Fendalton School is gearing up for its 150th jubilee, celebrating a rich history that began in 1875.

Events will unfold on Friday and Saturday over Labour Weekend, honouring the school’s legacy.

The school was originally established as a side school to Riccarton to ease long walks for children.

In its early days, Fendalton School emphasised primary education. By 1903, the school had expanded to four classrooms, three teachers, a student teacher, and 263 pupils.

Winters were harsh, with rooms so cold that students could purchase hot cocoa for a penny a week to stay warm. The school faced closure during the 1919 Spanish Flu pandemic, which inspired a transformative shift.

By 1928, six open-air classrooms served 400 pupils, and four of these historic structures have been preserved and refurbished as modern classrooms today.

More recently, rebuilding plans were delayed by the Christchurch earthquakes, but the project has now been completed just in time for the jubilee.

Fendalton’s alumni list is impressive, notable locals include singer Hayley Westenra, who starred in her first musical, “The Littlest Star,” at the school, and cricket legend Richard Hadlee, who honed his skills on the school’s oval as a child.

The jubilee promises to reunite generations in celebration of Fendalton School. To Register for the Jubilee, click here