The year 1953 was a milestone one for education in Tenby, as the Infants School in Heywood Lane threw open its doors to pre-junior children in the town.

In those early days, the school accommodated some 140 pupils, 25 in the nursery department and the remaining 115 in the four other classes. These were overseen by the headmistress and five assistant class teachers.

Now the school has 221 children on roll, with eight classes, which includes the Welsh class (Dosbarth Cymraeg), established in 1984 to cater for children whose parents wish them to be taught through the medium of Welsh.

The use of technology has been an important development at the school throughout the years, with the most recent additions being a computer suite and interactive board.

Over the years, the staff and children have been regularly involved in fund-raising for local, national and international charities, with a diverse number of worthy causes benefiting from the school's efforts.

Since its inception, the school has maintained strong links with the local community, taking part regularly in events throughout the area.

The school has been very grateful over the years to many parents, craftspeople, the clergy, local services and agencies, who readily visit the school or welcome the children into the community to support curricular activities.

The contributions made by all of these people to the school are much appreciated and reflect the caring relationship which exists between the school, parents, the church and the general community.

A number of events have been arranged for the coming week to mark the school's Golden Jubilee year.

On Wednesday, there will be a service in the morning by the Under Fives' department, attended by the two ex-headteachers, Mrs. Margaret James and Mrs. Brenda Price. The service will be supported by Canon David Jenkins.

There will be a concert in the afternoon performed by the Key Stage 1 children, where an array of music from the last five decades, ranging from 'Rock around the clock' to 'Reach for the stars', will enthuse the invited guests and parents.

A celebration cake will be presented to all the guests, and to conclude the celebration week there will be a children's party on the Friday, followed by a magic show.

The children will each receive a special commemorative back-pack as a gift from the school, courtesy of Tees-R-Us.

The school will be open to the public between 3.15 and 4.30 pm, from Monday to Friday, October 20 to 24, when visitors will be able to see a display of photographs and memorabilia dating back to the school's opening on October 21, 1953.

There will also be displays throughout the school depicting major events over the last 50 years and a magnificent mural in the foyer designed and painted by Mrs. Linda Thompson which commemorates 50 years of school life.

Anyone wishing to know more about Tenby VC Infants School's week of celebrations can contact the school on (01834) 843241.

A message from Headteacher, Gill John:

I was appointed as Headteacher of Tenby VC Infants School in May 1998, taking up my position in September 1998 due to the retirement of Mrs. Brenda Price who had been at the school since 1984.

It is with great pride that I am associated with such a wonderful school in the Golden Jubilee Year 2003.

At present we are 221 on roll with eight classes which include the Welsh Unit.

The Deputy Headteacher, Mrs. Harrison, is in charge of the Under Fives Unit, which caters for children between the ages of three to five.

Key Stage 1 children range from five to seven years of age. However, this is due to change in 2004 as we all await the new Foundation Phase Curriculum which will cater for children three to seven years inclusive.

During the last two years we have successfully completed the Investors in People Award, Quality Mark (second phase) and an excellent Inspection in 2001.

These awards only go to reinforce the commitment and care which all the staff promote on a daily basis within our school.

The use of technology is an important development at Tenby Infants with the opening of our computer suite in May 2003 (supported by Texaco).

The suite houses 10 computers, a scanner and printer. All the classes are time-tabled daily throughout the school and every child has the opportunity to enhance their learning skills in ICT and other areas of the curriculum.

The purchasing of the interactive white boards is a major expense and it is our aim for every classroom to have a board by 2005.

The staff receive training throughout GEST and advisory support teachers regularly visit the school.

Our after-school clubs continue to thrive, such as ICT, PE, Welsh Language, Science, History, Recorder and new on the curriculum for 2003 is French. We also offer Swimming and Violin as extra curricular activities.

The strong links with St. Mary's Church and Canon David Jenkins are important to the school. Our weekly visits from Canon Jenkins never fail to enthuse the children and staff.

We also take part in regular services at the church during Christingle, Easter and Harvest celebrations.

The wearing of our school uniform continues to be encouraged, with a 100 percent uptake, along with the promotion of healthy snacks daily (fruit only), which shows the respect and commitment our parents feel about Tenby Infants School.

School meals are cooked on the premises which cater for all dietary needs and the children are encouraged to participate in school meals weekly. The number of children having school meals is 120.

Our Science Garden is a new addition to our grounds, where the children enjoy exploring, learning about science and maths linked activities and for pure enjoyment.

In our Science Garden is the bird bath donated to the school in memory of our school nurse, Mrs. Joyce Soar, who had been at our school for many years.

Out PTA work tirelessly to support the school during the year. We use the money raised for the education of the children and outside visits such as educational trips, pantomimes and local charities.

We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and committed staff and governing body, chaired by Mr. Paul Morris.

A special thanks goes to the community and everyone who has shown support and contributed to the school over the years.

With supportive parents and, most importantly, caring, well-motivated young children, I feel the tradition of 'happyland' continues to thrive in our school today and long may it continue for the next 50 years.

Best wishes.