John Mansfield School in Western Avenue, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough, opened its doors for the first time on September 1, 1957.

To mark the 50-year milestone a party for former pupils is being held on Saturday June 9. Guests will be reunited with old friends and offered a tour of the premises.

In July there will be special events and celebration assemblies for pupils, while staff, governors and friends of the school will attend a party.

Headteacher Chris Walford said: “John Mansfield School has played a major part in the life and futures of people in the Dogsthorpe, Welland, Bluebell and Fulbridge communities.

“More than 8,000 young people have been educated at the school since 1957 and many have enjoyed highly successful professional and personal lives. In recent years more and more pupils have gone to university.

“We intend the summer to be a fantastic celebration for many people who have been connected with the school.”

When John Mansfield School opened it was girls-only, and had 420 pupils on the register. It became co-educational in 1983 when boys from the Lincoln Road Boys’ School transferred to John Mansfield School.

Over the years, the school has gone from strength to strength. It began teaching sixth form courses in 1995 and won Government School Achievement Awards in 2001 and 2002. In 2006 it was named the 53rd most improved school in Britain.

After 50 happy and successful years, the school is due to close permanently in August 2007 with staff and pupils transferring to the Thomas Deacon Academy.

The academy, currently being built at a cost of £46 million, will also replace Hereward Community College and Deacon’s School.

Mr Walford added: “This summer will also be a time to celebrate a new era of education for this community as the new school opens.”

Former John Mansfield School pupils are being urged to loan old photos and memoirs to staff for use during the celebrations.

Anyone who can help should call the school on 01733 566010.

nThe Evening Telegraph is also keen to use old school photos as part of our weekly Looking Back feature. If you would like to submit images, send them to Ann Molyneux, Looking Back, The Evening Telegraph, 57 Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1JW or e-mailann.molyneux@peterboroughtoday.co.uk or call 01733 588724.

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