Clutching photographs from the era of their great, great grandparents, pupils Bonnie, Lincoln and Matilda represent the past, present and future of Linton Primary School.
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The trio were combing over photos from the 19th century in preparation for Linton Primary School’s 150th birthday celebrations this weekend.
Fashions, school equipment and learning styles have changed but every year the students still line up for a school photo.
Today there are 29 students at the school, a far cry from its first 100 years when the average enrolment was 232 students.
The oldest surviving student is now a centenarian himself and is believed to be returning to the town for the weekend to attend the Saturday night dinner and Sunday’s family fun day.
Teacher Jackie Walker said pupils were excited to be part of the festivities.
“Our grade six school captains are emceeing the anniversary dinner on Saturday so there will be quite an array of generations attending and they’ll learn more about the school’s history,” Ms Walker said.
But most students are looking forward to the fun day of activities planned at the school on Sunday from 11am to 3pm.
The school will be open for tours and reminiscing with items from the past 50 years on display. Older items will be housed nearby at the Linton Historical Society.
“All the fun stuff for the kids is happening on Sunday with activities at the school including a jumping castle, petting zoo, pedal slot cars and old time games, but the whole community has got on board too,” Ms Walker said.
Outside the school the Linton Men’s Shed, Linton Historical Society and the old Linton Library will be open for inspection, and vintage cars will be on display at the football oval.
Walking tours will also be held at the cemetery and around the town.
Facebook posts have generated plenty of interest from past students with several class reunions being held to coincide with the 150th.
But Ms Walker isn’t sure some of the current students, especially those in junior levels, fully comprehend the 150 years.
“Students have helped out with ideas and planning, but I really don’t think they realise how long 150 years is – it’s the era of their great, great grandparents which I don’t think many of them have thought of.”