CHILDREN and staff at one Dunstable school really do have a golden opportunity for celebrations.
For Watling Lower School, in Bull Pond Lane, is marking its 50th birthday.
The school would love to hear from past pupils and staff who would like to join in a reunion day.
On May 1, 1962, the school began life as Bull Pond Lane School, under headmaster Mr F. W. Young.
And the first term ended with this log book entry: “We have made a very promising start in the new building and the interest and enthusiasm of both pupils and staff augurs well for the future.”
In September 1962, the school became Watling County Primary School.
Pupil numbers steadily rose. In 1974, after changes in the education system, Watling became a lower school, for ‘rising fives’ to nine-year-olds.
The then head, Mr R. D. Linger, wrote: “Today sees the end of this school as a 7-11 junior school.”
Extension work to improve facilities has changed the school physically, too.
A striking display about the school has been on show in the vacant ‘homedepot’ unit in The Quadrant Shopping Centre, in Dunstable.
A week of celebrations, also marking the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, begins at the school on July 9.
Past pupils and staff have an open invitation to join in the school’s reunion day on Tuesday, July 10.
They can call the school on 01582 662232 or email watling@cbc.beds.sch.uk.
Old photographs will be on show, there will be afternoon tea and a time capsule will be buried.
Current head Susan Penglase said: “Everyone is proud that the school is 50 years old.
“The community spirit of the school is very special.”
On May 1, the anniversary date, Dunstable mayor Councillor Claire Meakins-Jell joined the school for birthday cake all round.
At assembly, she answered questions about her civic role. And she was given flowers and a tour of the school.
Pupils celebrated with a party that afternoon.
