SANDFORD School celebrated its 200th anniversary with a celebration event on Wednesday, July 2.

Some of those who gathered for the celebration including former staff, pupils and one youngster, believed to be a fifth generation to attend the school.  AQ 5514
Some of those who gathered for the celebration including former staff, pupils and one youngster, believed to be a fifth generation to attend the school. AQ 5514 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Former pupils, some who left the school only recently and some who are now in their 80s and 90s were among those who went along to the celebration.

Many former staff also attended.

Everyone was welcomed by the Head of School Hannah Fee who said it was an “extraordinary milestone in the life of our school, 200 years, what an incredible achievement” and “testament to the strength, resilience and enduring spirit of this school and its community”.

She said it was no ordinary school, adding: “Ours is a place full of stories, memories, a rich tapestry of experiences woven across two centuries. Generations of children have walked through these gates, learning, growing, making friends and building the foundations of their futures.”

Looking at old photos brought back memories for former Sandford School pupils Carol Furze and Dave Sims.  AQ 5531
Looking at old photos brought back memories for former Sandford School pupils Carol Furze and Dave Sims. AQ 5531 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Bob Wright pointing to an image of himself in a 1950’s photo of his class at Sandford School.  AQ 5495
Bob Wright pointing to an image of himself in a 1950’s photo of his class at Sandford School. AQ 5495 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

“Teachers and staff have dedicated themselves year after year to nurturing young minds and hearts.”

She also commented on the support from parents, carers, governors and the community.

Current pupils and parents and friends of the school also attended.

The celebration included children singing a selection of songs from this year’s school performances and of a new Sandford School Song, written especially by local resident Andy Hitchcock.

Visiting classrooms brought back memories for former pupils at Sandford School’s 200th celebrations.  AQ 5553
Visiting classrooms brought back memories for former pupils at Sandford School’s 200th celebrations. AQ 5553 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Children sang songs as part of the Sandford School 200th celebrations.  AQ 5500
Children sang songs as part of the Sandford School 200th celebrations. AQ 5500 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

There was an exhibition including many photographs over the years. Many enjoyed looking and reminiscing about their time at the school.

Memorable occasions were recorded including when considerable damage was caused to the school during a storm.

There was also displays of projects about the history of the school which had been completed by each current class.

Visiting classrooms brought back memories for former pupils at Sandford School’s 200th celebrations.  AQ 5553
Visiting classrooms brought back memories for former pupils at Sandford School’s 200th celebrations. AQ 5553 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
The celebration cake made by Teaching Assistant Katarzyna Janecka was enjoyed at Sandford School birthday.  AQ 5494
The celebration cake made by Teaching Assistant Katarzyna Janecka was enjoyed at Sandford School birthday. AQ 5494 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Classrooms could be visited and going along brought back many memories.

A celebration cake made by Teaching Assistant Katarzyna Janecka was cut.

A new school flag was also unveiled.

Catching up at Sandford School’s 200th birthday.  AQ 5519
Catching up at Sandford School’s 200th birthday. AQ 5519 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Refreshments were also enjoyed.

Hannah said afterwards that she was “overwhelmed” by the success of the celebration.

Looking at old photos at Sandford School 200th birthday.  AQ 5559
Looking at old photos at Sandford School 200th birthday. AQ 5559 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Sandford School.  AQ 5556
Sandford School. AQ 5556 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)