Old school met new school when three former pupils returned to their alma mater to be interviewed about their days as students.

Maidstone Girls Grammar School welcomed Margaret Amos - a pupil from 1934-1942 who went on to become a teacher - Glenda Jordan-Baker and Josie Copper, both pupils from 1946-1952. The three were shown around the school, interviewed and filmed by pupils as they reminisced.

Modern day MGGS pupils heard how their 1940s counterparts had to dye their socks in tea to make them the right colour, would sit in terror on the red chair in the foyer if they had committed a misdemeanour, and go into underground shelters during war-time air raids where lessons continued on their laps until the all-clear.

In turn, the MGGS Old Girls saw today’s technology at work in classrooms and were surprised at both the youth of the staff and the size of the sixth form.

Margaret Amos remembered moving into the present school building in 1938. She said: “The school corridors used to be open, and the snow would come in. But I must say how thrilled we were, to come to this marvellous new building. We thought we were absolutely in heaven. But then, of course, the next year, the war came and spoilt everything.”

After the visit, Glenda Jordan-Baker said: “I enjoyed every minute of it. We’ve laughed all day.

“We didn’t do that at school in our day. We were all so frightened all the time, so knotted up in case we did something wrong. There were so many rules to remember.

“All the girls here now are so happy and free - it’s lovely to see them. The atmosphere and attitudes are wonderful.”

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls is developing an extensive archive and would love to hear from any former pupils who have stories to share and who might have photos or artefacts they could lend or donate to the school.

Contact the newsroom on 01622 695666 or email messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk if you can add to the archive.

Do you have similar memories of your schooldays? Write to the Kent Messenger, 6 & 7 Middle Row, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1TG or email the above address.