Barwon Heads Primary School (BHPS) is celebrating 150 years of educating local children with a series of events to bring the community together.
As part of the 150th celebrations, BHPS seeks to raise $150,000 to revitalise an outdoor learning space.
The celebrations will run all year, with a series of events, including a fundraising dinner and auction in October. Festivities were officially launched with a special assembly on Friday February 28.
Among the attendees was Dorothy (Dot) Sutcliffe, a much-loved former student and teacher whose ties to the school span four generations.
Dot first walked through the school gates as a student in 1941 and returned as a teacher in 1957. She spent the next 25 years teaching at BHPS until her retirement in 1992. Dot’s children also attended the school. Her granddaughter, Sharna Renfrey, was also a student and is now a teacher at BHPS, and Dot’s great-grandson, Percy Sutas, will start next year.
Dot said BHPS had always been a huge part of her life.
“I was lucky enough to teach in the town I love, and it was so special to see my own children go through the school,” she said.
“I even taught my son Stephen and my daughter Rhonda – although Rhonda thought I picked on her, which I probably did. The school has always had a wonderful community, and I made many friends over my time there. Even now, when I’m out and about, I still have former students stop for a chat, which I love.”
Principal Rob Bennetts said the new outdoor learning space would be an exciting step forward for the school.
“Outdoor learning gives kids the chance to be active, explore, and connect with nature, which we know has huge benefits for their learning and wellbeing,” he said.
“This space will be something that students can enjoy for years to come, and we’re really excited to see it come to life.”
Local businesses are encouraged to support the school via the program. More information at bhps.education/partnerships
