A Personal View 10
Status: 10 items, 20.06.2021
Status: 10 items, 20.06.2021
Mr Fuller (left) and Mr Crompton settle an argument in the Staff Play "Snobs" in March 1960.
Table of contents
1. Speech Day 1961
2. Mr Hamilton and Fate 3. Autumn Term 1937 (Mr Hamilton's first) 4. Speech Day 1930 Lord Middleton's Speech 5. Memories of Staff |
6. Aspects of the House System
7. A poignant moment from Speech Day 1967 8. The HGS Staff and Drama 9. A connection with Mr Collette 10. Mr Jack Rhodes |
1. Speech Day 1961
From the Prefects Photo 1962
A special moment for two pupils
A special moment for two pupils
L-R: Jacqueline Leonard, Miss Smith, Mr Hamilton, Mr Collette, David McKenzie
The Head Boys and Girls' Speeches on Speech Day started in 1958 with Gloria Farnsworth and Jim Wild. Jacqueline Leonard and I (Dave McKenzie) had to give our speeches in 1961 to a large audience in the Hippodrome. Sadly my speech has not survived. I do remember spending a lot of time preparing it. I just about memorised it, but you could take it onto the stage. Jacqueline went first and was very professional. We were followed by Mr Hamilton. To say the least, it was quite stressful but we got through it and enjoyed the rest of the year. We had to lead off the dancing in the Prefects' Ball. From memory, I had to organise it, book the band, get the tickets ordered and be the "compere" - e.g. "Ladies and Gentlemen, please take your partners for a waltz." They were different times.
Jacqueline Leonard 1954-62
Hi Dave!
Cynthia Hodge passed on the web address to me just before Christmas, and I have been hooked ever since. It is a fantastic site and has brought back so many memories. I have been searching around for any photos and I have managed to find a number which do not appear on the web site, dating back to 1945. I am wondering if you would like them for the site? If so, what is the best way of getting them to you? There are also some items of memorabilia, some anecdotes and some of the missing names on the site etc.
Congratulations to both you and Sheila on such a brilliant web site which I am sure must have taken you many, many hours of hard work.
All best wishes,
Jacqueline Leonard, HGS 1954-62 Holgate House (March 2005)
Dear Jacqueline,
How lovely to hear from you. I am glad that you have enjoyed visiting the HGS site. It has been a pleasure constructing it with Sheila. Thank you very much for the offer of material. Please send whatever you have to me at the site’s address. I will scan everything and then return it to you. Just email any text memories and names to me. I am sure that your material will be much appreciated by the Hilmians who visit the site.
As ever,
Dave
Cynthia Hodge passed on the web address to me just before Christmas, and I have been hooked ever since. It is a fantastic site and has brought back so many memories. I have been searching around for any photos and I have managed to find a number which do not appear on the web site, dating back to 1945. I am wondering if you would like them for the site? If so, what is the best way of getting them to you? There are also some items of memorabilia, some anecdotes and some of the missing names on the site etc.
Congratulations to both you and Sheila on such a brilliant web site which I am sure must have taken you many, many hours of hard work.
All best wishes,
Jacqueline Leonard, HGS 1954-62 Holgate House (March 2005)
Dear Jacqueline,
How lovely to hear from you. I am glad that you have enjoyed visiting the HGS site. It has been a pleasure constructing it with Sheila. Thank you very much for the offer of material. Please send whatever you have to me at the site’s address. I will scan everything and then return it to you. Just email any text memories and names to me. I am sure that your material will be much appreciated by the Hilmians who visit the site.
As ever,
Dave
Jacqueline Leonard, Head Girl, 1961-62, gave the following speech at Speech Day 1961.
Head Girl’s Address for Speech Day 1961
I am pleased to report that the girls during the year 1960-61 have been successful both outside and inside the classroom. We had their enthusiastic support in most school activities, and their keenness is shown by the numbers turning out to team practices, choir rehearsals, and other activities connected with the School. The girls have been successful in the academic sphere. Two girls are furthering their education at universities, one of them gaining a County University Exhibition. No less than 13 have gone to Teacher Training Colleges. We hope they will enjoy this training for their future careers.
The sporting activities have been successful on the whole. The 1st Hockey XI had a good season, winning 7 matches, losing 4 and drawing 1. In addition they were runners-up for the shield in the Hemsworth District Hockey Rally. This successful season culminated with the record defeat of the Staff by 8 goals to 1 at the end of the Easter Term.
The 1st Tennis team also had a successful season. They won 7 matches and lost 2, but the 2nd Tennis team, like the 2nd Hockey team, were less successful. Nine members in the 1st Hockey XI and 4 members in the 1st Tennis XI received colours or repeat colours.
The Rounders Under 15 and Under 14 teams had only a fair season, in spite of well-attended practices. The enthusiasm for athletics among the Senior Girls has been confined to just a few, but the Juniors and Intermediates were keenly interested. The highlight in Girl’s Athletics was at the Huddersfield Sports when the Senior Girls won the Shield, and the Juniors and Intermediates were runners-up for their respective divisions. 8 girls were selected to represent the Ackworth area in the Yorkshire Schools’ Championships.
Not only on the playing field do we see the successes of the girls. The choirs have been well supported and both the Main Choir and the Madrigal Choir won shields at the Pontefract Music Festival. There was no competition from other schools, however, much to our disappointment, for the satisfaction of gaining a high percentage of marks is somewhat lessened when there is no opposition. Several members of the choirs took part in the Leeds Festival Choir, and thoroughly enjoyed singing Vaughan-Williams’ “Sea Symphony” with 400 6th Formers from other schools. The musical evening at School was a great success and well attended. Other school activities have had enthusiastic support from the girls. The Seniors have enjoyed the 14 meetings of the Friday Club which was formed for the first time last year, and the Juniors enjoyed the evenings spent at the Film Society.
In conclusion I would like to thank the Headmaster, the Deputy Headmistress, Miss. Smith, and members of staff for the limitless amount of help and encouragement which the girls have received. Without their support the girls could not have had such a successful and rewarding year.
Jacqueline Leonard
I am pleased to report that the girls during the year 1960-61 have been successful both outside and inside the classroom. We had their enthusiastic support in most school activities, and their keenness is shown by the numbers turning out to team practices, choir rehearsals, and other activities connected with the School. The girls have been successful in the academic sphere. Two girls are furthering their education at universities, one of them gaining a County University Exhibition. No less than 13 have gone to Teacher Training Colleges. We hope they will enjoy this training for their future careers.
The sporting activities have been successful on the whole. The 1st Hockey XI had a good season, winning 7 matches, losing 4 and drawing 1. In addition they were runners-up for the shield in the Hemsworth District Hockey Rally. This successful season culminated with the record defeat of the Staff by 8 goals to 1 at the end of the Easter Term.
The 1st Tennis team also had a successful season. They won 7 matches and lost 2, but the 2nd Tennis team, like the 2nd Hockey team, were less successful. Nine members in the 1st Hockey XI and 4 members in the 1st Tennis XI received colours or repeat colours.
The Rounders Under 15 and Under 14 teams had only a fair season, in spite of well-attended practices. The enthusiasm for athletics among the Senior Girls has been confined to just a few, but the Juniors and Intermediates were keenly interested. The highlight in Girl’s Athletics was at the Huddersfield Sports when the Senior Girls won the Shield, and the Juniors and Intermediates were runners-up for their respective divisions. 8 girls were selected to represent the Ackworth area in the Yorkshire Schools’ Championships.
Not only on the playing field do we see the successes of the girls. The choirs have been well supported and both the Main Choir and the Madrigal Choir won shields at the Pontefract Music Festival. There was no competition from other schools, however, much to our disappointment, for the satisfaction of gaining a high percentage of marks is somewhat lessened when there is no opposition. Several members of the choirs took part in the Leeds Festival Choir, and thoroughly enjoyed singing Vaughan-Williams’ “Sea Symphony” with 400 6th Formers from other schools. The musical evening at School was a great success and well attended. Other school activities have had enthusiastic support from the girls. The Seniors have enjoyed the 14 meetings of the Friday Club which was formed for the first time last year, and the Juniors enjoyed the evenings spent at the Film Society.
