A PRIMARY school has celebrated its 140th anniversary.
Whitegate CofE Primary School marked the milestone on Friday, July 17.
The celebration included a Victorian tea party, Victorian games, and maypole dancing.
Caroline McKenzie, headteacher at Whitegate CofE Primary School, said in her speech: "As a historian, I have had the joy of researching and investigating our school’s rich history.
"The school log book from the day that our school opened in 1886 simply says, ‘School resumed work after an interval of three months in the new building on Monday, July 26, 1886’."
A special exhibition in the school hall displayed historical documents, while a commemorative service at St Mary’s Church formed the heart of the day.
Chris Penn, diocesan director of education, and Sal Thirlway, director of education for the local authority, were among the guests.
Others included MP Andrew Cooper, Cllr Gina Lewis, former headteacher Ian Percival, and Zena Philippou, assistant headteacher of Hartford CofE High School.
Mrs McKenzie reflected on the school’s growth.
She said: Today, Whitegate remains a very popular and attractive school. We have grown considerably since those early days.
"The first photo we have found is from 1895. where there are just 30 children in the school, compared to today, where we have more than 140 children on roll.
"This year we are the fourth most oversubscribed school in Cheshire West and Chester and only have very limited space in some year groups."
Speaking about what makes the school special, Mrs McKenzie said it comes down to the people.
She said: "The love that is poured out from us all. The staff, many previous people who are here today, who give and have given their all, going above and beyond because they want the very best for all children.
"The parents, grandparents and carers who support us every step of the way.
"And of course, our amazing children, who are kind, considerate and have the greatest sense of humour."
She also spoke about the school's distinctive Christian ethos.
Mrs McKenzie said: "I have been just a very small part of Whitegate’s history, just one of 15 headteachers who have had the honour and privilege to serve our amazing school.
"What is it that has sustained our school? The same thing that sustains me – God’s love which endures for ever."
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