PAST and present students and staff came together to celebrate a primary school's 125 year history.

More than 100 ex-pupils and former employees of North Primary School visited the John Harper Street school for a trip down memory lane as part of its ongoing CXXV project.

Across the day, revellers shared stories, enjoyed song and dance performances from current students and took photographs of themselves for the school's historical archive.

Gazette: Alumni - a group photograph of pupils and guestsAlumni - a group photograph of pupils and guests

Headteacher Alan Garnett said: "The CXXV Open Day was amazing. Former pupils returned to the school for the first time since their childhoods, in some cases that was 70 years ago.

"And for some that meant meeting people for the first time since they left North.

"It was a privilege to meet these alumni and hear their stories and answer their questions as I showed them round the school."

The open day included 3d model making workshops run by artist Nicola Burrell, who has been assisting with the project.

Lexden History Group were also in attendance and showcased a range of toys and books dating back to the 19th century when the school was built.

Project manager Laura Davison said: "It was a delight to meet so many former pupils and teachers.

"The stories they shared of when they were at school were so special and are helping to inform us of how the school has changed over its 125-year history.

"It was wonderful to see the year five pupils put their oral history training in to practice, interviewing our visitors.

"They are enjoying gathering all this information and using it within their research to understand and retell the school’s history."

Gazette: Staff - three generations of teachers: Anthony Bette, Ash Nicholls and Frances FisherStaff - three generations of teachers: Anthony Bette, Ash Nicholls and Frances Fisher

Historian Claire Driver collected memories, photographs and oral histories throughout the day, which will be added to the school's archive.

All of this information will gradually be added to the project website.

CXXV has been paid for thanks to National Lottery Heritage Funding.

Visit www.northschoolcxxv.com.