In conclusion I would like to thank the Headmaster, the Deputy Headmistress, Miss. Smith, and members of staff for the limitless amount of help and encouragement which the girls have received. Without their support the girls could not have had such a successful and rewarding year.
Jacqueline Leonard
Here is the Address of Welcome from the pupils.
This was given in English, French, German and Latin which were the languages taught at the school.
This was given in English, French, German and Latin which were the languages taught at the school.
Peter Kaye
English Pupil Address |
Margaret Birkin
French Pupil Address |
Alan Lascelles
German Pupil Address |
John Street
Latin Pupil Address |
2. Mr Hamilton and Fate
An interview with Mr. Hamilton 1962 including a brief reference to Mr Hamilton's headmaster!
Sheila writes:
I can't remember why I was invited to sit in on this interview, perhaps it was to take notes or to operate the tape recorder. It was the only time I ever went into the Head's Study. Mr. Hamilton sat at his desk and Mick Harrison, Margaret Birkin and I were on the other side with our backs to the door. There may even have been others there too. Mick and Margaret took turns in asking the questions.
Sheila writes:
I can't remember why I was invited to sit in on this interview, perhaps it was to take notes or to operate the tape recorder. It was the only time I ever went into the Head's Study. Mr. Hamilton sat at his desk and Mick Harrison, Margaret Birkin and I were on the other side with our backs to the door. There may even have been others there too. Mick and Margaret took turns in asking the questions.
To mark his twenty-fifth year at Hemsworth Grammar School, the Headmaster was interviewed towards the end of the Spring Term. The tape-recorded interview contained much more material than space permits to be reproduced; it has therefore been edited and the more important extracts are printed below. Our grateful thanks are due to Mr. Hamilton for allowing us time for the interview and for giving us permission to print his opinions. They should be of particular interest to junior members of the School who have not yet had the opportunity of meeting Mr. Hamilton outside the academic sphere.
Q. Why did you choose to come to this area?
A. I didn't choose to come to Hemsworth Grammar School - Fate directed me here. I had been head of my own department for five or six years, and the only prospect of promotion was to apply for a headmastership. I applied for every vacancy that looked at all reasonable, and Hemsworth was just one of them. When I was told by my headmaster that enquiries were being made about me at a place called Hemsworth, I had to admit that I just did not know where it was. My being here is the work of Fate rather than my own choice.
Q. Why did you choose to come to this area?
A. I didn't choose to come to Hemsworth Grammar School - Fate directed me here. I had been head of my own department for five or six years, and the only prospect of promotion was to apply for a headmastership. I applied for every vacancy that looked at all reasonable, and Hemsworth was just one of them. When I was told by my headmaster that enquiries were being made about me at a place called Hemsworth, I had to admit that I just did not know where it was. My being here is the work of Fate rather than my own choice.
HGS Staff 1947-48
Mr Hamilton always set the standard. In assembly he would refer to the school as a family.
This was Miss Smith's second year at HGS.
I remember only 12 of these teachers from my time at HGS, 1955-62, so there were probably many post-war changes within the teaching staff. (Dave)
Back Row L-R: Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jones, Mr. Leonard, Mr Lloyd, Mr. Ward, Mr Smith
Third Row L-R: Mr. Foy, Dr. Sass, Mr. Lock, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Atack, Mr. Morgan-Davies, Mr. Davies, Mr. Blewitt
Second Row L-R: Miss. Davies, Miss. Metcalfe, Miss. Frost, Miss. Thompson, Miss. Bissett, Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. Burn, Miss. Horsfield
Front Row L-R: Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Carter, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning
This was Miss Smith's second year at HGS.
I remember only 12 of these teachers from my time at HGS, 1955-62, so there were probably many post-war changes within the teaching staff. (Dave)
Back Row L-R: Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jones, Mr. Leonard, Mr Lloyd, Mr. Ward, Mr Smith
Third Row L-R: Mr. Foy, Dr. Sass, Mr. Lock, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Atack, Mr. Morgan-Davies, Mr. Davies, Mr. Blewitt
Second Row L-R: Miss. Davies, Miss. Metcalfe, Miss. Frost, Miss. Thompson, Miss. Bissett, Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. Burn, Miss. Horsfield
Front Row L-R: Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Carter, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning
3. Autumn Term 1937 (Mr Hamilton's first)
From the School Magazine
This term began on September 15th., when we welcomed our new Head, Mr. R.W. Hamilton, who comes to us from Bishop Auckland. We would offer to him our best wishes for his happiness here with us, and we hope his reign may be marked by years of successful progress in all the real things for which our School stands.
(Mr Hamilton was appointed as Headmaster at the age of 34.)
This term began on September 15th., when we welcomed our new Head, Mr. R.W. Hamilton, who comes to us from Bishop Auckland. We would offer to him our best wishes for his happiness here with us, and we hope his reign may be marked by years of successful progress in all the real things for which our School stands.
(Mr Hamilton was appointed as Headmaster at the age of 34.)
Miss Shortridge has been appointed Senior Mistress, and to her we offer our congratulations and best wishes for success in her new responsibilities.
As for examination results from last term, we have to record that of the ten pupils who sat Higher School Certificate, six gained the full certificate. We would congratulate Firman on gaining a County Major Scholarship with which he has gone up to Cambridge. In School Certificate, forty sat the examination, thirty-six passed, and thirteen gained exemption from Matriculation.
An innovation has taken place with regard to Houses. On Thursday mornings instead of prayers in Hall, each House meets for its own service conducted by the House Master or House Mistress, and this is followed, by a short business meeting. It is hoped that this will result in the formation of a real feeling for the House and a more intimate knowledge of each other in it.
Those members of the School who stay to dinner have been given the privilege, if they wish to avail themselves of it, of listening to the dinner-hour broadcasts of good music on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and this has been much appreciated. On wet days the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth forms have had dancing in the Hall during the dinner hour.
As for examination results from last term, we have to record that of the ten pupils who sat Higher School Certificate, six gained the full certificate. We would congratulate Firman on gaining a County Major Scholarship with which he has gone up to Cambridge. In School Certificate, forty sat the examination, thirty-six passed, and thirteen gained exemption from Matriculation.
An innovation has taken place with regard to Houses. On Thursday mornings instead of prayers in Hall, each House meets for its own service conducted by the House Master or House Mistress, and this is followed, by a short business meeting. It is hoped that this will result in the formation of a real feeling for the House and a more intimate knowledge of each other in it.
Those members of the School who stay to dinner have been given the privilege, if they wish to avail themselves of it, of listening to the dinner-hour broadcasts of good music on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and this has been much appreciated. On wet days the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth forms have had dancing in the Hall during the dinner hour.
Prefects 1937-38
Photo courtesy of Les Depledge and Dave Nicoll. Thank you.
Back Row L-R: Algernon Wilson, Les Wilson, Harold Bailey, Ronald Gleave, Cecil Edmund Perry
Third Row L-R: George Robinson, Donald McAllister, Harold Johnson, Arthur Jessop, Adrian Courtney, Cyril Mellor, Michael Walker (Head Boy)
Second Row L-R: Olive Boulton, Joan Senior, Mary Ineson, Eva Harris, Elsie Stamp (Head Girl), Matilda Cunningham, Elsie Smith, Janet Earl, Margaret Berry
Front Row L-R: Alice Rogerson, Margaret Twaddle, Kathleen Lawton, Constance Hannah White, Audrey Jenkinson
Boys: Walker (Head Boy), Allen, Bailey, Chapman, C., Courtney, Jessop, A.E., Johnson, Gleave, Mellor, Moore, Nuttall, Perry, Robinson, Wilson, L.
Girls: E. Stamp (Head Girl), M. Berry, G. Boulton, M. Cunningham, J. Earl, E. Harris, M. Ineson, A. Jenkinson, K. Lawton, A. Rogerson, J. Senior, E. Smith, R. Sterry, M. Twaddle, C. White
On November 3rd., a party of Fifth and Sixth form pupils visited Ackworth to attend a performance of “Le medecin malgre lui” and “Gringoire” which was much appreciated by all.
