Coventry school receives papal blessing on 100th anniversary

A week of celebrations brought together more than 1,500 guests to mark the 100th anniversary of a school. Sacred Heart Primary School, in Brays Lane, Coventry, received the papal blessing of the Archbishop of Birmingham, Bernard Longley, on its centenary.

A commemorative stained glass window was also unveiled at a ceremony at the nearby Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A festival also saw pupils perform songs from the last 100 years after each year group studied a decade of the last century. There were also fairground rides, bouncy castles, Irish dancing, choirs, bands and fireworks.

Paul Madia, who was a pupil at Sacred Heart in the 1980s, joined the school as a member of staff in 2008. He said the school spent a year planning the event. Paul, now executive headteacher, said: “Sacred Heart is very special and I hold it close to my heart. Today we had the opportunity to pay tribute to the key leaders who have helped the school thrive, from Gerry Campbell, who was my headteacher, to Gerry Cullen, who joins us today as our oldest former member of staff.

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“We also honour the contributions of past and present students, dedicated staff, committed governors, faithful parishioners and devoted priests. Over the decades, Sacred Heart has been a beacon, nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of belonging through faith.

“Following this incredible celebration, we hope that for the next 100 years and beyond, all parishioners and visitors will be able to enjoy the beautiful stained glass window to contemplate their faith and apply what they see to make the world a better place.”

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