Fond memories at Penryn College reunion

12:03pm Tuesday 1st July 2008

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There were fond smiles and perhaps just a few tears at a reunion to mark the end of almost 50 years education in the current Penryn College building.

As the school year draws to a close, staff and pupils are bidding farewell to the current school and preparing for the grand opening of new multi-million facilities on the same site.

To mark the momentous occasion, former staff and ex pupils from the last five decades joined with current staff for a reunion on Saturday, bringing back many memories for all involved.

History teacher Andrew Oates, who helped organise the event, said: "It was a fantastic day. We had lots of people come in during the day and the evening and there was a really good atmosphere."

Around 300 people attended an "open school" event over the course of the day. They were able to view a large collection of photographs taken over the decades, as well as enjoy activities taking place around the school including games run by pupils in the sports hall and outside.

This was followed in the evening by the formal reunion, which saw the 350 tickets sold out.

Annmarie Hollis, French teacher and head of Gluvias House, welcomed the guests before running an old cine film showing sports days and school trips from the past.

Guests were able to sign boards relating to the decade they attended the school, which will be put on display in the new building.

"Loads of people were really sad to see the building go, but we had lots of interest for the new build and lots of excitement about the future," said Mr Oates.

He added that the school had received "really great feedback" following the event.

The current building opened in 1961. Before that the school was at The Quarry site for five years from 1957.

To view photos from the event click here

To purchase pictures taken at the event click here