Back Row L-R: Algernon Wilson, Les Wilson, Harold Bailey, Ronald Gleave, Cecil Edmund Perry
Third Row L-R: George Robinson, Donald McAllister, Harold Johnson, Arthur Jessop, Adrian Courtney, Cyril Mellor, Michael Walker (Head Boy)
Second Row L-R: Olive Boulton, Joan Senior, Mary Ineson, Eva Harris, Elsie Stamp (Head Girl), Matilda Cunningham, Elsie Smith, Janet Earl, Margaret Berry
Front Row L-R: Alice Rogerson, Margaret Twaddle, Kathleen Lawton, Constance Hannah White, Audrey Jenkinson
Boys: Walker (Head Boy), Allen, Bailey, Chapman, C., Courtney, Jessop, A.E., Johnson, Gleave, Mellor, Moore, Nuttall, Perry, Robinson, Wilson, L.
Girls: E. Stamp (Head Girl), M. Berry, G. Boulton, M. Cunningham, J. Earl, E. Harris, M. Ineson, A. Jenkinson, K. Lawton, A. Rogerson, J. Senior, E. Smith, R. Sterry, M. Twaddle, C. White
On November 3rd., a party of Fifth and Sixth form pupils visited Ackworth to attend a performance of “Le medecin malgre lui” and “Gringoire” which was much appreciated by all.
Miss E.W. Townsend (Music)
Speech Day took place on Wednesday November 10th. in the Hippodrome, when the visitors were Mr. A.L. Binns, Director of the West Riding County Education Committee, and Mrs. Binns who very kindly distributed the prizes and cups. Miss Townsend and all who took part in the musical programme are to be congratulated upon a finely executed and varied performance. The accompanists were: H. Noble, O. Robinson, M. Sykes and A.L. Courtney.
Forms 1B and 1C performed the songs: "Hark! Hark! the Lark"; "Jim the carter lad"; "Loch Lomond".
The Percussion Band, formed from members of Forms 2C and 1A, performed the "Military March".
The Girls' Choir sang: "The Violet" (unaccompanied); The China Mandarin"; "Now on land and sea descending".
Miss E.W. Townsed played two piano solos: "March Humoreske" (Dohnanyi) and Etude (Chopin)
The Boys' Choir sang: "Widdecombe Fair" and "Ye gentlemen of England".
Armistice Day on November 11th., was kept as usual by a service in the Hall, at which the Two Minutes were observed, and the Headmaster addressed the School. The hymns “O valiant hearts” and “For all the Saints” were sung, appropriate prayers said, and the National Anthem brought an impressive service to a close.
On November 18th., the Osiris Players again visited the School, this year to give “As You Like It”. The whole School was present and much enjoyed the performance. Rehearsals for the School Play, which this year is “She Stoops to Conquer”, are going forward, and we offer all the actors our best wishes for their success.
As Christmas and the holidays approach we wish Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton, the Staff and all our readers a very happy Christmas and enjoyable holidays
Forms 1B and 1C performed the songs: "Hark! Hark! the Lark"; "Jim the carter lad"; "Loch Lomond".
The Percussion Band, formed from members of Forms 2C and 1A, performed the "Military March".
The Girls' Choir sang: "The Violet" (unaccompanied); The China Mandarin"; "Now on land and sea descending".
Miss E.W. Townsed played two piano solos: "March Humoreske" (Dohnanyi) and Etude (Chopin)
The Boys' Choir sang: "Widdecombe Fair" and "Ye gentlemen of England".
Armistice Day on November 11th., was kept as usual by a service in the Hall, at which the Two Minutes were observed, and the Headmaster addressed the School. The hymns “O valiant hearts” and “For all the Saints” were sung, appropriate prayers said, and the National Anthem brought an impressive service to a close.
On November 18th., the Osiris Players again visited the School, this year to give “As You Like It”. The whole School was present and much enjoyed the performance. Rehearsals for the School Play, which this year is “She Stoops to Conquer”, are going forward, and we offer all the actors our best wishes for their success.
As Christmas and the holidays approach we wish Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton, the Staff and all our readers a very happy Christmas and enjoyable holidays
4. Speech Day 1930
Lord Middleton's Speech
Lord Middleton's Speech
1. Note of encouragement
After apologising for the absence of Lady Middleton, Lord Middleton congratulated all those who had received prizes and certificates, which were the result of hard work and industry. He hoped that those pupils who had not won anything would realise that there were other things which mattered in their school lives - knowledge and character. Successes in these often mattered just as much, so there was no need to feel downhearted. He explained that he served on an education committee in the East Riding, doing the finances and investigating new schemes. He found that there always seemed to be two schools of thought about the money spent on education. Some taxpayers would have liked to cut down by half on the amount spent, and conversely others would say that they were spending only half of what they should, as the need for more education was enormous. The country was spending millions on education as an investment in the future. When the younger generation grew up, the country would then be lifted and pushed along the road of progress to take its place among other nations and not be left behind. Individuals would be equipped well for the battle of life, and for the competition in trade and business. These were the benefits of investing in education. "If those results are successful," he asked, "don't you think that we who have had the money spent on us at school can be rightly be called to put something back? I think we can, for it is not an unfair demand. There is no country in the world where exist such opportunities for public service as in England." He continued that there were many roads to that public service, such as by the Boy Scouts, or Toc H, for instance, which were fine institutions for rendering service for their fellow countrymen.
2. The Coming Struggle - "Leave Politics Alone"
"Yesterday," said Lord Middleton, "we were commemorating a great sacrifice which I hope none of you will be called upon to undertake, but there are heroes of peace as well as of war, and perhaps that may be your portion. There are enormous problems to face in this country, and the men of my generation will not be able to deal with all of them. They will be on the heads of the rising generation. I wish you success, and trust you will solve those at which we have failed. The big troubles in the country today are unemployment and trade depression. Brought up as a simple soldier, I do not understand the ways of politicians, which baffle me. All parties say that if you believe in them they will cure our troubles, but when they get in they do not seem to do it, and I would advise you boys and girls to leave politics alone. The main reason we are in a mess today is because we are paying our debts. We have a burden of taxation which will continue until your children's time, because we have manfully and honestly come up to scratch. Honesty is our only policy. We are paying our debts and trying at the same time to maintain our social services. It is not easy and sometimes we see causes for discouragement, but you children will have to tackle these problems, for upon the boys and girls of today depends the future prosperity of this country."
3. The Promised Land
Lord Middleton went on to say that despite the fact that there were 2.25 millions unemployed, there were more men in employment in 1930 than before the war. This meant that there were more people in the country than could be employed, and there had been no discernable national policy to scientifically distribute the population within the Empire. He had visited Canada to investigate the prospects, and he was now firmly convinced that there were better opportunities in Canada compared with Britain, with proper security there, and a good living to be made. Hemsworth Secondary School had already shown the way in this matter.
A comprehensive vote of thanks was moved by Coun. A. Flavell, and seconded by Mrs. Guest.
After apologising for the absence of Lady Middleton, Lord Middleton congratulated all those who had received prizes and certificates, which were the result of hard work and industry. He hoped that those pupils who had not won anything would realise that there were other things which mattered in their school lives - knowledge and character. Successes in these often mattered just as much, so there was no need to feel downhearted. He explained that he served on an education committee in the East Riding, doing the finances and investigating new schemes. He found that there always seemed to be two schools of thought about the money spent on education. Some taxpayers would have liked to cut down by half on the amount spent, and conversely others would say that they were spending only half of what they should, as the need for more education was enormous. The country was spending millions on education as an investment in the future. When the younger generation grew up, the country would then be lifted and pushed along the road of progress to take its place among other nations and not be left behind. Individuals would be equipped well for the battle of life, and for the competition in trade and business. These were the benefits of investing in education. "If those results are successful," he asked, "don't you think that we who have had the money spent on us at school can be rightly be called to put something back? I think we can, for it is not an unfair demand. There is no country in the world where exist such opportunities for public service as in England." He continued that there were many roads to that public service, such as by the Boy Scouts, or Toc H, for instance, which were fine institutions for rendering service for their fellow countrymen.
