Holly puts Headmaster in his place
Six year old becomes Headmistress for the day in charity fundraiser

Six-year-old Holly Bartlett became Headmistress of Twickenham Preparatory School for a day in November thanks to an auction which raised more than £6,000 for The Shooting Star Children's Hospice.

Twickenham Preparatory School Parents' Committee held a cocktail party at Hampton Court Palace Golf Club earlier this year and more than 100 parents, teachers and friends came along. During the event they held an auction for prizes including tickets to Lords, Golf at West Hill Golf Club and a day fishing. One of the more popular items saw parents bid for their child to take over from Headmaster David Malam and Holly's parents claimed the highly sought after prize with the highest bid.

"My Dad woke me up when he got back to tell me what had happened," said Holly. "I was very excited."

The excitement continued on the big day. "The best part of the day was having lunch with the head girls and boys and helping Mr Malam open his post," said Holly. "I also liked teaching Year 5 Maths, having all four break times and only one lesson during the day."

Holly now has her sights set on being a Headmistress one day, although it might not be as straightforward as she thinks. "It was actually quite easy and lots of fun," said Holly. "Everyone one was nice to me."

Holly had a ball being Headmistress, said Mum Shauna. "I think she felt like Christmas had come early!"

"We're really glad Holly enjoyed her day as Headmistress," said Vernon Watts, Community Volunteer Manager at The Shooting Star Children's Hospice. "The cocktail party was a great idea to raise money and it will make a huge difference to families who find themselves in unimaginable circumstances."