City primary school birthday is a living history lesson for its pupils

The for Plungington school is steeped in it.

This year Eldon celebrates 130 years of educating the city’s children in one form or another.

It started out in 1891 as a Methodist School and is now an oversubscribed community primary complete with a nursery

Current pupils have been digging deep to see how the fabric of the building has changed over the years and are planning a string of events to mark the anniversary.

The school, hit the headlines last year when workmen building an extension uncovered an old time capsule when they removed the original foundation stone.

Eldon also made history when the extension opened because it contains what is believed to be the first purpose-built radio studio in a Preston primary school.

Youngsters have interviewed former pupils and staff - who were treated to a tour of the building which has grown considerably over the past few years.

Broadcasts have been made using the school radio station and shared with the whole school.

Members of the school’s Learning Council have visited Lancashire Archives to view the school’s oldest headteacher’s log book,dated 1886 when the school began as a Methodist School.

Headteacher Azra Butt said a host of events are planned to mark the anniversary and she is hoping former pupils and staff will join in the celebrations.

She said: “For our 130th Birthday taking place on April 14, we are planning a ‘First Class’ tea party just like the original committee who did the same 130 years ago.

“We have held our very own Eldon’s Bake Off where children and families are competing to have their food items as part of the winning menu.”

Award-winning chef Lisa Allen from Northcote Manor visited the school to helped to judge the competition.”

The school is planning to ask the city mayor, Coun Margaret McManus, to lead a procession along the streets around the school with members of the brass band and other groups.