2. The Coming Struggle - "Leave Politics Alone"
"Yesterday," said Lord Middleton, "we were commemorating a great sacrifice which I hope none of you will be called upon to undertake, but there are heroes of peace as well as of war, and perhaps that may be your portion. There are enormous problems to face in this country, and the men of my generation will not be able to deal with all of them. They will be on the heads of the rising generation. I wish you success, and trust you will solve those at which we have failed. The big troubles in the country today are unemployment and trade depression. Brought up as a simple soldier, I do not understand the ways of politicians, which baffle me. All parties say that if you believe in them they will cure our troubles, but when they get in they do not seem to do it, and I would advise you boys and girls to leave politics alone. The main reason we are in a mess today is because we are paying our debts. We have a burden of taxation which will continue until your children's time, because we have manfully and honestly come up to scratch. Honesty is our only policy. We are paying our debts and trying at the same time to maintain our social services. It is not easy and sometimes we see causes for discouragement, but you children will have to tackle these problems, for upon the boys and girls of today depends the future prosperity of this country."
3. The Promised Land
Lord Middleton went on to say that despite the fact that there were 2.25 millions unemployed, there were more men in employment in 1930 than before the war. This meant that there were more people in the country than could be employed, and there had been no discernable national policy to scientifically distribute the population within the Empire. He had visited Canada to investigate the prospects, and he was now firmly convinced that there were better opportunities in Canada compared with Britain, with proper security there, and a good living to be made. Hemsworth Secondary School had already shown the way in this matter.
A comprehensive vote of thanks was moved by Coun. A. Flavell, and seconded by Mrs. Guest.
5. Memories of Staff from Mr Sale
Mr Owen
My immediate superior was Cyril Owen who was a fine and enthusiastic Chemistry teacher who as Head of Science sought to keep the department running smoothly even through the changes to the new Science block that was built. He made great play of the individual and autonomous running of each department as well as the effective interplay of each member in the teaching of General Science. He produced various staff plays with efficiency with a care for detail that was legendary. He was a very talented personality to whom I owe a great deal for he nurtured whatever talents I possessed as well as instilling personal discipline and enthusiasm. Cyril was always a very private person whilst maintaining a high level of respect for everyone he had contact with.
I remember Miss. Metcalfe well, not only as a superb teacher but as a willing lady in every aspect of school life - in particular the school plays. The girls in their hearts loved Domestic Science and I knew a number of boys who dearly would have studied the subject if they had been allowed. But Metalwork and Woodwork were the 'male' things until attitudes in society did change. The latter subjects were run by Mr. Atack who was a further superb teacher who knew his subject, thoroughly inspiring confidence and progress in the boys.
HGS Staff Cricket Team 1955-56
Back Row L-R: Mr. Dodd, Mr. Colley
Middle Row L-R: Mr. Tate, Mr, Wharton, Mr. Bulley, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Manning
Front Row L-R: Mr. Taylor, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Walker, Mr. Sale
Middle Row L-R: Mr. Tate, Mr, Wharton, Mr. Bulley, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Manning
Front Row L-R: Mr. Taylor, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Walker, Mr. Sale
Mr Bulley
Mr. John Bulley was someone whom I admired as I got to know him. He taught History but not from a bookish angle but from his vast experience of the subject matter, bringing the subject to life. He was a superb teacher and the children warmed to him and his approach. On the sports field, namely playing cricket, he opened the batting for the staff. John was not a classical stroke player, but his ability to nudge, clip and squeeze the ball square and behind the wicket was most effective. He was a good fielder but I always noticed RWH always positioned him at square leg which is a horrid position to be in. He was always lively in the field and his patience was often rewarded with the occasional difficult catch.
Mr Stewart
Mr. Stewart was a superb teacher and brilliant mathematician and really inspired the youngsters. He was a steady bowler always on a length and quite tricky to bat against, but only medium pace and thus not too menacing, but he was very penetrating if the batsman was not wary. I think RWH must have had a sort of intuition to recognise talented people and appoint them without delay because he really did compose a fine and capable staff.
Mr Pacy
After Mr. Stewart left to go to Leeds, his replacement was one George Pacy, an ex-Rugby league forward, very powerful but as gentle as a brush. He was an excellent disciplinarian as well as a good teacher. Anyway who would want to cross swords with a really tough Arnold Schwarzenegger type, so the boys always toed the line! At cricket he would bowl thunderbolts slightly short of a length and if the batsmen were not skilled, they invariably got out. But these two gentlemen (Messrs. Stewart and Pacy) bowled from the School end which was flat with a good run-up. They let me bowl at the undulating end which was difficult to bowl from as one approached the wickets at a slight slope upwards. I remember it well, and doing all I could to control the ball and be menacing. Not always successfully either, except on Saturdays when I bowled from the flat end because I was the captain! I certainly took more wickets from that end. George was a happy go lucky chap and I was privileged to meet him and enjoy his friendship and company at HGS.
Ken Sale, HGS Staff 1955-61
6. Aspects of the House System
Why a House system?
I think that of all the House reports I have typed, the 1950 set actually put into words what the House system was trying to achieve at HGS.
a. A good standard of behaviour in School.
b. A sense of “team spirit” within each House. Helping one another to achieve a desired outcome.
c. A “bonding” of certain member-teachers to the pupils within each House.
d. The inclusion of the many and varied talents of the pupils (music, sports, drama etc) to form a common goal - winning the Challenge Cup.
e. The realisation that whatever your behaviour in School, your quarter of the School’s population would either suffer the consequences of it, or share in its credit.
f. The knowledge that everything each pupil did in School was open to scrutiny by one’s peers and superiors, and encouragement or despair would be expressed.
g. The openly expressed belief that competition would drive up standards.
An overall view of the pupil
There was a House record on the back page our Report Books. Mine was filled in for the whole of my HGS school life by the Holgate Teacher, Miss Kath Ward. It listed involvement in Music Competitions, House Dramatics, Swimming, Netball, Hockey, Tennis, Athletics, House Relay Team, and added to these, in the 6th year House Vice-Captain, 7th year House Captain. How did we ever have time for lessons!
Sheila
I think that of all the House reports I have typed, the 1950 set actually put into words what the House system was trying to achieve at HGS.
a. A good standard of behaviour in School.
b. A sense of “team spirit” within each House. Helping one another to achieve a desired outcome.
c. A “bonding” of certain member-teachers to the pupils within each House.
d. The inclusion of the many and varied talents of the pupils (music, sports, drama etc) to form a common goal - winning the Challenge Cup.
e. The realisation that whatever your behaviour in School, your quarter of the School’s population would either suffer the consequences of it, or share in its credit.
f. The knowledge that everything each pupil did in School was open to scrutiny by one’s peers and superiors, and encouragement or despair would be expressed.
g. The openly expressed belief that competition would drive up standards.
An overall view of the pupil
There was a House record on the back page our Report Books. Mine was filled in for the whole of my HGS school life by the Holgate Teacher, Miss Kath Ward. It listed involvement in Music Competitions, House Dramatics, Swimming, Netball, Hockey, Tennis, Athletics, House Relay Team, and added to these, in the 6th year House Vice-Captain, 7th year House Captain. How did we ever have time for lessons!
Sheila
House Competitions
Here is a photo from 1952-53 showing the successful Talbot Athletics team. To win on Sports Day as a House took not only a joint effort from the chosen athletes but also the support of the House Staff. This photo illustrates that perfectly. The House system certainly had its merits. If you could not represent the school you may well be able to represent your House at the many activities which were involved in the House Competitions.
Here is a photo from 1952-53 showing the successful Talbot Athletics team. To win on Sports Day as a House took not only a joint effort from the chosen athletes but also the support of the House Staff. This photo illustrates that perfectly. The House system certainly had its merits. If you could not represent the school you may well be able to represent your House at the many activities which were involved in the House Competitions.
The Talbot House Athletics Team 1952-53
The photo was taken on the Forecourt at the front of the school.
