A rural Norfolk high school founded 50 years ago is marking its golden milestone with a celebration open day today, Saturday.

Eastern Daily Press: Head teacher Dr Simon Fox stands outside the modern reception with the studen leadership team as they contemplate their progress over 50 years and look to the future.Head teacher Dr Simon Fox stands outside the modern reception with the studen leadership team as they contemplate their progress over 50 years and look to the future. (Image: Archant)

Flegg High School was built on a seven acre site just outside the village of Martham half a century ago with its first head Mr A Prosser at the helm.

Everyone including past and present students, teachers and parents are invited to see just how much the school has changed and to rekindle a few long-lost memories of the classroom.

An exhibition of photographs and memorabilia will provide a snapshot of successes and events through the ages, charting changing fashions and hairstyles as much as revolutions in bricks and mortar.

With an ever-flowing tide of students and teachers a few have remained constant amid the eddies of education with some teachers - notably science teacher Dan Hicks - presiding over Bunsen burners for more than 30 years.

The last five decades have seen the school move from a new wave secondary modern to a specialist business academy with all the modern facilities that would be expected of an educational hub which has plenty to look forward to.

Head teacher Dr Simon Fox whose focus on business and the world of work has seen a shift in emphasis as well as a new reed-rooted logo, said it was his good fortune to be in charge at 'this auspicious time'.

He said: 'Schools are a vital part of every community, they act like giant time capsules, storing memories, moments and accomplishments. The opportunity to re-visit a slice of your own history does not come along every day so make sure you make the most of this chance to stir the pools of recollection and take a stroll down memory lane.'

The school is throwing open its doors between 10am and 2pm for taster lessons and school tours.

Fish and chips, a favourite throughout the decades, will be served between noon and 1pm.

There will be an exhibition of the school's history, performances, and a chance to check the log book and find your name.

Staff have also tracked down and dusted off the infamous leavers' bell which despite local legends that have it originating from all sorts of exciting sources, was in fact donated by a farmer.

Preparing for the event has meant staff turning detective, delving into records and digging out old photographs of the site and the many youngsters who have passed through it.

Black and white snaps show children with heavy fringe haircuts engaged in an art class in the 1960s and lined-up for what appears to be a tree-planting ceremony amid a gaggle of sculptures.

There will also be a Christmas fair in the school hall where local producers and Flegg's own students will be selling their wares just in time for the festive season.

The school asks that all visitors enter the school via the main reception where they can sign in and collect a programme. With parking likely to be at a premium visitors are asked to walk to school where possible.