A book detailing the rich history of Forest & Sandridge School is due to be released soon in celebration of the school’s 150 years.
The 60-page book titled The Sesquicentennial of Forest & Sandridge School has been produced by chair of the Melksham and District Historical Association Paul Carter in collaboration with the school.
It explores the 150-year history of Forest & Sandridge, including interviews with ex-pupils and staff as well as a collection of photographs from the archives. Some of the stories recount how pupils learned to dive for cover in nearby hedgerows during World War II air raids, as well as when there was an IRA bomb scare at the school.
It also includes an account of when, in the 80s, actress Sophie Aldred, who was Dr Who’s assistant and the niece of headteacher Mrs Boydell, visited the school to talk to the children and sign cards.
“It has been a great privilege putting together the book,” said Paul. “I hope it provides as full yet concise a story of the life of the school as possible, providing not just interesting unknown information but also sparking memories of your experiences as it did mine during my children’s time there and my stint as a governor.”
The new book will soon be available for £5.
Pictured: Paul Carter with the book and pupils at Forest & Sandridge School