The photo was taken on the Forecourt at the front of the school.
Thanks go to Terry McCroakam for the photo.
Back Row L-R: Miss. Horsfield, Miss. Saville, Miss. Kilner, Mr. Senior, Mr Owen, Mr. Collins, Mr. Atack, Mr. Swinbank,
Third Row L-R: Margaret Christian, Terry McCroakam, Alan Ardron, Roy Gaskell, David King, Arthur Swaine, Michael Batten
Second Row L-R: Valerie Higham, Doreen Honeyben, Brenda Ackroyd, Margaret Butterfield, John Butterfield, Trevor Trueman, Joe Pearson, Michael Poole
Front row L-R: Jennifer Lindley, June Bradley, Florence Gell, Tony Foster, George Thompson, Roland Hawcroft
Back Row L-R: Miss. Horsfield, Miss. Saville, Miss. Kilner, Mr. Senior, Mr Owen, Mr. Collins, Mr. Atack, Mr. Swinbank,
Third Row L-R: Margaret Christian, Terry McCroakam, Alan Ardron, Roy Gaskell, David King, Arthur Swaine, Michael Batten
Second Row L-R: Valerie Higham, Doreen Honeyben, Brenda Ackroyd, Margaret Butterfield, John Butterfield, Trevor Trueman, Joe Pearson, Michael Poole
Front row L-R: Jennifer Lindley, June Bradley, Florence Gell, Tony Foster, George Thompson, Roland Hawcroft
When teachers were appointed to the HGS Staff they were also linked with a House for the duration of their stay. Only rarely could they move to a different House.
The use of the School Magazines in the 1930s for matters to do with the four Houses.
Below are examples from the School Magazine No. 29 Autumn Term 1933-34 and it can be seen that the pupils were addressed directly.
Below are examples from the School Magazine No. 29 Autumn Term 1933-34 and it can be seen that the pupils were addressed directly.
Holgate House Notes
Last year Holgate won the School cup for the first time in several years. We hope the wave of enthusiasm for all house matters will continue in the middle and lower school, and will extend to the seniors. Probably none of you will remember the last time Holgate won the Challenge Cup, but as you can see from the records in the Hall we held it for three years in succession and surely we can do that again. Now let us extend a hearty welcome to all new members. We may not know you all personally, yet we hope you will do your best for the House. There are complaints even in the first term. Hockey and Netball practices are not at all satisfactory. Girls absent themselves on the very slightest pretext. This is very unsporting and unfair to really keen members of the House. At Rugby also we notice a scarcity of senior Holgate boys turning out for games. This must be remedied before the House matches next term. With reference to stars and stripes we congratulate ourselves on being the first to cross the line and appear on the positive side of the graph. This would have happened sooner if it had not been for the heroic efforts of some people who take a pleasure in reaping in a large number of stripes, thus spoiling the good work of the rest of the House. More thought and enthusiasm is needed please. Remember, no stripes, plenty of stars and as many points as possible. The last may be obtained in many ways, such as being well placed in the quarterly orders. Also there is nowadays a strange dearth of send-ups, which are a valuable source of points. Boys please notice this and do not leave it all to the girls. Now let us thank E. Cullingworth, E. Keeling and Whittle who take such a keen, though voluntary, interest in games. In conclusion let us thank Miss Clifford and Mr. Collette for their valuable help during the term.
I. Farmery, Perry, H. S.
Last year Holgate won the School cup for the first time in several years. We hope the wave of enthusiasm for all house matters will continue in the middle and lower school, and will extend to the seniors. Probably none of you will remember the last time Holgate won the Challenge Cup, but as you can see from the records in the Hall we held it for three years in succession and surely we can do that again. Now let us extend a hearty welcome to all new members. We may not know you all personally, yet we hope you will do your best for the House. There are complaints even in the first term. Hockey and Netball practices are not at all satisfactory. Girls absent themselves on the very slightest pretext. This is very unsporting and unfair to really keen members of the House. At Rugby also we notice a scarcity of senior Holgate boys turning out for games. This must be remedied before the House matches next term. With reference to stars and stripes we congratulate ourselves on being the first to cross the line and appear on the positive side of the graph. This would have happened sooner if it had not been for the heroic efforts of some people who take a pleasure in reaping in a large number of stripes, thus spoiling the good work of the rest of the House. More thought and enthusiasm is needed please. Remember, no stripes, plenty of stars and as many points as possible. The last may be obtained in many ways, such as being well placed in the quarterly orders. Also there is nowadays a strange dearth of send-ups, which are a valuable source of points. Boys please notice this and do not leave it all to the girls. Now let us thank E. Cullingworth, E. Keeling and Whittle who take such a keen, though voluntary, interest in games. In conclusion let us thank Miss Clifford and Mr. Collette for their valuable help during the term.
I. Farmery, Perry, H. S.
Mr Collette
Talbot House Notes
The beginning of another School year introduces new scholars, and to those who have been made members of Talbot House we are now speaking. First you must learn to cultivate a loyal House-spirit, and realise that everything you do affects your House either for better or for worse. Talbot suffers from individual independence; the majority of our members work for stars merely to cancel stripes which could easily been avoided. Such offences as “disobedience and impudence” or “homework not done” are absolutely inexcusable. Unfortunately those people who have been in School for three or four years do not set the juniors an example which in any way helps their House. In future then, let us all try and work together so that we may once more be holders of the House Cup. This year Talbot has had the honour of providing for the School both the Head Girl and the Head Boy - Sybil Howson and J. N. Thorpe. Although we regret this loss to the actual House itself we must congratulate them and wish them all success. Since there have been no House Competitions this year other than the old one of stars or stripes, there has not been much opportunity for us to pull up our position from second to first. Although we are only second, Holgate has a good lead which is gradually increasing every week, and if we slack now, at the very beginning of the year, we cannot expect to find ourselves on top. Practise hard on the games field, show you have ingenuity by providing send-ups, work with all your might for your House so that you may be the one of whom Talbot House is proud. We have a most enthusiastic House Mistress in Miss Shortridge, and a responsible House Master in Mr. Storer; let us see to it that we do not fail them. To both we offer our most sincere thanks and appreciation for the help they have given us this term.
K. Perry. Thorpe, R. H.
The beginning of another School year introduces new scholars, and to those who have been made members of Talbot House we are now speaking. First you must learn to cultivate a loyal House-spirit, and realise that everything you do affects your House either for better or for worse. Talbot suffers from individual independence; the majority of our members work for stars merely to cancel stripes which could easily been avoided. Such offences as “disobedience and impudence” or “homework not done” are absolutely inexcusable. Unfortunately those people who have been in School for three or four years do not set the juniors an example which in any way helps their House. In future then, let us all try and work together so that we may once more be holders of the House Cup. This year Talbot has had the honour of providing for the School both the Head Girl and the Head Boy - Sybil Howson and J. N. Thorpe. Although we regret this loss to the actual House itself we must congratulate them and wish them all success. Since there have been no House Competitions this year other than the old one of stars or stripes, there has not been much opportunity for us to pull up our position from second to first. Although we are only second, Holgate has a good lead which is gradually increasing every week, and if we slack now, at the very beginning of the year, we cannot expect to find ourselves on top. Practise hard on the games field, show you have ingenuity by providing send-ups, work with all your might for your House so that you may be the one of whom Talbot House is proud. We have a most enthusiastic House Mistress in Miss Shortridge, and a responsible House Master in Mr. Storer; let us see to it that we do not fail them. To both we offer our most sincere thanks and appreciation for the help they have given us this term.
K. Perry. Thorpe, R. H.
Price House Notes
Price, we are determined to make a name for ourselves this year, and to do this we must make the most of every opportunity, whether academically, in the shape of send-ups, stars and high positions in class, or in sports. We have been unable to express ourselves adequately in this comparatively uneventful term, in which the sports field has been closed to us. Consequently the intellectual sphere assumed a greater importance in proportion. But the stripe board gives evidence that the majority of us, especially the boys, have completely failed to grasp this fact and make the most of their opportunities in this direction. It is up to us all to pull together and make up for this deficiency next term. We propose to adorn the member who distinguishes himself or herself most in such endeavours with our honours’ badge bearing our motto “AGE QUID AGAS.” We may not all be able to wear the badge but we can all adopt the motto as our own and, acting accordingly, bask together in the sunshine and glory, which radiates from the House Cup - the reward of our united efforts. Once more we owe our thanks to Miss Mullinder, Miss Wright, Mr. Manning and Mr. Austin, our House Masters and Mistresses, for their kind assistance during the term.
