Former pupils in to see the new Assumption school

Former pupils in to see the new Assumption school

IT may be a new, state-of-the-art building but some things — such as ethos and values — never change.

That was the overriding view of past pupils of Assumption Grammar School after viewing the building for the first time since it was completed.

Some of the pupils joked that they were almost as old as the school itself; others were clearly a lot younger than the eight decades Assumption has sat on the hill above Ballynahinch.

But all the alumni seemed delighted to finally get striding the new corridors and rooms that will carry Assumption pupils through the current century.

It’s a visit that would have happened last year but was postponed by adverse weather.

Many of the visitors recognised artwork from the past which now adorns the corridors. And some couldn’t withhold a tinge of envy on encountering the school’s fabulous purpose-build sports hall, which can accommodate up to four badminton games at once; changed times indeed.

Veteran netball players of yesteryear couldn’t resist getting back onto the courts for old time’s sake — and demonstrating how the skills honed in the original building have stood the test of time.

It was no surprise, though, that the entertainment put on by current pupils consisted of music and drama — two qualities the school is renowned for.

Librarian Evelyn Walker organised displays of photographs covering Assumption’s entire history, while the display of old school uniforms and memorabilia brought forth tears of nostalgia.

School principal, Paul McBride, said the special occasion reminded him that the Assumption is shaped by all its family members — past and present.

“Our guests confirmed what we know already — that when you join our school community you develop strong bonds and make life long friends,” he said.

“We were delighted to see so many past pupils who recalled happy memories of their days in Assumption Grammar School as they toured our beautiful new building,” said vice principal Mrs Bernie Devlin.

“The photographs and memorabilia from the school’s opening in 1933 to the present day prompted stories of special occasions such as the annual drama festival.

“Those who attended spoke of their school days with great warmth and affection and were delighted to have the opportunity to catch up with former and current staff.”