It is a summer of celebrations at St Andrew’s CE Primary School at Heddon-on-the-Wall, which is marking a special anniversary this year.
Education in the village dates back to the 17th century, when children were taught within the porch at St Andrew’s Church. A purpose-built school was constructed during Victorian times and opened in 1852, before the school moved into its current building 60 years ago in 1953.
Pupils and staff marked the occasion with a special day which included a visit from a live band, which accompanied the children in performing an amazing medley of songs from throughout the decades. The performance included dancing and children singing solos, while staff also joined in the singing.
Headteacher Andrew Wheatley said: “It was a very memorable day and it was a lot of fun. Some of our former headteachers joined us, as did our local MP Guy Opperman and David Street, Northumberland County Council’s director of education, and the Revd Rachel Scheffer.
“The history of our school and education here is important. This was a great way to mark it and the children can remember many of the songs from the day.”
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he Revd Rachel Scheffer said: "The celebrations have been absolutely wonderful. What we adults experienced was our children celebrating in true style that they are part of something much bigger than themselves.
“They celebrated their gifts and talents and all the children and staff that have gone before them. They celebrated being part of the community and church both locally and further afield. They celebrated the history of our musical culture and they celebrated being part of the school's story.
“Listening to a variety of songs from across the decades from the 1960's until the present day really showed off one of St. Andrew's School's greatest gifts...their gift in music and performance."