was made apparent that the States would have a final say on the matter.

However, a vote of 29 to 18, ensured that the school would remain a fixture in the parish.

At a special family assembly held for Loud Tie Day, there was obvious jubilation among children, parents and staff. Outside the school gates, children ran around excitedly and celebrated with mums and dads.

‘I am very relieved and delighted,’ said Lois Falla, who has two sons at the school.

‘I was very confident before the debate started. I listened to the whole thing. There were 34 speakers, which made me question the way we debate.

‘Most of the deputies had probably made up their minds before they arrived. It would be interesting to see how many voted the way they had decided to.’