A school opened its doors to former students to celebrate 125 years of the institution.

On Saturday, Heckmondwike Grammar School, on  High Street, Heckmondwike, opened its doors to celebrate the landmark.

Headteacher, Peter Roberts, noted that a great deal has changed since the school first opened, not least two world wars, a pandemic, seven Monarchs, 1 world cup, countless Prime Ministers, and 11 Headteachers.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: 99-year-old Hilda Wood with staff member Mrs Whitelaw. Image: UGC99-year-old Hilda Wood with staff member Mrs Whitelaw. Image: UGC (Image: UGC)

However, the school still upholds its traditional values and Latin motto, Nil Sine Labore – ‘nothing without work’ and everybody at the school subscribes to being the best they can possibly be.

Over 1,500 visited on Saturday, including many former students and former staff. All enjoyed tours of the school, including an extensive exhibition of the school’s archive and reminisced about their days in school, meeting people they hadn’t seen for many years. Visitors were treated to traditional afternoon teas and enjoyed the school band as an interlude.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Class of 1977 reunite at Heckmondwike Grammar's 125th Birthday celebrations. Image: UGCClass of 1977 reunite at Heckmondwike Grammar's 125th Birthday celebrations. Image: UGC (Image: UGC)

The oldest visitor was 99-year-old former student Hilda Wood, and the youngest just three months old, already seeing her first sight of her school to come.