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Search forFormer staff and pupils wanted for reunion party at Ivy House school
Tuesday, December 02, 2008, 07:30
A reunion for former pupils, staff and parents is taking place to mark the end of an era for Ivy House School, which has been on its current site for more than 30 years.
The school, which caters for pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties, is moving to a new £8m purpose-built school at Derby Moor Community Sports College, in Littleover, in January.
Ivy House's current building was opened in 1952 as a junior training centre for teachers learning to look after children with special needs. It eventually became a school in 1972.
Head teacher Pippa Sillitoe said that the staff wanted as many people as possible to come back to visit the school at the reunion on Friday.
She said: "We've been able to keep in touch with some families and staff but there are others that we no longer know where to find.
"We hoped that people would see this article and it would encourage them to come along to see what we're doing.
"It will be a great way of saying goodbye to the old building, which has sadly been quite inadequate for us for many years."
Teacher Charlie Farrar has worked at the school for the past 14 years. He said: "We have been sorting things out ready for the move and it has caused us to reminisce.
"In addition to a broad and balanced curriculum, pupils at Ivy House have always been included in a wide range of additional activities.
"These have included many holidays over the years, including a trip to a caravan site in Abersoch, Wales, on a number of canals, a cruise to Spain, Butlins and several trips to France."
Mr Farrar said other memorable events included the annual sports day at the Arboretum and also the annual Christmas pantomime.
He said: "For the past 10 years, the primary department has performed a nativity play, in which every pupil takes part. We have had themed days such as weddings, music festivals, Bollywood and African activities and X-Factor nights."
The reunion day will start with a number of afternoon activities for pupils to mark the closing of the school. These will include a visit by a police car and a fire engine for pupils to explore.
This will be followed in the evening by a party for former staff, pupils and parents.
It will take place at the school, in Ivy Square, from 7.30pm and will include a disco, bar and quiet areas to reminisce and chat with old friends.
Parent Sandra Taylor, whose son, Ashley, 17, attends the school, said: "We are hoping to go to the party and it should be an exciting way to mark the end of an era."
Mr Farrar said: "We are hoping people will bring along old photographs, as well as their memories."
Anyone wishing to attend, or with any stories they want to tell, should get in touch with the school on Derby 344694.
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