Investigative pupils at the revamped St Thomas Church of England School in North Kensington are asking the community to help uncover more than 130 years of school history.

St Thomas Church of England School, in Appleford Road, moved into its state-of-the-art building at the end of last year. To mark the official opening this July, children hope to create a 'memory book' investigating the history of the school since it first opened in 1874.

Assistant head teacher Mr Jones, 37, is using nine Victorian log books detailing the school's past - which include canings, punishments and exam results - to inspire pupils.

The first entry from a book, created by diligent headmaster C H King, was made on January 10, 1874, when the school was called St Andrew and St Phillip's School, in Southern Street.

He wrote: 'A great deal of time in the care of the first week was spent in disciplining and bringing to order those admitted.'

By the 1930s, the log books showed pupils' parents worked as coal heavers, meat porters, greengrocers and one was even recorded as a miner. 

Mr Jones said: "I think, for me, it's amazing to see how many things have changed, but some things are still the same.

"We hope the memory book we make will stay within the school for another 100 years. This is another exciting chapter in our long history."

The children, together with Mr Jones and fellow teacher Jane Hambleton, are asking for members of the community with recollections of the school, particularly before the 1970s, to help plug gaps in their knowledge.

"We want to talk to any ex-pupils or teachers who remember anything of interest we can share. Did the school close during World War Two? Were the pupils evacuated?" added Mr Jones.

Other periods of particular interest include the 1960s and the Victorian era.

Those who come forward can visit the school to talk to the children, or alternatively, provide information for the book. If you have any information call the school on 020 8969 2810.