Past pupils and teachers share memories at Gosport school reunion

Brune Park School in Gosport held a reunion, giving people the chance to catch up and have a tour of the premises.

More than 50 people showed up for the celebrations, many of them seeing former friends for the first time in years.

The event was visited by two former teachers, Molly Bennett and Don Stacey, who taught when the school first opened 50 years ago.

Ms Bennett, from Lee-on-the-Solent, taught home economics until 1987.

The 87-year-old said: ‘I remember before the school opened on this site, it was across four different locations.

‘It is wonderful to have the chance to come back and have a look around.

‘Many of the buildings are exactly the same as when I was here.’

Mr Stacey, who also still lives in Gosport, was head of Grove House when he taught at the school. He said it was great for the school to organise the reunion.

‘The 50th year anniversary is very important, so it is good of the school to invite us all back,’ said the 91-year-old.

‘People have been sharing all their memories.’

Former pupils enjoyed the day.

Friends Christine Hibbard, Sylvia Marks and Jackie Uniacke still keep in touch since leaving the school, off Military Road, in 1967.

Sylvia said: ‘It’s been good seeing other people from different years at the school.

‘It was lovely coming back and sharing our memories.’

Christine agreed. She added: ‘It’s great of the school to invite former pupils and staff to help with their 50th year anniversary.’

The reunion is just one of many events the school has organised to mark 50 years since it opened.

It is hoped that the reunion will encourage more past pupils and staff to get involved and come to the final celebration at the end of the summer term.

The school is organising a summer festival on July 9 with games and activities, live entertainment and refreshments as well as stalls.

SummerFest will look back over the past 50 years and people are asked to get involved.

To help, email Amanda Rowe at [email protected]