Millicent Webb. Wainwright, C.
Price, we are determined to make a name for ourselves this year, and to do this we must make the most of every opportunity, whether academically, in the shape of send-ups, stars and high positions in class, or in sports. We have been unable to express ourselves adequately in this comparatively uneventful term, in which the sports field has been closed to us. Consequently the intellectual sphere assumed a greater importance in proportion. But the stripe board gives evidence that the majority of us, especially the boys, have completely failed to grasp this fact and make the most of their opportunities in this direction. It is up to us all to pull together and make up for this deficiency next term. We propose to adorn the member who distinguishes himself or herself most in such endeavours with our honours’ badge bearing our motto “AGE QUID AGAS.” We may not all be able to wear the badge but we can all adopt the motto as our own and, acting accordingly, bask together in the sunshine and glory, which radiates from the House Cup - the reward of our united efforts. Once more we owe our thanks to Miss Mullinder, Miss Wright, Mr. Manning and Mr. Austin, our House Masters and Mistresses, for their kind assistance during the term.
Millicent Webb. Wainwright, C.
Guest House Notes
This term sees an influx of new members into Guest House, and to all of them we extend a hearty welcome, together with the hope that they will do sterling work for their new House. This term, opportunities for gaining points have not been very numerous, and for that reason the importance of scholastic successes and the value of stars and stripes can scarcely be stressed too much. With regard to the latter item, we have not fared at all well, and therefore it is imperative that all members should make valiant efforts to remedy this deficiency. It is of paramount importance to us that our House should once again resume its former position in the School, and it is impossible to achieve this without your active aid and cooperation. It is well within everyone’s capabilities to assist the House in some practical way, and if this were carried out only in a small way, we should gain great value from it. With this in mind therefore, we urge you to do your utmost to assist the House in any opportunity which falls to your lot. It is with great surprise and delight that we have learned of the success of our House in the competition for the Arts Cup, and we offer our hearty congratulations to all members who actively participated in the gaining of it. To Miss Prince and Mr. Shiells, we tender our sincere thanks for their unfailing and invaluable support throughout the term.
Estelle Rhodes. Leeming, R.
This term sees an influx of new members into Guest House, and to all of them we extend a hearty welcome, together with the hope that they will do sterling work for their new House. This term, opportunities for gaining points have not been very numerous, and for that reason the importance of scholastic successes and the value of stars and stripes can scarcely be stressed too much. With regard to the latter item, we have not fared at all well, and therefore it is imperative that all members should make valiant efforts to remedy this deficiency. It is of paramount importance to us that our House should once again resume its former position in the School, and it is impossible to achieve this without your active aid and cooperation. It is well within everyone’s capabilities to assist the House in some practical way, and if this were carried out only in a small way, we should gain great value from it. With this in mind therefore, we urge you to do your utmost to assist the House in any opportunity which falls to your lot. It is with great surprise and delight that we have learned of the success of our House in the competition for the Arts Cup, and we offer our hearty congratulations to all members who actively participated in the gaining of it. To Miss Prince and Mr. Shiells, we tender our sincere thanks for their unfailing and invaluable support throughout the term.
Estelle Rhodes. Leeming, R.
From the Number 29 School Magazine, here are the House Challenge Cup results
1st Holgate 1086½ points.
2nd Talbot 964½ points.
3rd Guest 891 points.
4th Price 831½ points.
This raises the question: Who recorded, collated and analysed the results for all of the House Activities.This was a very considerable and important job.
1st Holgate 1086½ points.
2nd Talbot 964½ points.
3rd Guest 891 points.
4th Price 831½ points.
This raises the question: Who recorded, collated and analysed the results for all of the House Activities.This was a very considerable and important job.
7. A poignant moment from Speech Day 1967
Mr Hamilton in 1967
In some respects it was a very sad day. Mr Hamilton retired at the end of the Autumn Term. He was 65 years old and had commenced his service to HGS in 1937 at the age of 34. At times the stress must have been enormous and seemingly never ending. I sometimes wonder how he ever slept. Especially would this have been so during the years of WW2.
An extract from Mr Hamilton's address to the Hippodrome audience.
Re-organisation of all education in the Hemsworth district was now well under way, said Mr. Hamilton. The physical expansion of their own buildings was taking shape. The date of the changeover was still September 1968, but his own feeling was that they could still not be certain of the exact date. Great efforts were being made and all hoped that the dead-line will be met. “It will be good if it does happen as planned,” said Mr. Hamilton. “The air of uncertainty has been with us too long. Everybody will feel a sense of relief when the changeover actually takes place. Problems of course will abound. Nevertheless, the goodwill of all concerned, and determination on the part of the administrators and staff to make the new system at least as good as the old, will undoubtedly go a long way to solve those problems. Prodigious these will have to be to ensure this. All the signs are that this will be forthcoming.”
Stating that this was his last report, Mr. Hamilton expressed his thanks for all the help he had been given. “I will not pretend there have never been moments of stress and difficulty,” he said, “but through all the years, I have been sustained by the knowledge that friendships and goodwill were being extended to me by those whom I have tried to serve.” The pupils, many of them men and women now, with families of their own, had amply repaid his efforts on their behalf by their own successes in life. From his Boards of Governors he had received sympathy, help and support in all his endeavours. He thanked the staff and added “Whatever worthy of praise had been accomplished during my headship just could not have been done without the loyal support, vigour, drive and energy of the staff.” Mr. Hamilton closed by saying, “I take my leave of you, confident that my colleagues will do their utmost to make a success of the new order of things.”
An extract from Mr Hamilton's address to the Hippodrome audience.
Re-organisation of all education in the Hemsworth district was now well under way, said Mr. Hamilton. The physical expansion of their own buildings was taking shape. The date of the changeover was still September 1968, but his own feeling was that they could still not be certain of the exact date. Great efforts were being made and all hoped that the dead-line will be met. “It will be good if it does happen as planned,” said Mr. Hamilton. “The air of uncertainty has been with us too long. Everybody will feel a sense of relief when the changeover actually takes place. Problems of course will abound. Nevertheless, the goodwill of all concerned, and determination on the part of the administrators and staff to make the new system at least as good as the old, will undoubtedly go a long way to solve those problems. Prodigious these will have to be to ensure this. All the signs are that this will be forthcoming.”
Stating that this was his last report, Mr. Hamilton expressed his thanks for all the help he had been given. “I will not pretend there have never been moments of stress and difficulty,” he said, “but through all the years, I have been sustained by the knowledge that friendships and goodwill were being extended to me by those whom I have tried to serve.” The pupils, many of them men and women now, with families of their own, had amply repaid his efforts on their behalf by their own successes in life. From his Boards of Governors he had received sympathy, help and support in all his endeavours. He thanked the staff and added “Whatever worthy of praise had been accomplished during my headship just could not have been done without the loyal support, vigour, drive and energy of the staff.” Mr. Hamilton closed by saying, “I take my leave of you, confident that my colleagues will do their utmost to make a success of the new order of things.”
Terry McCroakam
Comment
HGS comes to an end
My last memory of Mr Hamilton was seeing him at the top of the stairs by Room 10. It was the last day of the Christmas term 1967 and everyone had gone home. I think I may have been the last person to see him looking down over what had been his pride and joy for 30 years. I suspect he was thinking how it had been and not how it was at that time.
Terry McCroakam,
HGS Head Boy and Staff Member
HGS comes to an end
My last memory of Mr Hamilton was seeing him at the top of the stairs by Room 10. It was the last day of the Christmas term 1967 and everyone had gone home. I think I may have been the last person to see him looking down over what had been his pride and joy for 30 years. I suspect he was thinking how it had been and not how it was at that time.
