As children across Suffolk return to school after the long summer break, we look back to when one Ipswich primary school reopened its gates in 1978.

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)

This gallery captures the moment children and their parents headed to Dale Hall Primary School. For some it would be their first day at school, for others it was the beginning of a new year.

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)

School friends reuniting and new uniforms and stationery are treasured memories for many of us from the first day back of the autumn term. But it would bring with it a reminder of the end of the long summer days.

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)

These pictures show children enjoying playground games before the start of the school day, whilst parents prepare to leave their child at school, many for the first time.

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)

To share your memories of your first day back at school, or if we have pictured you in this gallery, email our picture desk.

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Star: The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978The first day back at school at Dale Hall Primary School in 1978 (Image: Archant)