New Date Set for Banovallum School’s Diamond Jubilee Open Day

A new date has been announced for our diamond jubilee celebration after the original event had to be cancelled owing to flooding. 

The school was just one of hundreds of buildings in Horncastle which were flooded owing to heavy rainfall during Storm Babet in October 2023. 

Now Headteacher Grant Edgar has confirmed the special 60th-anniversary open day for staff, students and governors past and present will be held on Saturday 22nd June, between 10am and 2.30pm. 

“We were so disappointed that we had to cancel the last event but hopefully June will give us an opportunity to show off the school on a warm and sunny day,” said Mr Edgar. 

“We are planning on offering guided tours of the site run by the students. There will also be the opportunity to connect with old friends and have a good look at our archives. If you have any old photos or memorabilia, we would love to look at those as well. 

“We will also be recording a talking history archive of what life was like at Banovallum throughout the years so if you have any repeatable anecdotes, please do share them with the students on the day!” 

The school will also be a Bano Reunited Service to help former students get in touch with their schoolmates.

Mr Edgar added: “Sixty years is quite an achievement and we have really enjoyed planning the event and hearing everyone’s stories. It’s obvious the school holds a special place in the hearts of hundreds if not thousands of people! 

“Several of our staff were pupils at the school and they’re looking forward to meeting up with old friends again - we’re hoping as many alumni as possible will come along. 

“The open day is also an opportunity for current pupils and staff to celebrate the school’s more recent achievements as well as discover its past.” 

The school was opened on 23rd November 1963 by James Heathcote-Drummond-Willoughby, 3rd Earl of Ancaster. 

Chief Executive of the Horncastle Education Trust Sandra James said it’s played a huge role in the local community ever since. 

“Banovallum School has achieved a great deal over the last 60 years and has become integral to the town,” explained Sandra. 

“Since it joined the trust in December 2018 it has been rated Good by Ofsted, and as the most recent report mentioned, this is a school where staff want the best for all pupils and staff and pupils are proud of the school. 

“As a trust, we are also incredibly proud of the school and what it stands for. Many people have fond memories of their time at Banovallum either as a pupil, parent, teacher or governor and we’re looking forward to celebrating with them at the open day.” 

As part of the diamond jubilee celebrations, we have also launched an alumni association. To join, visit the website banovallumschool.co.uk/alumni.