Chance to say fond farewell to old Chester school buildings

Former pupils, staff and neighbours of St Thomas of Canterbury CE Junior and Victoria Infant schools in Chester are being invited back to their old schools to say goodbye to the buildings before they are demolished.

The school site, on Walpole Street, Chester, is being transformed into the new Chester Blue Coat CE Primary School complex, due to open in March.

The former Victoria Infant School, (originally called Victoria First School), which was built in the 1970s, and the St Thomas building which dates from the mid 19th century, are to make way for sports pitches in the new year.

To mark the end of an era all past pupils, parents and teachers are invited to a celebration event on Friday, 25 January, from 7-9pm.

Former headteachers Trish McGuirk and Ian Newton will be among those sharing their memories at the evening, which will include photo displays around both buildings, ‘memory rooms’ where tales can be recounted, and entertainment from the Cheshire Schools’ Concert Band.

The community-focused schools boasted several generations of families attending, with many current pupils’ parents and grandparents having started their own education at the site.

Year 4 teacher Helen Peters has been researching the former buildings and their history, and has discovered many photos, anecdotes and fascinating facts.

Former pupils and staff have also attended a history lesson to share their memories of the school during interviews with the children.

Everyone is welcome at the farewell event, to chat about old times and explore the buildings one last time.

Once the move to the new building is complete, the school is also hosting an open afternoon for anyone interested in viewing the £5.8m timber eco-school.

Due to take place from 2-3pm on Friday, March 8, school governors will conduct tours of the new building to show its facilities in action.

Anyone with photos, artefacts or memories they would like to share for the farewell evening can contact Mrs Peters at the school via email at admin@chesterbluecoatce.cheshire.sch.uk or by phone on 01244 981098.