More than 1,000 pupils representing 41 schools attended a huge Year 6 leavers' assembly at Blackburn Cathedral. 
 
Rt Rev. Philip North, Bishop of Blackburn, was at the Cathedral to welcome the children to the Diocesan Board of Education event.
 
The Bishop was joined by Christian performer and singer/songwriter Chip Kendall who officially opened the event.
 
Lisa Fenton, primary schools adviser, led the children in an activity where they brought decorated cardboard boxes to the front of the cathedral and were helped to build a ‘wall of prayer’.
 
Bishop Philip told the audience: “Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
 
He added: “Have a big vision, a tight focus, tough courage and love for everyone.”
 
Iain Parks, Diocesan Director of Education, said: “The service was a profound celebration of our primary school pupils' achievements and their limitless potential.

"As we gathered, we not only honoured their journey but also prayerfully prepared them for their roles as future 'world changers’.
 
“The sight of 1,000 young people uniting in celebration, worship, and growth was truly inspiring.

"The spirit of unity and purpose displayed gives us great hope for the positive change these young individuals, empowered by faith and community support, will bring to their future schools and beyond.”
 
Lisa added: “It was such a joy to worship with so many members of our Church School family and send them off to High School with the words of the Gospel ringing in their ears, a wooden cross in their pockets and a Good News New Testament in their hands. 

"Chip Kendall was great; his modern music and enthusiastic style got everybody dancing including Bishop Philip!”