A PORT school that was built between the two world wars is celebrating its 90th birthday this summer.

St John's Primary has stood the test of time despite the changes in the town over the years.

Thousands of children have flocked though its iconic entrance which still bears the date 1931 and the old separate entrance signs for boys and girls.

Depute head teacher Martin Craig said: "The building dates back to 1931 but the school was founded before that and used to be where St John's Church hall was in Shore Street.

"It's nice to see the building has stood the test of time.

"It was refurbished five years ago and there was an extension for the canteen and nursery.

"I think it is important for children to feel part of a tradition and many great-grandparents, grandparents and parents have come to the school before them.

"So in many cases, there is a continuation down the family line and a great sense of community at St John's."

Mr Craig said the school has been a constant when so many other things have changed in the town.

"There is a picture taken in 1958 and almost everything is so different, yet the school is exactly the same.

"The shipyards have gone and the retail park has taken their place but the school is a staple.

"It's always been there."

But the milestone is also about looking forward to the future - and in the last 12 years the school role has increased by over 100.

Mr Craig said: "In August we will have 280 pupils, compared with 174 when I started here 12 years ago - and we also have 24 children in the nursery.

"Port Glasgow is evolving and the new estates at Kingston Dock and Gibshill have had an impact on our roll as the catchment hasn't changed."

The modern generation of P7s were swift to give their school the thumbs up.

Erin Keenan said: "I like my school because the teachers and staff help everyone."

Sophia Ross added: "It's an achievement that the school is 90 years old.

"Everyone is equal at St John's and does their best - we're a team."

Blair Hoodless told the Tele: "I like the school because it is friendly, I looked forward to coming here every day and seeing my friends."

Luke Gill said: "Everyone is included at our school and treated the same.

"You get to learn things in different ways and not just reading from textbooks."

Mr Craig says events that would have been held to mark the anniversary - such as a tea dance for grandparents and an invite for former pupils back to the school for a trip down memory lane - have been delayed due to the public health restrictions.

He said: "We are using the year to celebrate and hoping that if changes take place over the summer we will be allowed to throw a party for the children in August."