The oldest primary school in the UK

Great Wishford Primary School in Wiltshire recently celebrated its 300th anniversary and is believed to be the oldest in the United Kingdom 

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on BBC News

Great Wishford Primary School, near Salisbury, first welcomed pupils in 1722. It recently marked its 300-year milestone with a historical display, fancy dress and a commemorative tree, having previously held a number of ‘history days’ for its students to learn more about the school through the ages.

The school’s children commented that the anniversary was ‘amazing’. School governors created a display which included archived documents from the 18th Century, as well as photos of pupils during World War One and World War Two.

Chair of governors, Sue Bale, gave some background information on the school’s origins. “It was set up in 1722 by a gentleman who wanted to provide education for 20 boys and 20 girls who had no education. We have photographs going back to the late 1890s. We also have some books containing work from children dating back to the 1960s and 1970s.”

The current headteacher of Great Wishford school, Stephanie Cleaver, said that it was “a privilege” to work at a school with such a “rich heritage”. “The celebrations have been a lovely opportunity to not only celebrate the school’s past, but also to look ahead at the exciting opportunities that are coming our way.

“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in making the anniversary celebrations such a success.”