St George's Celebrates 150 Years with Prestigious Heritage Honour

St George’s Catholic Primary School, which celebrated its 150th anniversary this summer, has won an award for its work in preserving and promoting local history.

The Lemington school received the prestigious Heritage Schools Award from Historic England, and found an innovative way to mark the achievement.

“In March 2025, the school was invited to become a Champion Heritage School, a title awarded to institutions that demonstrate exceptional dedication to heritage education,” explained Gillian Ellin, History Lead at St George’s, which is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust.

“As part of this honour, St George’s received funding to undertake a local history project, culminating in the creation of a stunning school timeline.”

“Spanning from 1750 to the present day, the timeline captures the essence of the area’s industrial heritage, and key moments in the school’s own history,” said Executive Headteacher Anne Bullerwell, who helped to design the timeline in collaboration with Mrs Ellin and the St James’ Heritage and Environment Group.

“Highlights include the school’s founding 150 years ago, its temporary closure during World War II, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and a photograph representing the school today.”

Covering a wall in the school hall, the colourful mural has brought history to life for the children at St George’s, inspiring them to learn more about the school’s heritage.

“The timeline has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among pupils, with many asking insightful questions about both the school’s past and the wider community’s evolution,” continued Mrs Ellin. “It has also become a valuable educational tool, supporting this term’s curriculum as each year group explores their local history topic.

“In addition, Years 5 and 6 students created a class book that chronicles the heritage and history of St George’s as depicted in the timeline. These pupils proudly presented their work during a special school assembly, sharing their discoveries with the entire school community.”

St George’s role as a Champion Heritage School has also won praise from the wider community.

“Parents and visitors have expressed deep appreciation for the school’s focus on local history, and the respect shown for the area’s cultural legacy,” added Mrs Bullerwell.

“The timeline not only reinforces academic learning, but also embodies the school’s core values – particularly the importance of respecting our environment and the world around us.

“As St George’s celebrates its 150th anniversary, the timeline stands as a powerful tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and a hopeful vision for the future.

“Here’s to honouring the past, celebrating the present, and embracing a bright future. May the next 150 years be just as extraordinary.”