The Higgins Land Primary and Junior High School brought down the curtains to its 50th anniversary celebrations recently by honouring 50 past students of the school who are making meaningful contributions to the society. The 50 were chosen from several year groups over the 50-year existence of the institution.

Principal Fay Sterling explained that the celebrations to mark the anniversary started last year as the school was built in 1963 but was officially opened in 1964. Others honoured during the anniversary celebration were past principals, teachers and education officers. Sterling said community stalwarts were also recognised in the school’s Jamaica Day celebration. A church service was also held to commemorate the school’s 50 years of existence.

Past student of the school and present Vice Principal Claridine Allen Wilson, speaking at the awards ceremony recently, said the school has come a far way since its official opening.

“I am proud because I am an ambassador for the school,” said teacher Allen Wilson, who has been employed there for 18 years.

While the school has grown significantly, winning several major competitions to include the National Solid Waste Management Authority’s clean school competition for three years and the 4-H agro processing competition, Allen Wilson said there is still a lot more to be done.

“We want to revive the Past Students Association,” she said, even as she implored past students to come on board to motivate current students.

Past student Jasmin McNeish, who gave a response on behalf of the past students congratulated the principal and her staff for recognising them.

“It is not often that people recognise persons for who they are,” she said.

McNeish also expressed appreciation to the school “for having put together a function to recognise hard working members of society”.

Several students who have done well academically were also awarded at the ceremony. In addition, parents who participated in a parenting workshop were also recognised by the school.

The school which also celebrated its Career and Open Day showcased the talent of the students immediately following the awards ceremony.

Among the things which captured the attention of the many visitors were the items made from recycled items such as plastic and paper. The agro processing items, which included yam flour and an assortment of items made from orange peel, were a big hit.

According to Sterling, many visitors to the institution are often surprised that the deep rural school is doing exceptionally well.

The school was also the recipient of a cash donation from Eric Comry, a past student and undertaker at St Michael’s funeral home.