Pupils, staff, governors, families and community partners came together on Sunday, 20 September to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Send CofE Primary School with a special thanksgiving service and birthday fair.

The celebrations began with a service themed "Giving Thanks for Our Past, Present and Future".

Children helped to build the worship space using 10 symbolic objects representing the school family, shared a collective psalm created from their own work, and sang On this School Your Blessing Lord.

The primary school was established in September 2016 when Send First School and St Bede’s Junior School merged to form an all-through primary school. The merger replaced the ageing St Bede’s buildings, which were built in 1958, with modern facilities.

The Rt Rev Paul Davies, Bishop of Dorking and Acting Bishop of Guildford, attended the service, reading the parable of the mustard seed - sharing that all great things come from small beginnings.

Alex Tear, Diocesan Director of Education, reflected on what makes a Church of England school distinctive, while long-serving members of staff were recognised with service awards presented by headteacher Marianne McDonnell, Bishop Paul and chair of governors Yvonne McLeod.

The anniversary festivities continued with a Big Birthday Fair. Visitors enjoyed tours of the school, dance performances from the Kellilou Irish Dance Academy and the Hungarian School Dancers, explored displays celebrating the school's history and contributed to the Faces of Send community art project.

Residents were encouraged to share photos of their time at the school, including former pupils of Send First School and St Bede’s. Current pupils were also asked to contribute art projects showing what their school might look like in future.

Ms McDonnell said: "Reaching our 10th anniversary is such a special milestone. I am immensely proud of everything our team, children and families have built together, while continuing to build on the wonderful foundations laid before us.”