BABY Theo Henry Ramsden has been given the perfect start to his school career — albeit a little early.

The five-month-old was christened at Canon Slade School, which his mother hopes he will attend as a pupil in 11 years’ time.

Yesterday’s occasion was also special because it was the first christening to be held at the Bradshaw school.

Mum Carolyn, aged 42, chose the unusual venue because of the family’s links with Canon Slade School.

Her 16-year-old daughter, Levi, studied there and her other daughter Ellie, aged 13, is currently a pupil there.

The Ramsden family also has a good relationship with the school’s chaplain, the Rev Paul Wallington.

Mrs Ramsden, who lives with her family in Darwen, said: “Mr Wallington was the vicar at the church I attend. He became close to the family and is a friend. When he moved to the school, he was a great support to my daughters.

“He was the one I wanted to perform the christening of Theo. So I asked if it was possible to have the christening in the school chapel.

“I was delighted when he said the it could go ahead. It was even more special to have the ceremony at the school which my daughters attend and where I hope Theo will eventually go. It is thrilling that Theo is the first to be christened in the beautiful chapel. ”

Around 60 relatives and friends of the Ramsdens attended the baptism in the school’s Millennium Chapel.

It was built in 2004 , at a cost of £760,000, which was met mainly through parental contributions. It was built to replace a pre-fabricated chapel that had stood in the school grounds for 30 years.

The new chapel can accommodate up to 300 people. It has a large worship room and a small side chapel which are used daily for assemblies and services.

Mr Wallington said: “Where exceptional circumstances apply, we do have permission to baptise children in the school chapel.

“In this particular instance, we were delighted to host Theo’s baptism.”