Party time as Eastfield Academy celebrates 60th birthday

Eastfield Academy held its 60th birthday celebrations over the course of two special days last week.
Celebrations at Eastfield AcademyCelebrations at Eastfield Academy
Celebrations at Eastfield Academy

On Monday, the Friends of Eastfield welcomed past pupils, parents and the local community for a tour of the academy.

Guests took the opportunity to talk about their time at Eastfield and catch up with old friends and colleagues.

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A memory book was provided for visitors to record their messages and there were plenty of photographs and press cuttings from across the years for everyone to look at.

One former pupil who attended the school in 1975 said: “I was only eight when I came to Eastfield and it’s amazing to see how much has changed.

“It has such a brilliant atmosphere and holds many fond memories for me.”

On Friday, parents were welcomed into the academy to celebrate with their children. Visitors enjoyed the coronation of the May King and Queen, a Maypole dancing display and the burial of the school’s time capsule.

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Each year group performed an iconic dance from different decades, starting from the 1960s. Malcolm Arnold Academy’s choir then closed the event with a short performance.

Staff and pupils were also delighted to welcome radio presenter Helen Blaby to the event.

A former pupil from 1979, Helen presented the whole of her lunchtime show for BBC Northampton live from the academy.

Helen asked the children a range of questions about what it is like to be a pupil at Eastfield Academy, and interviewed Tracey Hamilton, the academy’s associate headteacher.

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During the interview, Mrs Hamilton said: “This is a school that really promotes the whole child and that’s underpinned by the support we get from the trust.”

Speaking about the week of celebrations, Tracey added: “It has been a really lovely week and one that the children have thoroughly enjoyed.

“We are so lucky to have a great community around us and we feel everyone is now closer because of this experience.”