Heron Bay Primary School is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. The pivotal landmark in the eastern end of Southampton has well-served the expectations of its founders: to provide a sound and proper education for students.

A host of activities are planned to commemorate the milestone under principal Lisa Swan.

Things got off to a fine start yesterday at a special assembly honouring former students who have made positive contributions to the local community.

Other activities are scheduled over the next few months including an alumni walk on October 25 at 3pm.

Heron Bay Primary School was formerly known as the Southampton East School. Initially a home, it consisted of three meagre rooms which, in 1925, were opened for private education. The school was subsequently taken over by the Bermuda Government in 1926.

The first principal was Elsie Bascome. She began her teaching career at the tender age of 21, with a group of 34 students. Mrs Bascome went on to engage in an illustrious career spanning 40 years as a teacher.

In 1953, the Government built new premises on the existing location. A new addition, which represents the current premises, was built in 1967.

Over the last 90 years, the school has been serviced by a total of eight principals and two acting principals. Among them was Winifred Brown, who remained at the school for 30 years, and retired in 1959. She was followed by Edward Smith, who spent five years as principal. Iona Richardson was appointed principal in September 1964 and served in that capacity until her formal retirement in 1981.

Doris Marsh took over as acting head while Mrs Richardson studied in Scotland from September 1966 to July 1967.

Mrs Richardson was succeeded by Carol Stoneham, the former deputy principal at Purvis Primary, in June 1981.

Alan Leigh served as principal at Heron Bay and Port Royal for two years, beginning in 1987. He officially took over as principal of Heron Bay Primary School in 1989, and stayed there until his retirement in 1998.

LaVerne Simons, was appointed principal in 1998 and served until February, 2010; Annette Daniels was acting principal in 2010, from March until June.

Joann Dill then took over the role.