Belfast school celebrates a century of community
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Euston Street Primary School in Belfast, Northern Ireland, celebrated its 100th birthday by welcoming back former students and staff.
The school opened in July 1926 and has served the local community for a century, even providing shelter during the Belfast Blitz in World War Two. During the bombing raids of April 1941, the school basement became a vital air-raid shelter after a nearby bombing killed residents seeking refuge.
Former classmates Barbara Best and Rosaleen Gilpin, both 83, who began attending the school in 1947, reminisced about their time as pupils. They recalled strict teachers and a classroom assistant who used a bamboo cane, but also fondly remembered the school library. Rosaleen Gilpin’s granddaughter, Sarah McCrossan, now teaches at Euston Street, continuing a family connection to the school. Colin Johnston, who attended from 1965 to 1972, returned with his granddaughter Poppy Anderson, a current pupil.
He noted the significant changes in technology, with students now using iPads. Acting head-teacher Laura Rainey highlighted the school’s deep roots in the community, pointing out that some families have had four generations attend Euston Street Primary. Current and former students signed the walls of the historic basement during the anniversary open day.
