A FONDANT St Francis of Assisi topped off an evening of celebrations at an Oxford school on its 40th anniversary.

Students, staff and Deputy Lord Mayor Colin Cook gathered on Wednesday to cut the impressive birthday carrot cake, made by parent Vikki Schwebel.

Year Six students in Falcons Class gave poetry readings assisted by Paul Lyalls from the Museum of Oxford, which is also celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

A range of original songs about the school and Oxford were sung by Year Five’s Kingfishers Class, under the direction of Hannah Rhodes, who has written songs for East Oxford’s Pegasus Theatre.

A stirring performance by members of the Oxford Welsh Male Voice Choir also formed part of the anniversary festivities.

Among the poets from Year Six was Ziyad El-Ansari, 11, who said: “It was really good.”

Hassan Bhatti, also 11, added: “It was nice to meet the mayor.

“I enjoyed the Kingfisher choir.”

Guests also viewed displays of the children’s work and signed their names in a celebratory book.

Parent governor Steve Richards said: “The event was excellent.

“We had funny and evocative poetry and some fabulous original songs.

“It was really well attended by current staff and former members of staff, such as our ex-head Janice Gordon.”

A second celebratory open day was held yesterday, with staff dressed in 1970s costume.