Terry McCroakam,
HGS Head Boy and Staff Member
8. The HGS Staff and Drama
1955 "The White Sheep of the Family"
This photo was contributed by Miss. Ward. Thank you.
L-R: Mr. Farrar (Sam Jackson), Miss Collins (Janet), Mr. Walker (The Vicar), Miss Kilner (Mrs. Winter), Mr. Hamilton (Mr. Winter), Miss Elliot (Pat), Mr. Owen (Peter), Miss Whitworth (Angela Preston), Mr. Bulley (Mr. Preston)
L-R: Mr. Farrar (Sam Jackson), Miss Collins (Janet), Mr. Walker (The Vicar), Miss Kilner (Mrs. Winter), Mr. Hamilton (Mr. Winter), Miss Elliot (Pat), Mr. Owen (Peter), Miss Whitworth (Angela Preston), Mr. Bulley (Mr. Preston)
In the 1950s, TVs were not ubiquitous, computers were non-existent and in my family, evening entertainment at home was mainly based upon small social gatherings of close relatives. In the local community, these Staff and School plays were certainly something to look forward to and were very well attended. They were "professionally done". The staff had their normal teaching duties to do during the day and on the three evenings of the play their days were considerably extended. Tiredness must have been a factor but the staff wanted to be involved in the productions. Many of the HGS teaching staff, not just the performers, wanted to be involved in some way. I must add that I do not think Mr Hamilton ever missed taking part in a Staff Play. He did not seem to suffer from nerves.
Four photographs taken in Miss Metcalfe's Domestic Science Room
Mr Hamilton gets his makeup from Mr Burnell
Makeup and costume ready
Time to check the lines
Time to relax before Curtain Up
I don't think Mr Hamilton had much time to relax during the working day. He set a fine example and was on duty the whole time. He even lived on site for 30 years in the Headmaster's House. When the Staff Play was being performed, his days were even longer and demanded that extra effort. He was not a machine and needed to relax like any other human being.
I don't think Mr Hamilton had much time to relax during the working day. He set a fine example and was on duty the whole time. He even lived on site for 30 years in the Headmaster's House. When the Staff Play was being performed, his days were even longer and demanded that extra effort. He was not a machine and needed to relax like any other human being.
During my time at HGS (1955-62), I attended many, if not all, of the Staff Plays. In the Main Hall, welcoming music would be played. The metal chairs were formally arranged (photo above) and it was easy to find your designated place. The chairs were quite comfortable as they had fabric bases and backs. The wooden ones that we used during the day in lessons may well have caused obvious problems. As people found their seats, the air of expectancy could be sensed. The audience would check their programmes to see who was playing which part. The conversation was always quiet and respectful to others in the audience. In a general sense I suppose society at that time was rather different. I found these evenings to be very pleasant. Refreshments were served during the interval(s). Mr Collette was usually in charge of that and there were many customers. The Hall temperature built up during the performance as there were so many people in the audience. This ensured good sales of ice cream. When the lights dimmed the conversations stopped, the curtains opened and the play began. I thoroughly enjoyed them all, and the total experience.
Dave
Dave
9. A connection with Mr Collette
Just to say that I am one of the grandchildren of Mr. Leslie Collette (from his daughter Barbara), former Senior Master at Hemsworth Grammar School. The stories on your fabulous website chime well with my fond memories of him. I remember him singing First World War songs to me as a child, feeding me egg and bacon from his seat in a favourite armchair in the kitchen in his Hemsworth home and playing putting golf on the lawn of 123 Barnsley Road.
The wheel turns but we only return back to where we began; childhood memories.
Kind regards,
Adrian Wildfire
P.S. He was an absolute stickler for correct and appropriate English grammar. God forfend I should forget a capital letter for a country or use a comma instead of a colon before a list. I have retained this 'idée fix' as an adult and tut-tut at street names missing an apostrophe. Catastrophe.
15 Dec 2019
The wheel turns but we only return back to where we began; childhood memories.
Kind regards,
Adrian Wildfire
P.S. He was an absolute stickler for correct and appropriate English grammar. God forfend I should forget a capital letter for a country or use a comma instead of a colon before a list. I have retained this 'idée fix' as an adult and tut-tut at street names missing an apostrophe. Catastrophe.
15 Dec 2019
Sheila Kelsall
Dear Adrian,
What a lovely surprise to hear from you! The memories of your Grandfather are sprinkled throughout our website, and Mr. Collette (as we knew him) was 'in post' throughout the schooldays of both Dave and I (1955-1962). It was a time when teachers swept down the corridors wearing gowns, and great respect was afforded to both Mr. Collette and Miss Smith who were Senior Staff.
Discipline was strict both in academic work and behaviour, and this ethos was established and maintained from the top down. If you haven't already done this, I would urge you to look in the Forum section of our website, especially in 1.8 and 1.9 where Mr. Collette is mentioned. As your Grandfather was at HGS during the War, I think he may have been involved in the activities of the Air Training Corps from 1941 onwards. Did he ever speak of this to you? He was also a specialist in Commercial subjects, and taught book-keeping in the early years of the School. An important side of teaching at HGS was the extra- curricular activities, and Mr Collette was known to do Country dancing, run the Library, and play in the Staff cricket team. He acted in Staff plays, ran the Tuck shop and constructed the School timetable.
An interesting element of our website is that relatives and ex-pupils can look at the Form and Staff photos over the years and see the changing faces as one goes back in time. Hairstyles and demeanour emerge more youthful as the years regress. I hope you will continue to explore the website, and of course we would be delighted to receive any further memories you may have of your Grandfather.
Once again, many thanks for getting in touch.
Sincerely,
Sheila
What a lovely surprise to hear from you! The memories of your Grandfather are sprinkled throughout our website, and Mr. Collette (as we knew him) was 'in post' throughout the schooldays of both Dave and I (1955-1962). It was a time when teachers swept down the corridors wearing gowns, and great respect was afforded to both Mr. Collette and Miss Smith who were Senior Staff.
Discipline was strict both in academic work and behaviour, and this ethos was established and maintained from the top down. If you haven't already done this, I would urge you to look in the Forum section of our website, especially in 1.8 and 1.9 where Mr. Collette is mentioned. As your Grandfather was at HGS during the War, I think he may have been involved in the activities of the Air Training Corps from 1941 onwards. Did he ever speak of this to you? He was also a specialist in Commercial subjects, and taught book-keeping in the early years of the School. An important side of teaching at HGS was the extra- curricular activities, and Mr Collette was known to do Country dancing, run the Library, and play in the Staff cricket team. He acted in Staff plays, ran the Tuck shop and constructed the School timetable.
An interesting element of our website is that relatives and ex-pupils can look at the Form and Staff photos over the years and see the changing faces as one goes back in time. Hairstyles and demeanour emerge more youthful as the years regress. I hope you will continue to explore the website, and of course we would be delighted to receive any further memories you may have of your Grandfather.
Once again, many thanks for getting in touch.
Sincerely,
Sheila
I obviously knew Mr Collette for the whole of my time at HGS (1955-62). He taught me at the Ordinary Level of G.C.E. and was always friendly and helpful at all times. One thing that was different about Mr. Collette was simply the fact that he did not call me by my surname. At that time boys at HGS were called by their surnames, but he always called me Mac. This was especially so in my final year at HGS. Mr Hamilton, on the other hand, never varied from the very formal McKenzie and he would always extend the last syllable.
When Mr Leonard, a colleague of his for 21 years, died, Mr Collette came to the Prefects' Room and informed me of the very sad news. I can still see Mr Collette's face as we met by the door. It will stay with me forever.
Dave
When Mr Leonard, a colleague of his for 21 years, died, Mr Collette came to the Prefects' Room and informed me of the very sad news. I can still see Mr Collette's face as we met by the door. It will stay with me forever.
Dave
10. Mr Jack Rhodes
Mr. J.W. Rhodes Joins the School
In February 1929, three candidates for the post of assistant gardener at the school were interviewed, and Mr. J.W. Rhodes of Upton, was appointed. He was to remain in employment at the school until his retirement in the 1960's.
