St John’s Primary School have been celebrating their 300th year this month with a series of celebrations. The school was founded in 1721 after money was left in the will of Ann Harris.

The school educated the poorest forty pupils in the Parish of Midsomer Norton.

Today, the school is attended by over 430 pupils who are enormously proud of the school’s long history.

The 300th year festivities began on St John’s Day, Thursday, 24th June, with assemblies where the children learnt more about the history of the school. They took part in a treasure hunt around the school to find key features which hint to the development of the site – from commemorative plaques, bricked up doorways, historic fireplaces and the school bell, which was tolled for all to hear!

In the afternoon we held a picnic on the field in class bubbles and enjoyed cakes (donated by the PTA) and party games.

Earlier this month Alun Williams, CEO of Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership, Headteacher Danielle West-Gaul and pupils from Year 3 officially opened the outdoor classroom.

This new facility will provide another area of learning for pupils attending forest school, as well as the opportunity to move lessons out of the classroom.

Other year groups worked hard preparing for its opening by helping to cover the floor area with chipped bark.

The school would like to thank George’s Garden for donating a cherry tree which was planted to mark the occasion.

Later this year the school will be installing a stained-glass window in the hall, which is being designed by Edgar Phillips.

Former pupils and local residents can make a donation towards the installation by visiting: http://gofund.me/09844bd6