A SCHOOL is getting ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Former pupils of Rawthorpe High School are being invited to dig out their old photos and any memorabilia for an anniversary display.

The display will feature photographs of many of the school's former musical performances as well as other items.

One of the organisers, Miss Sam Diskin, a member of the Parents' Association, said: "The school has always had a strong musical performance tradition stretching back the last half-century and our recent work in this area has been rewarded with an Artsmark Silver Award from the government."

But she warned many of the former pupils making a return visit would hardly recognise the building.

She said: "We have had a lot of work done by Jarvis over the last couple of years and the old entrance no longer exists.

"Along with the new entrance hall, there's a new assembly hall, which is also used as a sports and performance area, new windows and the rest of the school has been redecorated."

The anniversary will be marked with a special party on July 3 and former teachers and pupils have been invited.

The school will be open from 2pm until 4pm on July 3 for visitors to come and have a look around.

Cream teas will also be available.

The school's steel band and choir will perform in the afternoon.

And the evening will see a party with a live band and disco, buffet and bar.

Tickets cost £7.50 each and are available from Miss Diskin at the school on 01484 221892.

Miss Diskin said: "It's an ideal opportunity to meet with former teachers and old friends and see the changes made in the school."