PUPILS at Grange Church of England Primary School wore sixties-inspired outfits to mark the 50th anniversary of being at the site on Fell Drive.

The fancy dress day was one in a line of events and activities which have been held to celebrate the milestone.

Past pupils and staff members were also invited back to the school, where they were served afternoon tea by the parent-teacher association.

Head teacher Phillipa Summers said: “Some of the children came in and talked to the visitors. They asked them questions and the children were really praised for how eloquent they were.”

Mrs Summers said the children had been learning about what life was like 50 years ago, as well as about the Moon landing, which took place the same year the Fell Drive site was opened.

Other activities have included orienteering around the school and a ‘pie and peas’ night with a disco.

There are also plans to make a ‘time capsule’ to put into the school’s attic.

The children have therefore been discussing things which they think represent life today. Suggestions have ranged from the modern - Minecraft and yoghurt-coated skittles - through to traditional pastimes such as Lego and scouting.

Eight-year-old George Evans, many of whose relatives also went to the school, enjoyed learning about its past.

“I found it interesting because it was built up while people were in the school,” he said.

Both his parents attended Grange CE, and he had the chance to see pictures of them when they were younger.

“I found it funny because they looked different!” he said.

The school, which now has 155 pupils (including the nursery), was completely opened at its current site in 1969.

It had outgrown its previous Kents Bank Road location of 105 years - where Tesco Express is now situated - but the moving of children to Fell Drive was staggered.

Talking about her experiences at the school since become headteacher in 2012, Mrs Summers said: “It is a fantastic place to work because it’s such a strong community and because it’s so supportive. The children here are enthusiastic and keen to learn more about their school and changes in the town.”