Sherborne St John CE Primary School celebrates 175 years

Sherborne St John CE Primary School, built in 1850, celebrated its milestone with a special service of Celebration and Thanksgiving at St Andrew’s Church.

The school, originally constructed to educate the labouring and manufacturing classes of the village, has continued to serve the local community.

Pupils participated by singing favourite songs from school worship sessions, while both current and former headteachers also contributed to the ceremony.

Pupils sung their favourite songs from school worship sessions.(Image: Sherborne St John CE Primary School)

Interim Diocesan education adviser, Lucy Chambers, presented a brief history of church schools.

Reverend Stewart Deering gave a talk from the Bible, reflecting on the enduring impact of Christian faith in the school’s legacy.

Following the service, the school opened its doors to the community, offering tea, cake and a trip down memory lane.

A notable highlight was the cutting of a celebration cake by special guest Charles Chute, a direct descendant of the school’s founder, William Lyde Wiggett Chute of the Vyne Estate.

Music from Chris’ Jazz Friends provided a backdrop for past and present staff, pupils and parents to gather and reminisce.

The school was adorned with displays, including excerpts from 19th-century school log books and photographs spanning from the 1920s to the present day.

Attendees also had the chance to purchase the school anniversary book, filled with recollections from staff and pupils over the decades.

Children enjoyed the opportunity to dress up as Victorian schoolchildren, taking party in various craft activities and games.

The day was filled with smiles, shared memories and happy reunions, encapsulating the family-like atmosphere of the village school.

As one attendee remarked: "Being part of this village school is like being part of a family, and you never really leave it."