It was 150 years ago that the school first opened its doors, catering to families around the region. 

The school’s history was celebrated on Saturday when the community came together to mark the occasion. 

In 1866, classes were first held at the Bracknell Methodist Church before the first school building was completed a few years later. 

There were 63 pupils enrolled in the early years – almost exactly the same number as today. 

Mrs D Johnston was the first known teacher at the school and continued teaching until 1871. 

Generations of families went on to send their children to the school and today, many pupils have grandparents and great-grandparents who have also walked through the halls. 

Farming and agriculture have remained an integral part of community life – in the past, the school hosted the Bracknell School Show for many years. 

When schools at Liffey, Blackwood Creek and Bishopsbourne closed their doors, enrolment at Bracknell swelled as more pupils were welcomed to the region.

Over the years, one thing has become very clear at the school – it sits at the heart of the community. 

The classrooms are filled with pupils whose families have lived and worked together for generations. 

The much-loved buildings are looked after by the pupils and the large grounds are well used. 

Grade 3 pupil William Parker said it was exciting to be at the school in the year it turned 150.

“This is the first celebration I’ve been here for, so it’s exciting,” William said. 

“I like it here a lot because I’ve made a lot of friends since I first started here and I get to see them every day.” 

Principal Sharryn Crothers attended the school herself, and has fond memories of her school days.

“I left in grade 6 and came back as the principal,” Ms Crothers said. 

“It’s just like coming home, and that’s not just about the buildings, even the drive out here and when you see the Western Tiers you get that welcome feeling.” 

School teacher and former pupil Sharmane Jones said the school provided children with not only academic opportunities, but cultural experiences as well. 

“The school is the hub of the community,” she said. 

“When I was at school here we were still writing on the blackboards with bare floors … and at one stage I taught a son, two nieces and a nephew in one class.

“The students really respect the community. We don’t have other people looking after the school because the students look after it and respect it.”