THIS week Taunton’s Bishop Henderson Primary School celebrated its 50th birthday “in style” with a special visit from one of its first ever alumni who is also a "successful" children's author.
The Church of England school, located in Galmington, opened in 1974 and staff and pupils hosted a series of events recently to mark its half century.
Among the highlights were the children building a replica of the whole school from Lego, while "renowned" children’s author Emma Carroll, who was among the very first pupils to go to Bishop Henderson, visited to share her early memories and inspire young writers.
Head teacher Rachel White said: “What an amazing time we had together celebrating 50 years of Bishop Henderson.
“Thank you to everyone who supported us, from the staff and Friends group for their hard work and help, to the pupils and wider school community for their enthusiasm, donations and for sharing wonderful memories.
“The school has always felt like one big family and it was really special to experience the love and warmth people have for the school across the generations.”
Other events throughout the day saw everyone at the school add their fingerprint as a leaf to a specially drawn tree, while the school hall was transformed into an exhibition displaying photographs and memorabilia chronicling the school’s history that was opened to the public.
The whole school gathered in nearby St Michael’s Church for a commemorative service where they were joined by the Archdeacon of Taunton, the school’s adult choir and invited guests.
The service saw the premiere of the school’s new anthem “This is our school”, written by Mrs White with help from year six pupils, and the sharing of “50 things we love about Bishop Henderson” based on more than 200 responses received from pupils and staff, past and present.
Four of the school’s five head teachers – Hedley King, Tracey Khodabandehloo, Ed Gregory, and Mrs White – were on hand to cut a birthday cake, while the week of events culminated in a 1970s-themed day and a ceremonial tree planting.
More than £900 was also raised in donations towards new books for the library.
Last year, the school got an early birthday present from Ofsted who classed it a Good school where teachers are ambitious for pupils while supporting them to flourish and grow.
The report praised the school’s strong sense of community and the kindness and care of the staff. It found pupils polite and well mannered, highlighting a positive and respectful culture and clear expectations for behaviour.
In the Ofsted parent survey, every single one of the 105 respondents said they would recommend the school to another parent, while 98% said their child does well at the school.
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