WATCH THE FILM

It may not be the BAFTAS or the Cannes Film Festival but Bishop Monkton's forthcoming film premiere is just as eagerly anticipated! There are just ten days to go until the first screening of 'Best Years of Our Lives' - a film presented by children from the village school about the history of education here in Bishop Monkton. The film digs into the history of schooling here, going back more than 200 years and right up to the present day. Plus it also takes in the story of the Mechanics' Institution which, among other things, once provided adult education in the village.

The premiere takes place on Wednesday 21st May at 7pm in the Village Hall. It's Free. Just turn up. All welcome. There'll be a Cash and Contactless Bar run by the Friends of Bishop Monkton School. The film running time is just under 40 minutes.

There will be a second screening on Friday 23rd May at 3.45 pm in the School – this is mainly intended for parents, staff and children but if you can't make the Wednesday screening, feel free to come to this one. Just turn up. Free. Children's refreshments c/o the Friends.

SEE THE EXHIBITION

An exhibition is also being put together which will include class photographs from Bishop Monkton School going back more than a hundred years and including pictures from just about every decade up to the present day. So, if you went to Bishop Monkton School in years gone by, you may well find yourself starring in the exhibition, which will also include artwork done by current pupils at the School inspired by the history of the School.

The exhibition can be visited on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May in the School Hall between 12noon – 4pm as part of the village Fun Day.

BUY THE BOOK

A 128 page book has been produced which chronicles the history of the School and the Mechanics. It's full of interesting facts, personal stories and pictures including class photos of all current pupils in the School.

The ‘Best Years of Our Lives’ book, £10 cash or contactless, will be available to buy at all three events listed above. All proceeds of the book sales (once production costs have been covered) will go to the Friends of Bishop Monkton School.

The 'Best Years of Our Lives' project has been organised jointly by the School and the Bishop Monkton Local History Group.