A Personal View 5
Status: 7 items 27.03.2021
Status: 7 items 27.03.2021
Staff v Pupils Hockey Match Teams 1966
Back Row L-R: Derek Wilkinson, Maurice Shelton, Frank Morley, John Murray, John Smith, Miss Alliott, Miss Williams, Kath Lowe, Gordon Knox, Linda Lindley, Mr. Hamilton, Terry McCroakam, Sue Wren, Pat Glenn
Front Row L-R: Jenny Swift, Carol Millthorpe, Christine Griffiths, Sheila Radford, Anne Parkes, Kath Byra, Jean Kilvington, Dianne Sell, Marrion Pearson, Sue Holder
Front Row L-R: Jenny Swift, Carol Millthorpe, Christine Griffiths, Sheila Radford, Anne Parkes, Kath Byra, Jean Kilvington, Dianne Sell, Marrion Pearson, Sue Holder
Table of Contents
|
1. The High Jump and some of its risks
2. Stars from Sports Day 1941 3. Florence Crossley: an HGS shining star 4. Mr C. Owen 5. Mr D. Taylor |
6. The school as a Grammar School 7. The Main Hall Gym and the New Gymnasium |
1. The High Jump and some of its risks. Sheila's Long Jump 1959
As a result of leg-work with the weights at Upton Youth Club, I found that I could jump quite high. At home I would sometimes take a run and jump over the front garden gate. Thankfully I always cleared it quite easily as falling on the concrete path was not attractive. That is no good for the High Jump event, however, unless you have a solid technique for when the competition gets hard towards the end of the event. At HGS we had to land in sand in the pit near to the Cricket Pavilion. That could be a problem in itself. In fact on wet days the event could be a real danger. At one Sports Day a girl broke her arm doing the event and was obviously in great pain. Most of us wore thin-soled gym shoes or pumps. Some of us wore spikes and that could also be a danger as I found out.
The techniques available to us were: the Scissor Kick, the Western Roll, the Straddle, the Duck Under and the Push the Bar off. Lots of girls preferred the Scissor Kick. That just about guaranteed safety on landing in dry conditions. In the school magazine for 1961 there are photographs of two star athletes doing the Western Roll (David Sugden and Ellen Toulson). They were both just about International Standard at their chosen Sports of Rugby and Hockey and they were somewhat technically gifted in terms of their chosen High Jump style, although that does not always follow.
The techniques available to us were: the Scissor Kick, the Western Roll, the Straddle, the Duck Under and the Push the Bar off. Lots of girls preferred the Scissor Kick. That just about guaranteed safety on landing in dry conditions. In the school magazine for 1961 there are photographs of two star athletes doing the Western Roll (David Sugden and Ellen Toulson). They were both just about International Standard at their chosen Sports of Rugby and Hockey and they were somewhat technically gifted in terms of their chosen High Jump style, although that does not always follow.
One P.E. lesson in 1959 for Standards, we were all lined up by Mr Tate for our go at getting over the bar. After that we were to have a go at the 440 yards also for a Standard - Low standard one point; High standard two points; Special standard three points; Record standard ten points. I cleared a reasonable height with my own version of a High Jump style, but I was wearing spikes. I did not have full control over where my arms should be during the movement. The result was predictable. Somehow one of the spikes of my running shoes caught my right arm and caused it to bleed. To this day, over 60 years later, I have a 2.5 inch scar on the inside of my right forearm. The cut just missed a prominent vein. Stupidly I did the 440 yards, at the end of which I did not feel too good. After that incident I changed to a very controlled Straddle Style for safety.
The story had a happy ending, as my new technique with controlled arms meant that I won the Intermediate High Jump on Sports Day 1959 with a record height. The lesson for me which I have never forgotten was "spend lots of time on sorting and perfecting your technique" whatever you are doing.
Dave
The story had a happy ending, as my new technique with controlled arms meant that I won the Intermediate High Jump on Sports Day 1959 with a record height. The lesson for me which I have never forgotten was "spend lots of time on sorting and perfecting your technique" whatever you are doing.
Dave
Ellen Toulson does the High Jump
Ellen was the Victrix Ludorum winner 4 times in a row
Ellen was the Victrix Ludorum winner 4 times in a row
Above is Ellen Toulson photographed by Mr Reed on the Fortieth Annual Sports Day, 17th May 1961. The event was the Senior Girls' High Jump. The competitors were: Cynthia Parton 45, Ellen Toulson 36, Christine Gaskell 26, Sheila Kelsall 22, Irene Thorpe 40. Irene's winning height was 4ft 3ins. In the photo, Irene is on the left, Christine has her hand on her head, Ellen is flying through the air, and Cynthia and I are noticeable by our absences! We both took off from our left legs, and so would be standing off to the right of the picture.
Sheila Kelsall
Sheila Kelsall
HGS Victrix Ludorum Medal
Sheila won the Victrix Ludorum 3 times (2 Junior and 1 Senior). Sprinting and the Jumps were her strengths. When the School closed, Sheila held the record for the Junior Long Jump and the Junior Hop, Step and Jump. Her Long Jump technique was based upon speed, mid-jump height and overall dynamic control. Quite remarkable. The photograph below was taken by Mr. Leonard at the Huddersfield Sports in 1959 when she set a new record. She is shown at the apex of her jump when she has just started to twist before landing - rather like modern athletes. The effort given is obviously at the maximum. Her arms are away from those spikes and help with her balance.
