Games, photos, music, special visitors and cakes were all part of the celebrations for St Mary’s Bentworth CE Primary School’s 150th anniversary of becoming a church school.

There was a Victorian school session plus tractors in the playground, tours for past teachers and alumni, and two giant ‘150’ cakes. Visitors included people who were pupils in the 1950s and 1960s and those who were educated in the 1990s, providing a rich mixture of stories enjoyed by current pupils.

Head Jo Ayres said: “It was so special to celebrate 150 years of learning with many generations and different parts of our community. The stand-out theme for me was how everyone could see the amazing differences in the development of the school, but everyone could also sense and feel the same great warm, family feel where every child is nurtured and loved. Thank you to everyone, including the Alton Herald Peeps section, for their support.”

Jeff Williams, director of education for the Diocese of Winchester, said: “At this time of ongoing reflection and sadness at the death of the Queen, we are likewise embracing King Charles III’s accession to the throne, and in this context the celebration of the 150th anniversary of St Mary’s Bentworth.

“The school has been at the centre of times of significance for 150 years, and continues to be a hub for the local community which it serves and benefits from in so many ways. This wonderful Church of England school exemplifies all that is good about our offer to children and families of all faiths and none as we serve the common good. We are expectant on how it will continue to be a beacon and touchstone for so many people.”