History of Branston
Set on an eight and a half acre site, Branston Intermediate School was constructed during 1971 with a central classroom block of twelve classrooms, two specialist rooms for home economics and woodwork, a library, administration block and large hall.
The school opened in May 1971 with 445 pupils, and the school hall became available as a public hall. By 1979 there were 539 pupils. During the 1980s the roll dropped to between 350 and 450.
The final decision on the school's name was in fact adopted by the interim school committee from the recommendation of the principal, Mr R.F. Armstrong. Prior to this, several names had been suggested and rejected for one reason or another. Broadlands did not seem appropriate to a built up area, and only 8 miles away was Broadfields school. Oakhampton seemed to be too much of a mouthful, and besides where were the Oaks? With a Hornby School and a South Hornby School, to name yet another school 'Hornby' was to add confusion. Mr Armstrong put forward the name Branston. As he had done research into the history of the area, he was award that the name had no direct association with the area. Besides it had a nice sound to it, was straight-forward, and appeared to be the most suitable so far suggested.
Mr Armstrong was the first principal. For the previous eight years he had been principal of the Halswell School.
The school swimming pool was opened on November 26th 1976, and is still regularly used in the summer by the Branston pupils.
Some of the first year pupils contributed the following interpretation of the name Branston:
B - Buildings new and modern
R - Rising to fill the needs of education
A - Aiming for an image proud and purposeful
N - New interests, values and relationships
S - Staff guiding, working as a team
T - Together with pupils create this image
O - Opening the way to the future
N - Noble learning institution
A tradition that continues to this very day is the singing of Amazing Grace at the Final Assembly. This tradition was introduced in the early 1970s.
Farewell to the Form 2/Year 8 Pupils
This is traditionally held on the last Monday night of Year 8. Pupils were, and still are, dropped off at the beginning of the night and picked up at the end. Staff are actively involved in the dance. A tradition of the evening is to finish with the singing of Auld Lang Syne at the end of the night.
Talent Quest
The first talent quest was held in 1971. Talent Quests are still held, now in the fourth term of the year. Originally they were held to raise money, but not any more.
Folk Dance Evenings
Folk Dance Evenings have been held once a year. The children were taught the dances during P.E., and they came to the evening with their parents. Folk Dance evenings continue to be held once a year at Branston.
Branston Blues
In 1989 a system of Branston Blues was established and has been in operation ever since. Branston Blues are a series of awards given for achievement in sport; a mark of general excellence as an all-rounder.