Nostalgia exhibition to mark 50 years of Magna Carta School

May 27 2009 By Russell Butt

A SERIES of fun and nostalgic events has been organised to commemorate a school's 50th anniversary.

Between Monday, June 1 and Friday, June 5, an archive exhibition, quiz night and gala concert will entertain past and present pupils, teachers and friends of the Magna Carta School, in Thorpe Road, Egham Hythe, which opened on its present site, back in 1959.

The school, formed from the amalgamation of Egham County Secondary School and Manorcroft Secondary School, opened under headmaster Mr Mal Williams and a staff of 25.

Over the past half century, it has undergone significant development and is now a thriving centre of learning, providing a broad range of subjects and activities for its students as well as facilities for the wider community through adult education and community arts and sports.

To celebrate the anniversary, staff and organisers hope to engage with anyone connected with the school since it opened.

Proceedings kick off with the opening of an archive exhibition and art display on Monday, June 1 at 6pm, by Mayor of Runnymede, Councillor Paul Tuley with help from headteacher, Mr Tim Smith. The display will feature nostalgic memorabilia from the school submitted by local contributors.

Mr Smith said: "We are really looking forward to marking this important anniversary in the history of our School. We are delighted that so many community groups are involved in both the planning and the celebration itself.

"The School is at the centre of our local community and we want to celebrate this anniversary with everyone who has been part of our school over the last 50 years."

The exhibition, in the Main Hall, continues on Tuesday (June 2) and Wednesday (3) and is open from 10am-12.30pm, 2pm-3pm then 4pm until 9pm both days.

On Tuesday evening, a quiz night with raffle takes place at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12 per team, of up to six people.

On Wednesday evening, a tea dance takes place in the canteen, led by dance teacher Val McMillan. On Thursday, June 4, the exhibition continues in the foyer and canteen, from 4pm until 9pm, with the bar open from 7pm.

The finale is a VIP black tie Gala Concert on Friday, June 5, from 7pm in the Magna Carta Theatre, attended by Deputy Mayor of Runnymede, Margaret Roberts. Tickets cost £10 including a buffet supper.

For event tickets and further details call 01784 454320.