A certain bald-headed British comedian made a comical appearance at his childhood primary school to join students and staff in their brand new building. 


Little Britain comedian and actor, Matt Lucas joined teachers and pupils from Aylward Primary School, in Harrow on March 26 to celebrate the opening of their new school building. He attended the school from 1979.


Matt entertained pupils at Aylward with school day stories where he said his hair promptly fell out for no reason at age five. 


He said although he wore a cap, he went on to play in several school productions, usually in the role of old men, making everyone laugh. As he said, turning “something bad into something good”. 


He told the children “you can do anything if you just listen to each other” when discussing his journey from a Harrow pupil to Hollywood actor.

Matt helped staff and pupils bury a time capsule containing Aylward memories dating back to the 1960’s.

Harrow Times:

Aylward was selected to be rebuilt by the government as part of the Priory Schools’ Building Programme. The school moved into the new building in April last year.


Matt said “I thoroughly enjoyed the opening celebration and it was such a thrill to come back home to Aylward and take a tour round the amazing new building. 


“It was a delight to see three of my former teachers again, and to meet so many of the current staff and pupils.” 


As part of the celebration, Matt was given a framed copy of his last school report in 1985, marked: “Matthew is gifted at writing stories. He can be witty without giving offence.”


Guests were entertained by the school choir and a whole school assembly was held where Matt talked to the children.


As a testament to the former school building, Aylward head teacher, Clive Westhall, and Year 3 class teacher Mrs Rajpara suggested the pupils bury a time capsule containing Aylward memories dating back to the 1960’s.


Among the many items buried were current school uniforms. 
Other guests who attended included the mayor, Cllr Margaret Davine, the mayoress, Marilyn Devine, Harrow East MP, Bob Blackman and school governors, staff and pupils - past and present.


Children at the school asked Matt how the school had changed over the years. They also interviewed Bob Blackman MP about his role in the community.


The mayor and Mr Blackman unveiled a plaque commemorating the new building to hang alongside the original from 1952. 


Mr Westhall, said: “This was a wonderful way of celebrating the brand new facilities we now have at Aylward. The school has a tremendous history and we now look forward to the next chapter.”


An OFSTED inspection to Aylward last year revealed the pupils had a “very good attitude” to learning, demonstrating care and respect.