In February 1929, three candidates for the post of assistant gardener at the school were interviewed, and Mr. J.W. Rhodes of Upton, was appointed. He was to remain in employment at the school until his retirement in the 1960's.
Sports Day 1961
Here is Jack in his trilby (left of the photograph) at the 1961 Sports Day. This is the only image that we have of him. He would have been watching the sports and possibly thinking "my work made this possible". It would have been a very satisfying thought. There are so many Sports Reports in the School Magazines which make a specific mention of his care and preparation of the playing surfaces. The Captains all thank him for all his work.
Here is an example from the 1951-52 Hockey Report:
"Repeat Colours awarded this year go to Florence Crossley and Dorothy Pickin and Full Colours to Shirley Lillford, Ann Greetham and Eileen Tate. On behalf of the teams I would like to thank Mrs. Owen for her encouragement and advice throughout the season. Our thanks also go to Mr. Rhodes for his excellent pitches. Finally, I would like to wish the teams every success in the coming seasons."
Florence Crossley, U6A, Captain.
Here is an example from the 1951-52 Hockey Report:
"Repeat Colours awarded this year go to Florence Crossley and Dorothy Pickin and Full Colours to Shirley Lillford, Ann Greetham and Eileen Tate. On behalf of the teams I would like to thank Mrs. Owen for her encouragement and advice throughout the season. Our thanks also go to Mr. Rhodes for his excellent pitches. Finally, I would like to wish the teams every success in the coming seasons."
Florence Crossley, U6A, Captain.
Peter Cooper
All the cricket teams knew Jack very well. The Cricket Square was his pride and joy. Who could forget the jolly face under the trilby hat !!!
All the cricket teams knew Jack very well. The Cricket Square was his pride and joy. Who could forget the jolly face under the trilby hat !!!
Terry McCroakam
He was a great bloke and he had a lot of fields to attend to and mark out, especially in the Summer. In the Summer he would supervise those boys who had forgotten their PE kit so they could not do the lesson, and had to pull the roller on the wicket as a result.
He was a great bloke and he had a lot of fields to attend to and mark out, especially in the Summer. In the Summer he would supervise those boys who had forgotten their PE kit so they could not do the lesson, and had to pull the roller on the wicket as a result.
Here is an email to this website from one of Jack's relatives, a nephew.
Dear HGS folks,
I stumbled upon your site during some family tree research. What a great community you have, and have had. Jack Rhodes the groundsman is mentioned fondly by some of you in the Forum (1.3), especially for cricket. When I was a little boy in the 50s and early 60s he was my Uncle Jack, married to my Auntie Sadie (nee Mahoney). As I recall, everyone had only good things to say about 'Jack and Sadie'. They were kind and gentle. They came to stay and visit at our house in Grantham before and after moving to Guernsey. Uncle Jack gave us all a Guernsey 3d bit, which I found exotic with its frilly milled edge and different metal to the English 3d bit. I also remember us always having two aged but real cricket bats in the shed that I'm pretty sure came from Jack; and most likely surplus from HGS. They eventually disintegrated from years of use on the street wicket. Whilst I am from Grantham, my grandparents Timothy and Rose Mahoney lived in Hemsworth from about 1920-1950.
Anyway, there you go. I'll have a drive through Hemsworth and HGS next time I'm back home.
Regards,
Stephen Mahoney
6 May 2016
Dear HGS folks,
I stumbled upon your site during some family tree research. What a great community you have, and have had. Jack Rhodes the groundsman is mentioned fondly by some of you in the Forum (1.3), especially for cricket. When I was a little boy in the 50s and early 60s he was my Uncle Jack, married to my Auntie Sadie (nee Mahoney). As I recall, everyone had only good things to say about 'Jack and Sadie'. They were kind and gentle. They came to stay and visit at our house in Grantham before and after moving to Guernsey. Uncle Jack gave us all a Guernsey 3d bit, which I found exotic with its frilly milled edge and different metal to the English 3d bit. I also remember us always having two aged but real cricket bats in the shed that I'm pretty sure came from Jack; and most likely surplus from HGS. They eventually disintegrated from years of use on the street wicket. Whilst I am from Grantham, my grandparents Timothy and Rose Mahoney lived in Hemsworth from about 1920-1950.
Anyway, there you go. I'll have a drive through Hemsworth and HGS next time I'm back home.
Regards,
Stephen Mahoney
6 May 2016
Here is Sheila's reply.
Hi Steve,
I'm Sheila from the HGS website, and I just wanted to thank you for your recent mail. We have been longing for news of Mr. Rhodes (as we knew him), because he was such an important cog in the Sports life of our School. He was a popular chap who seemed to be an enduring feature of our lives. He and Mr. Wycherley gave us all such pleasant memories of the grounds - pitches, flower beds, trees and shrubs were all tended with such care. I'm sure that few schools in Yorkshire, or for that matter in the country, would have had such beautiful grounds as ours. He left behind some treasured memories.
Sheila
Hi Steve,
I'm Sheila from the HGS website, and I just wanted to thank you for your recent mail. We have been longing for news of Mr. Rhodes (as we knew him), because he was such an important cog in the Sports life of our School. He was a popular chap who seemed to be an enduring feature of our lives. He and Mr. Wycherley gave us all such pleasant memories of the grounds - pitches, flower beds, trees and shrubs were all tended with such care. I'm sure that few schools in Yorkshire, or for that matter in the country, would have had such beautiful grounds as ours. He left behind some treasured memories.
Sheila
On a more serious and comparative level, Sheila had this to say after she had visited the High School in 2003.
"I try to be realistic about comparing my Schooldays with what is on offer today. I'm not one to say "everything was better in my day!", but as I gazed at the playing fields, I reflected that at no time when I attended HGS would I ever have been able to say that the playing fields looked like any local well-used park. Mr. Rhodes and his team put so much sterling effort into caring for our outdoor environment that the memory of this remains crystal clear all these years later, despite our taking it for granted at the time. Perhaps if I had had more time to linger, I may have found other unexpected counterbalances to the bleak scene before me, but I turned away, unwilling to look further, and saddened that strangers had spoiled something special."
Sheila Kelsall
"I try to be realistic about comparing my Schooldays with what is on offer today. I'm not one to say "everything was better in my day!", but as I gazed at the playing fields, I reflected that at no time when I attended HGS would I ever have been able to say that the playing fields looked like any local well-used park. Mr. Rhodes and his team put so much sterling effort into caring for our outdoor environment that the memory of this remains crystal clear all these years later, despite our taking it for granted at the time. Perhaps if I had had more time to linger, I may have found other unexpected counterbalances to the bleak scene before me, but I turned away, unwilling to look further, and saddened that strangers had spoiled something special."
Sheila Kelsall
I lived next to school at the farm over the wall of North Walk. I enjoyed 1957-1962 - playing 5-s and helping Jack Rhodes the groundsman. Once got caught by the Boss jumping the wall to avoid Physics with Mr. Booth. That cost a dozen eggs instead of 100 x 1st school rule. Incidentally Dad was one of the first pupils at the school.
Jack Rhodes lived on Holly Bank across the public playing fields from the North Walk. He was the groundsman in 1951. He retired to Guernsey in about 1964. After leaving school I often climbed the wall from our farm to enjoy a cuppa in his shed next to the 5’s court. He was a marvelous man, hard working, dedicated, knowledgeable, interesting and very good with young people.
(February 2003)
David Chappell
Jack Rhodes lived on Holly Bank across the public playing fields from the North Walk. He was the groundsman in 1951. He retired to Guernsey in about 1964. After leaving school I often climbed the wall from our farm to enjoy a cuppa in his shed next to the 5’s court. He was a marvelous man, hard working, dedicated, knowledgeable, interesting and very good with young people.
(February 2003)
David Chappell
In the 60s we would pass Jack’s building on our way to the Fives Court each morning. Often we would watch him attract a robin by whistling, hold out his hand full of breadcrumbs and the bird would perch on his fingers and feed. Mesmerising.
Ken Johnson
Ken Johnson