IN PICTURES: Chalvedon School’s successful years before closing its doors 11 years ago

The school, in Wickford Avenue, Pitsea, saw tens of thousands of Basildon youngsters pass through its doors from its opening in 1966 until the closure in 2009, when it merged with Barstable School to form Basildon Academies.

At its peak, Chalvedon School had more than 1,800 youngsters on its books.

Countless former pupils have gone on to forge successful careers in the world of work thanks to the Pitsea school putting them on the right track.

Donation - pupil Rachel Hammond hands over a cheque to a disabled children’s charity in July 1980

We have dipped into the archive to rediscover these images of pupils celebrating sporting glory, testing radio communications and fundraising in the 1980s and 1990s.

Scroll down to see more images of when Chalvedon School was in its heyday.

Lined up - a group of female pupils pose for a photograph in October 1981

All together now - youngsters showcase their singing talents at the school in July 1980

Training - competitive hurdlers Katherine Gray, 14, Vicki Savill, 15, and Michelle Anthony, 14, in October 1991

Gangsters - teachers Iain Dale and Roger Nicholas dress as the Kray twins alongside pupil Abi Spillett in March 1992

SEE ALSO

• IN PICTURES: What it was like for Beauchamps High School pupils in 1980s and 1990s
• IN PICTURES: When Southend High Street used to be bustling with Christmas shoppers

Testing - Graham Bacon and Derek Feltham, both 14, try out radio equipment when the Royal Corps of Signals visited the school in 1972

Classroom capers - mock headmaster Dean Marriott, 14, gets the treatment from pupils in February 1984

Best foot forward - Chalvedon School pupils on a sponsored walk in June 1992

Woodwork - Susan Kemp shows her creative side in class in January 1972