Northampton primary school celebrates 50 years open and the community it has become

A Northampton primary school is celebrating its 50th birthday this week and the community it has become over the past five decades.

Lumbertubs Primary School, in Tonmead Road, has spent the week commemorating the opening in 1972 and educating the pupils on the school’s history.

Headteacher Ceri Cook took on her role 10 years ago after working in other positions at the school, so has seen it transform.

She said: “It is amazing to celebrate our birthday and the children are showing a real sense of excitement.

“It’s the community that has changed the most. We are more diverse now with 18 different languages spoken.

“We’re most proud of the community spirit we’ve fostered. A report from the school’s first headteacher showed how isolated it was, and now we have teachers and staff working here who were once pupils.”

Ceri also said the community, particularly parents and guardians, know they can turn to the school in their times of need and they will be there to support.

When asked to describe the school in just three words, the headteacher referred to their vision “enjoy, respect, achieve”, which they have worked hard to instil.

Looking back, Ceri recalled when the primary was once a lower school and how the addition of two year groups meant the building was extended.

When the school first opened, Weston Favell Shopping Centre and the housing estates around the building did not exist.

The week of celebrations began on Monday (December 5) with a special assembly on the school’s history and the year 1972.

Tuesday (December 6) saw the building decorated with balloon arches and banners, and after an excited arrival from pupils who all wanted photos, they ate birthday cake.

At the end of the week (December 9), parents are being invited in for a choral performance from the whole school and an exhibition on its history.

The songs will all be from the seventies, including ABBA and The Wombles, and the students will be dressed in outfits inspired by the decade or the number 50.

The headteacher says her fondest memories from her time at the school are the choral performances as “everyone comes together”.