Headmaster Martin Barker launches the school’s Platinum Jubilee community project: 70 Things for 70 Years
Mr Barker launched the project to pupils in assembly by describing how extraordinary this moment is: “Sunday’s Accession Day marks 70 years since The Queen came to the throne on the death of her father King George VI. She was just 25 years old. During her time as the British Monarch, she has advised 14 prime ministers, met 13 US presidents, been steadfast as the nation navigated crises and witnessed countless national celebrations and successes. She has shown great resilience over the years, which is a skill we champion and encourage here at Westbourne House.
“As a school, we are marking the Platinum Jubilee with a special whole school community project – a collection of 70 Things for 70 Years.”
Researching history, family history and objects from across the decades (1952 – 2022), Westbourne House School children will submit a photograph of their most interesting find. It might be a household item, something from the dressing up box, a toy or board game, a book, a photo of a special occasion (holiday, birthday, wedding etc), a work of art or music, a film or TV star – anything from the past which has sparked their interest and made them want to find out more.
Westbourne House’s Head of History, Mrs Armitage, will lead the team who will curate the collection; selecting 10 items from each decade to create an exhibition of 70 photographs for 70 years to be opened in May in line with The Queen’s Jubilee Celebrations. Mrs Armitage said, "I love the idea of this project, which was inspired by the charity Historical Association. By hosting our own community collection, we will learn so much not only about the history of the last 70 years, but also the history of our community over that time as well."
Mr Barker added, “The 70 Things for 70 Years exhibition will, we hope, create insight and help the children understand the extraordinary length of time our monarch has served. I am looking forward to seeing the photos of all the interesting finds.”
Each of the below groups has a decade to target as follows.
- Pre-Prep: 2012-2022
- Year 3: 2002 - 2012
- Year 4: 1992 - 2002
- Year 5: 1982 - 1992
- Year 6: 1972 - 1982
- Year 7: 1962 - 1972
- Year 8: 1952 - 1962
Photos must be received by Tuesday 3rd May 2022. Entries to jubilee@westbournehouse.org . Please ensure your submission is named and annotated with the year.
