The school, which opened on August 13 in 1860, held a heritage day and commemorative assembly to celebrate the milestone.

The school will hold its big birthday celebrations in October.

But as part of Friday's celebrations, the pupils cooked scones, played old-fashioned tenpin bowling, took part in 'deportment' classes and learned how to sew.

A play was staged in the theatrette, which was built in 1881 and remains the school's oldest building.

The school had 60 students in its first year. Its highest enrolment was in 1922, when it had 1874 of them. The numbers fell to 692 in 1942, and today it has 190 students.

At Friday's ceremony, former student Keith Fox spoke about his time at the school in the 1940s.

Teacher Ken Schmack said students and teachers loved the activities. "It was a great day and the kids talked about how things are different now," he said. "I think they appreciate that they didn't go to school back then, but some of the kids were fascinated by corporal punishment."

People interested in attending the October 16 celebrations or who have school memorabilia that they're willing to share can contact the school on 96871910 or email: footscray.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au

ORDER, ORDER

Rules for teachers as mandated in 1872:

■Teachers each day will fill lamps and clean chimneys.

■Each teacher will bring a bucket of water and a scuttle of coal for the day's session.

■Male teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes or even two evenings a week if they go to church regularly.

■Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.

■Every teacher should 'lay aside from each pay a goodly sum' of his earnings for his benefit during his declining years so that he will not become a burden on society.

■Any teacher who smokes, uses liquor in any form, frequents pool or public halls or gets shaved in a barber shop will give good reason to suspect his worth, intention, integrity and honesty.