Supporters of Mathilda Marks Kennedy School have given it something to celebrate for its diamond jubilee by raising more than £320,000 in 36 hours.

Richard Angel, a governor and member of the anniversary events team, was “ecstatic” at the response to the fundraising drive, which began on Sunday. “We’ve had 1,440 donors,” he said. “The school community came together to raise the money.”

The proceeds will be used for a new playground, a mental health and wellbeing sensory room, upgrading technology and improving classrooms.

The 60th anniversary campaign aims to “give the school a platform to grow and succeed for the next 10 years,” he said.

Events have so far included a breakfast and a tea for grandparents, while a video featuring the children of the Edgware-based primary champions “MMK — Greatest School”.