Village News & Notices

Announcing a new local history publication
Schoolday Memories
From Blakedown

It began as a makeshift school in a temporary building. But in 1885, Blakedown School was officially founded on a plot of donated land next to the village church. Over the decades thousands of children have passed through its doors. For many, in the earlier days, it was the only education they would receive. For others, it was the important foundation that prepared them for secondary school.

To celebrate the 120th anniversary of Blakedown School, an anthology of personal recollections from former pupils and staff is being published. Schoolday Memories also contains many previously unpublished photographs, and early extracts from the school logbook.

What games were played? How were children affected by war? What were school dinners like? How did teachers manage to teach three age groups at a time? The book answers these questions, and many more.

Lesley Brown, whose two children are Blakedown pupils, has edited the book. She's been struck by the very different ways in which people remember their schooldays:

'For some it's memories of sporting events that have stuck in the mind, for others it might have been individual teachers, even specific lessons. And it's fascinating to discover how life at Blakedown School has altered over the years.'

The book will be available from 25th April, to coincide with celebrations for the school's 120th anniversary. It costs £3, and will be on sale at Blakedown Post Office/Crumbs, and at the school itself. Any profits will be used by the PTA to fund improvements at the school.

Copies may be ordered by post from Blakedown School, Birmingham Road, Blakedown, Kidderminster, DY10 3JN, at a cost of £3.75, including postage and packing.

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