A SCHOOL has marked the end of its 40th anniversary celebrations by publishing a book exploring its history.

Risca Community Comprehensive School has held several events for its special anniversary this year paying tribute to pupils and staff, past and present.

Its final project is a book called Making the Difference: A History of the First Forty Years penned by local historians Nick and Gillian Thomas.

The book traces the story of the school from the initial plans, construction and official opening by HM Queen Elizabeth in her jubilee year in 1977, to the school’s anniversary concert in July this year.

The school has seen four head teachers over the four decades and last month current head teacher, John Kendall, met together with the authors to present the first head Derek McKie with a copy.

Mr Kendall said: “Derek and I have met on a number of occasions over the last few years, and shared many stories.

“It’s great to see this has all been put into a book for the local community.”

The school was originally split between a headmaster’s house, a local church and a library, with school children and teachers making the move to the new site without the help of contractors ahead of the Royal seal of approval in 1977.

After moving to Pontymason Lane, several teachers made their mark over the decades.

This ranges from science teacher, Alan Parfitt – who was fondly known as ‘Jonny Compost’ for his work keeping animals and running a farm at the school – to Ms Anne Hewkins who helped pupils stage plays normally reserved for professional companies.

Former Newbridge Comprehensive School deputy head, Nick Thomas, co-wrote the book with his wife Gillian and described the process as a “labour of love”.

“I found the process really interesting and it’s a school really on the way up,” he said.

“I’m hoping that the children will read it as there is background there they should be proud of.”

The book will be placed in a time capsule and also features a futuristic story by current head girl Megan Balmont – winner of the school’s special essay competition judged by South Wales Argus editor Nicole Garnon.

The capsule was placed in a specially-built plinth at a school ceremony this summer where former pupil and Olympic silver medallist Jamie Baulch was guest of honour.

It contains the whole school photograph taken in January, items of school uniform, exam papers, a DVD of the anniversary concert, several photographs and other documents.

The capsule was never sealed in order for this book to be added and will not be opened until the school’s 100th anniversary in 2077.

“I’m sure the book will spark off many memories- and there are some great photos here too,” Mr Kendall added.

Around 500 copies of the book have been printed and are available from Risca Community Comprehensive for £5 or for £8 if posted to an address within the UK.

For more information on the book, call 01633 612425 or email community@riscacom.net