The celebrations began at the academy’s Summer Fair on Saturday, 27th June, where a special 50th anniversary stall gave visitors the opportunity to explore the school’s history and share their own memories in a commemorative memory book.

Former pupils, parents and staff reflected on the friendships, achievements and experiences that have shaped generations of children since the school first opened its doors in 1976.

The celebrations continued throughout the following week as pupils stepped back in time to discover what life was like during the 1970s.

Dressed in party clothes, they explored the music, art, fashion and significant events of the decade through a range of themed learning activities, helping them understand the era in which their school first opened.

A special anniversary assembly welcomed former members of staff back to the academy, where they shared stories from the school’s early years and answered questions from pupils about how school life had changed over the past five decades.

The occasion concluded with the cutting of a specially created 50th anniversary cake, generously donated by Cake Box Peterborough, giving everyone the opportunity to celebrate the milestone together.

Mrs Jo Ellis, Headteacher of Longthorpe Primary Academy said: “Our 50th anniversary was a truly special occasion and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate everyone who has been part of Longthorpe Primary Academy’s story. It was fantastic to welcome former pupils, former colleagues, staff and families back to the school to share memories and celebrate everything that has made our community so special.”

She added: “The celebrations reminded us how much our school means to so many people. While we reflected with pride on everything that has been achieved over the past 50 years, we also looked ahead with excitement. Our children continue to inspire us every day with their enthusiasm, kindness and determination, and we remain committed to ensuring every child is supported to achieve their very best.”

Among those sharing memories was former pupil Rebecca Adcock, who was one of the first children to attend the newly opened school after transferring from Thorpe Primary in 1976.

Rebecca said: “I started at Thorpe Primary before moving to Longthorpe with my entire class when the new school opened. Looking back brought back so many happy memories – merit badges in assembly, sports day races, country dancing, trips to Lilford Park and sitting on the logs during playtime.

“The teachers made such a lasting impression. I still remember Mrs Bishop, Mr Sutton, Mrs Kelly, Mrs Handley and so many others who helped shape our childhoods. It’s incredible to think that 50 years later, the school is still creating those same special memories for children today.”

The anniversary celebrations highlighted not only the academy’s proud history but also its continuing commitment to providing an inclusive, ambitious and nurturing education.

As part of Keys Academies Trust, Longthorpe Primary Academy continues to inspire children to achieve their potential while remaining at the heart of its local community.

The 50th anniversary celebrations served as a fitting tribute to the generations of pupils, staff and families who have helped shape Longthorpe Primary Academy over the past half century and left everyone looking forward to the next chapter in the school’s story.