A ROMSEY secondary school is celebrating it's fiftieth anniversary this year.

The Mountabatten School in Whitenap Lane opened its doors in 1969.

Fifty years on, the school which became an academy in 2011 now has more than 1,400 pupils.

Pupils, staff and ex students are set to embark on a number of celebratory events in honour of its golden jubilee.

Associate Headteacher Chris Cox who has worked at the school since 2005 said the school has an "exciting celebratory year ahead."

"All of the students will receive a fiftieth birthday badge that they can wear to school, and they will attend a service at Romsey Abbey on June 27."

The school is also set to host an alumni event on June 28.

From 7pm until 11pm guests will enjoy a marquee held within the school ground, a marquee, hog roast, bar and DJ.

They money raised will go towards the cost of the event and an remaining money will go towards future school projects.

The school is set to carry out fundraising for the next five years as Lord Mountbatten did not officially celebrate the opening of the school until 1974.

Chris added: "The school is in excellent physical shape for its Golden Jubilee.

"Since becoming an academy two thirds of the school has been upgraded."

This includes a new dance suite, refurbished science block and PE changing rooms as well as a newly built maths and languages block.

Chris added: "We have always had good academic results but we want to create well rounded citizens who are healthy and creative.

"We want to ensure our pupils become world citizens

"We have strong links to schools in India and China and we also focus on teaching our students about the environment."

When asked what he enjoys about working at Mountbatten School Chris said:"The school has a lovely ethos as it combines tradition and heritage with a modern outlook.

"I love coming to work here."