History and Community

The History of Perryfields (County) Primary

Prior to Perryfields School being built, the area was predominantly pear orchards and farming land, hence the name of the school. Originally built as a two-story primary to accommodate 270 children, it was officially opened on 5th September 1956 and the first Headteacher at Perryfields was Mr E. L. James.

The school has changed considerably since 1956 and is now a two-form entry with the capacity to take 420 pupils in total. Due to a demand for primary places in the area, building work commenced in 2012 to extend the school and increase its capacity. The extension is modular in design, was built in two separate factories and transported onto the site on low loaders. Watching the new building grow and develop was incredibly exciting for all concerned. The disappointment was felt when it was finally completed and was sitting alongside the original school building, which looked extremely shabby. Fortunately, Sandwell LA agreed and financed the replacement of the original steel-framed single-glazed windows and the oil-fuelled heating system (which never worked) with gas central heating. Added to this, air conditioning units were fitted in four of the original classrooms. Using the school’s own budget, the original classrooms were refurbished in the hope that the old building would reflect the same high, colourful standard as the new.

We have certainly come a long way in the past 12 years, from having bare brick walls in the classrooms, high levels of condensation on the glazing, mould on the frames and dark wooden furniture, which was never fit for purpose. As a Sandwell school, we are incredibly fortunate to have access to so much outdoor space and play area.

Please take a look at our photographs below depicting how the school has changed throughout the past six decades.