Picton’s look back in time

Picton Primary School staff and students were transported to the past when they opened a time capsule that was buried there 25 years ago.

The capsule was buried 1m under a rock with a plaque in 2000, which marked the turn of the century and the Olympics being held in Australia.

Principal Sarah Perrett said it was the perfect time for messages to be left for future staff and students. 

The capsule included student submissions, a copy of the school’s newsletter, VHS tapes, a school uniform and even a canteen menu. 

“The students were amazed, particularly by items that were unfamiliar to them, such as the VHS tape,’ Miss Perrett said. 

“Parents, community members, and former students enjoyed reminiscing as they looked at the photos and the work they had submitted at the time, reflecting on how much things had changed since then.” 

Miss Perrett said Mr Cornish, a former Deputy Principal who was at the original burial, returned to open it. 

The most interesting item for Miss Perrett was the canteen menu. 

“It was fascinating to observe the types of food offered at the time, 10c pikelets, 60c cheesies, and compare the prices to those of today,” she said. 

Year 6 student leader, Julia Rondario, said it was exciting to see the items that were buried in the capsule. 

“It’s really cool to see people 25 years ago in our school and the things they did,” she said.

“I liked their work and their writing because it’s similar to what we do now. They also wrote about themselves, so we got to know a little bit about them and wondering how they have changed.” 

Miss Perrett said it’s beneficial for students to see items from the past because it helps them understand how the school and daily life have changed over time.  

“It is important for the school to recognise and capture its history in this way because it helps preserve memories and achievements for future generations,” she said. 

“Time capsules allow students, staff, and the community to reflect on the past, understand how the school has evolved, and appreciate the experiences of those who came before them. This process also fosters connection and pride in the school community.” 

Now that the capsule has been opened, the students and staff have refilled it with new items. It will be opened in 2061 to mark the 200th anniversary of Picton Primary School. 

This capsule now contains submissions from each student describing what they believe 2061 will look like, or what occupations they expect to have, along with the current school uniform, the canteen menu, school photos, the school newsletter and reports from the faction captains and student leaders. 

Julia said she also drew a picture of herself and her hobbies as part of her submission. 

“I am very excited because I can’t wait until I have grown up to come back to the school. I will be interested to see what the school looks like in 2061 compared to now,” she said. 

“I will feel very proud that I was included to be part of the time capsule and to be included when it will be opened.”