Maxwell’s birthday coincided with his school’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

He was the focus of attention when 750 students and teachers gathered to cut an enormous green-and-yellow cake in honour of the day.

After the cake was cut, Maxwell was presented with a special gift – a science kit – to celebrate the unique occasion.

Tamworth South Public School was officially opened on November 28, 1952, with the school’s first students starting the following year.

Former staff member Marlene Ford, a teacher librarian at the school for 30 years, spoke to students yesterday about its long history, starting with its early beginnings on the site of what is now Tamworth High School.

In 1956 it moved to its current location, where it grew at a great rate; classrooms struggled to keep pace with the school population.

Mrs Ford, who retired in 1988, said when former students and teachers returned next week for the 60th reunion celebrations, many would notice enormous changes.

On Wednesday, a whole-school presentation will be held at TRECC, beginning at 10am, before participants are invited to return to the school to walk around and take in a display of memorabilia which will include photos all the way back to 1952.

On Wednesday night a reunion dinner will be held at West Tamworth League Club.

Mrs Owen, a Tamworth South teacher from 1985 until her retirement last year, said students from the school’s first year and a number of former principals were attending next week’s festivities.