INTERVIEW: Lancaster school celebrating 60th birthday is proud of its family links

Tuesday, 6 May 2025 16:25

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Alice Robinson and Helen Seddon at Our Lady's Catholic College in Lancaster

A Lancaster school will mark 60 years since its official opening with a family fun day of celebration.

Our Lady's Catholic College will hold a special celebration event 'Diamondfest' this Saturday (May 10) which is open to the public.

The school first opened in September 1964 but had its official opening on May 6 1965, 60 years ago.

Head teacher Helen Seddon said there is a real "family feel" at the school, as 31 current Our Lady's staff are past pupils, including herself and her husband Stuart.

Mrs Seddon began there in 1979 and met Mr Seddon, who is now sixth form pastoral support officer, when both were in the same class.

Daughter Kate is also now a teacher at Our Lady's, as head of science.

Alice Robinson, who has been connected to the school since 1964 as pupil, teacher and governor, also met her husband there - and taught Helen when she was a pupil!

LISTEN to our interview with Helen Seddon and Alice Robinson

Below, the school under construction in 1964

Public figures who are past pupils of Our Lady's include Emma Atkins, who plays Charity Dingle in Emmerdale, international footballer Scott McTominay, and TV antiques expert Paul Hayes.

Diamondfest will run from 11.30am to 5pm on Saturday, with all funds raised going to CancerCare and St John's Hospice.

Live music will come from Solstice, The Zoffs, Amy Rae, The Crackerjacks, Tom Woods, Andy Creevy and The Panda Cups.

There will also be a fairground, bungee trampolines, kidzone, face painting, magicians, local crafters' stalls, balloon artists, chocolate tombola, free games and fun for all the family including activities with Lonsdale Scouts.

A Grand Prize Draw has prizes on offer with over £500 worth of goodies, all donated by local businesses and the school's suppliers.

As a bonus, any ex-pupils, booking online get a free Grand Prize Draw ticket if they submit a school photo.

Tickets cost £7.50 (single tickets) and £20 (family tickets). Limited tickets will be available on the day so best to book early HERE.

The original Our Lady's teachers in 1964.