St Peter Port Secondary head teacher Ken Wheeler and students Sam Bowring, 14, and Rhiannon Sales, 13. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0808395)

ST PETER Port Secondary School closed its doors for the final time yesterday.

The modelling clay and science chemicals have been boxed up and, after 40 years, the classrooms emptied as Year 9 pupils enjoyed their final day.

Only 60 pupils were left at the site, following a phased transfer of most students to other schools.

Head teacher Ken Wheeler said it was sad to be leaving Les Ozouets, but it was the school community that was important.

‘We are trying not to get sentimental about the building, but rather we want to remember the spirit and community of the school. That will stop when we leave.’

He had mixed emotions about the final day. The school has been operating normally for the final year, with just pupils from Year 9 and 11. The latter left on study leave in May, leaving only a few dozen pupils.

‘There has been real sadness. But we have continued. We did have a sports day, and it was a really happy occasion.

‘One of the pupils even broke a school record. Over the year there has been wonderful team spirit among pupils and teachers.’

During St Peter Port’s history more than 4,000 pupils have passed through its doors.

Last year, the school celebrated its 40th anniversary.