A PRIMARY school is marking its 150th birthday with a history exhibition and service of thanksgiving.

Northleach C of E Primary School is approaching the milestone having been founded on its present site in 1874, when Lord Sherborne granted the land to build a school for local children.

Over the years, around 2,500 pupils have been educated at the school, led by just 13 headteachers.

To celebrate the anniversary, a 150-year history exhibition will take place at the school on Friday, June 28 from 3.30pm to 5pm and Saturday, June 29 from 12pm to 5pm to coincide with Northleach Charter Fair.

All are welcome, with past pupils and staff members actively encouraged to attend.

Commenting on the event, Kathy Ellison, who is organising the anniversary celebrations, said: “2024 is the 150th anniversary, a milestone worth marking and celebrating.

“We have been digging into the school archives, meeting with ex-pupils and sifting through a wonderful collection of photographs, both old and recent, to pull together a picture of life at the school.

“One local resident, Enid Sly, was a pupil from 1926 to 1936 and subsequently a teacher from 1936 to 1981.

“Her wonderful, detailed memories are invaluable to the collection and for future posterity and can be viewed at this exhibition.”

Current headteacher Kirsty Williams said: “New buildings and equipment have clearly been added, but the old Victorian building still remains at the core of the school, and we are proud the same Christian values drive the culture today.

“The school will celebrate with a special service of thanksgiving in the town’s beautiful wool church of St Peter & St Paul on the morning of Friday, June 28.

“Holding this weekend of celebrations will and does underpin what the school has stood for and what it will in the future.”

Kathy is still taking contributions and information for the exhibition such as school reports, books, trophies, event programmes, photographs and other items.

If you have any relevant material or special memories of the school, contact kathy.ellison@gmail.com For more information, visit facebook.com/northleachschoolhistory