A VILLAGE primary school has marked its diamond anniversary with a celebration for pupils and staff past and present.

Barton Stacey Church of England Primary School celebrated its 60th birthday on Tuesday with a party that showcased the learning, singing and musical talents of current pupils.

Guests were also given the opportunity to walk down memory lane or learn something new as a display was made which detailed how the school has changed from its beginnings on the current site in 1958.

The evening was enjoyed by members of the community, with a number of former members of staff, former parents and former pupils on site to celebrate this special occasion and share their fond memories connected to the school.

The mayor of Test Valley Councillor Ian Carr, and his wife Beryl were also in attendance to mark the milestone.

Before the occasion the oldest children in the school have worked closely with the Barton Stacey History Group to begin producing a book which details the 60-year history of the school and this was on show during the evening; it is anticipated that it will be published in the next academic year.

Classes were also able to exhibit their learning from this term, focusing on the key questions: Where in the world are we?; How has London changed?; What are the major habitats of the world and how have the fauna and flora adapted to their habitats?; and How has life changed in the past 60 years?

Children from the junior classes sold upcycled photo frames on the evening as part of a business enterprise challenge and families could enjoy both the new Outdoor Learning Zone in the school grounds and a hidden story corner.

The evening concluded with Hilary Brewster, executive headteacher of The Dever Valley Federation to which the school belongs, thanking those who had travelled far and wide to celebrate with the school and thanking staff for helping to make the night such a huge success.

And the all-important birthday cake was enjoyed by all.

Head of school Lee Stangroom was tasked with cutting the cake alongside the oldest child in the school, Heidi Burnett from Year 6 and the youngest child in the school, Mary Frost from Year R.