Pupils enjoy magical history tour at school

Pupils have turned back the clock to celebrate Barkisland School's 150th birthday.
Pupils from Barkisland School on their Victorian DayPupils from Barkisland School on their Victorian Day
Pupils from Barkisland School on their Victorian Day

Students took part in a range of activities to mark the anniversary, including a Victorian day, and created special works of art looking back on the history of the school, some parts of which are Grade II listed.

Headteacher Becky Schofield said: “We had an open week which included our Key Stage one pupils producing a mosaic which will be displayed in the school.

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“Our Key Stage two pupils worked with an artist to produce a map of Barkisland now and as it was back then.

“We also had a local historian and author Flora Smithies coming in to launch her book about the history of the school, which is available to buy at Barkisland Post Office. Our local Bishop was also in school to unveil the artwork. “We also posted leaflets throughout the community asking for any local residents who went to the school to come in and share their memories.

“Our Victorian Day saw everyone dressed up in Victorian clothing, having a Victorian lunch and taking part in old-fashioned classes like laundry and handwriting.

“There were also art workshops and other activities, with children making sugar mice and drawing sketches of the school now and then.”

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Each pupil received a commemorative pen and bookmark, and on May 12, there will be a black tie event at The Venue to celebrate the anniversary.

“I think it’s a really special time for the school community and it’s great for these pupils to be here at this time in the school’s history,” added Becky.

“Obviously education has moved on massively, but some issues are still the same, like trying to recruit staff and dealing with inspections. “Things do move with the times though. One of the adverts from back then was for a headmaster, but he had to be a married man and have a wife or a daughter who was qualified teacher and could teach children sewing.”