News

The blowing out of the 50th Anniversary candles

Leigh Road Baptist Church (LRBC) is joyfully celebrating a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of its Pre-school, a ministry that has impacted generations of local children and families. As we reflect on this half-century of service, we recognise God’s provision and blessing throughout the journey.

The celebration as part of the LRBC weekly Sunday service was marked with a gathering filled with cake, candles, balloons, prayer and heartfelt memories. Mala, one of the cherished members of the community, played a special part in making the day even more memorable by blowing out the candles on the anniversary cake.

Founded on Monday, April 30, 1973, LRBC Pre-school started humbly with just 16 children per session, three sessions a week, and four staff members. The fees were 30p per session, and one memorable early discussion involved the approval of the pre-school’s toilet facilities! Even the Baptistry immersion heater was used to warm water for washing hands—a detail that surely deserves a photo, though none was taken.

Minutes from the first LRBC-playgroup-pre-school committee meeting back in 1973

But the question remains—why did LRBC begin this playgroup-turned-pre-school? It was Mrs. Rosemary Wood who first suggested the idea, which was brought before the church in January 1973. The church vision was clear: the pre-school would benefit the local community, provide a Christian-based, but open to all, environment for children, and serve as an outreach to local families.

Some of the LRBC Pre-school staff past and present who attended the anniversary celebration

From these small beginnings, the pre-school grew steadily. By its 20th anniversary, it had 45 children on the register, holding five sessions a week. Today, the numbers are even more impressive: 63 children, 10 staff members, and eight weekly sessions, with about 30 children per session. Over the past 50 years, the pre-school has welcomed an estimated 2,000 children through its doors.

Despite the many changes in facilities, staff, and students over the years, some things have remained constant. LRBC Pre-school has always had dedicated staff who have worked hard to serve local families. The families, in turn, have shared their stories and lives with the pre-school, while God’s hand of blessing has been evident throughout its history.

This legacy continues today. Our pre-school staff remain committed to providing a loving, supportive environment for children and their families. The volunteer steering group offers guidance and support, and we continue to welcome new families with open arms. Seeing parents’ worries turn into smiles as their children settle in reminds us of the important work we do.

Andrew Palmer, Chair of the LRBC Pre-school Steering Group, shared these reflective words:

“As we celebrate 50 years of Leigh Road Baptist Church Pre-school, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness in providing for this ministry over the decades. From its humble beginnings to the thriving pre-school we see today, it has always been a place where children are nurtured, families are supported, and God’s love is shared.
I want to personally thank our dedicated staff—past and present—who have given so much to this work. Your care, commitment, and passion are what make this pre-school the blessing it is to the community. You continue to embody the heart of this ministry, and we are deeply grateful for all you do.
As we reflect on the past and look to the future, we trust in God’s plan for the pre-school and pray that He will continue to guide and bless us for many years to come.”

As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we acknowledge everyone who has been part of this journey: the founders, staff (past and present), children, parents, volunteer steering group members, church members, ministers, and all those who have faithfully prayed for the pre-school. We thank you for your contribution, and recognise you all for the part you’ve played.

We praise God for the privilege of hosting an on-site pre-school, and we seek His continued guidance and blessing as we move forward. This anniversary is a testament to the faith, courage, and commitment of those who have worked to build and sustain this ministry over the years.

As we look to the future, we are excited for what God has in store for LRBC Pre-school. We pray that He will allow us to continue this important work for many more years to come.

More past LRBC Pre-school staff and volunteers enjoy looking through the old photos.

After the service, all were invited to visit the display of photos and scrapbooks, speak with former staff, parents, and children, and enjoy the selection of cakes brought in to mark this special day.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this celebration. We give all the glory to God for His faithfulness over the past 50 years and trust Him for the years ahead.