Primary school on outskirts of Swindon celebrates 300th birthday

A Primary School on the outskirts of Swindon has celebrated its 300th birthday with a look back through time.

Ashbury with Compton Beauchamp Church of England Primary School may have a long name, but it's got an even longer history having been the first ever Sunday School (outside of the church) in the country.

Located in Ashbury, just East of Swindon, the primary school is now part of the Faringdon Learning Trust and caters to over 80 pupils aged three to 11.

On Friday, June 28, 2024, the school and local families came together to commemorate its 300th birthday with singing, Ceilidh dancing, a parade and a speech from Headteacher Rachael Smith.

“We have been celebrating all week at school from investigating the school history to a time capsule that we buried today," said Ms Smith.

"I am so proud to be Headteacher of this school at such a special time."

Pupils loved learning all about their school's long history (Image: Faringdon Learning Trust)

The school's history began in 1724 when it opened as a charity school paid by ratepaying tenant farmers for the poor children in the village.

In 1777, Thomas Stock then opened the country's first-ever Sunday school outside of the church at Eastwood Cottage.

The two schools ran alongside each other until 1863 when plans were drawn up for a three-classroom new school.

In 1818, there was a Sunday school and daily school both working alongside each other in Eastwood Cottage.

Between 30 and 50 children attended the schools, and the master and mistress of the school were paid a total sum of £5 per year.

Over the years, there have been charity Schools, a national school, two Sunday schools, a separate pre-school and a primary school all located in Ashbury Village.

The current school buildings (which serve a pre-school and primary school combined) where the birthday celebrations were held were opened in 1959.

Pupils, staff and families celebrated the big birthday with singing, dancing and a parade. (Image: Faringdon Learning Trust)

“It is with great pleasure we are able to celebrate the 300 anniversary for Ashbury Primary School," said Richard Evans, Faringdon Learning Trust Chief Executive.

"It is amazing to reflect upon all the children and staff that have worked and studied at Ashbury over the past 300 years.

"I am delighted that Ashbury still offers an excellent education for all their children and many more generations to come.

"Being part of Faringdon Learning Trust helps protect the future success of Ashbury- possibly for another 300 years.”