Dave
Dave
Sheila at the Huddersfield Sports in 1959
Sheila Kelsall breaking the Huddersfield Sports Long Jump Record in 1959. The photo was taken by Mr Leonard.
Sheila Kelsall breaking the Huddersfield Sports Long Jump Record in 1959. The photo was taken by Mr Leonard.
Below is another view taken by Mr Leonard showing Sheila's amazing effort at the Huddersfield Sports. Mr Hassall is on the right.
The photo below shows Sheila doing a sort of "Scissor Kick" High Jump style at the Huddersfield Sports on Tuesday 16th July 1957.
She was wearing spikes and her arms are well clear of any danger. Quite possibly Sheila approached the High Jump bar from the left hand side and jumped off her right leg. This meant that her left leg would go over the bar and land first. A safety first style. Her trail leg was fully bent at the knee. As a Straddle jumper, I also approached the High Jump bar from the left but took off from my left leg hopefully throwing my right leg up and over the bar. My trailing left leg would be pushed initially backwards and upwards to avoid the metal bar. On landing I would roll forward for safety in the sand.
The Huddersfield programme 1957
Sheila Comments
A Day of Seconds – Tuesday, July 16th 1957
I remember this was my first visit to the Fartown Cricket Ground at Huddersfield for the Inter School Sports Meeting. Hemsworth Girls were competing with Penistone, Honley, Royds Hall and Brighouse schools, and the Boys included these schools also, with Normanton and not Brighouse in their competition. The field events took place in the morning, but I have no memory of lunch arrangements. Maybe we took sandwiches? Heats, Finals and the Presentation took place in the afternoon.
Mr. Leonard captured the moment. I came second in my event, jumping 3 feet 6 inches high with no style at all! I think my way of getting over the bar was by means of the “splits”. The Western Roll came later, and the Fosbury Flop hadn’t yet been flopped! I was age 13 years and a Junior. The winner was a girl from Penistone with a jump of 4 feet and half an inch. I also came second in the 100 yards, and was part of the Junior Relay team which also ran second. It was the Middles from Hemsworth who received both Boys and Girls Plaques in 1957.
Sheila Kelsall
A Day of Seconds – Tuesday, July 16th 1957
I remember this was my first visit to the Fartown Cricket Ground at Huddersfield for the Inter School Sports Meeting. Hemsworth Girls were competing with Penistone, Honley, Royds Hall and Brighouse schools, and the Boys included these schools also, with Normanton and not Brighouse in their competition. The field events took place in the morning, but I have no memory of lunch arrangements. Maybe we took sandwiches? Heats, Finals and the Presentation took place in the afternoon.
Mr. Leonard captured the moment. I came second in my event, jumping 3 feet 6 inches high with no style at all! I think my way of getting over the bar was by means of the “splits”. The Western Roll came later, and the Fosbury Flop hadn’t yet been flopped! I was age 13 years and a Junior. The winner was a girl from Penistone with a jump of 4 feet and half an inch. I also came second in the 100 yards, and was part of the Junior Relay team which also ran second. It was the Middles from Hemsworth who received both Boys and Girls Plaques in 1957.
Sheila Kelsall
2. Stars from Sports Day 1941 and 1942
July 26th 1941
There was a large crowd at the 20th. annual sports of Hemsworth Grammar School on the school cricket ground on Wednesday. Price House won the Challenge Cup with 683 points, Holgate being second with 642½, Talbot third with 528½, and Guest fourth with 480. Geoffrey Harwood (Price) was Senior Victor Ludorum with 47 points and Jean Wilson (Holgate) was Senior Victrix Ludorum with 43 points. The Junior Victor Ludorum Cup was won by Derek Birley (Holgate) with 32½ points and the Junior Victrix Ludorum Cup was won by Annie Brammer (Holgate) with 30 points, for the third year in succession. Several new records were established.
Mr. R.W. Hamilton (Headmaster) and members of the school staff were officials and the prizes were presented by Mrs. Carleton, wife of Canon E. B. Carleton, Master of Holgate Hospital. Coun. A. Flavell. J.P. C.C., Chairman of the School Governors, presided. Ryhill Silver Prize Band, under the direction of Mr. G. Smith, played selections. After the sports there were art, cookery, and needlework exhibitions; a film display under the direction of Mr. J. D. Hamilton (Art Master), a cricket match between fathers and boys, and a tennis match between mothers and girls.
There was a large crowd at the 20th. annual sports of Hemsworth Grammar School on the school cricket ground on Wednesday. Price House won the Challenge Cup with 683 points, Holgate being second with 642½, Talbot third with 528½, and Guest fourth with 480. Geoffrey Harwood (Price) was Senior Victor Ludorum with 47 points and Jean Wilson (Holgate) was Senior Victrix Ludorum with 43 points. The Junior Victor Ludorum Cup was won by Derek Birley (Holgate) with 32½ points and the Junior Victrix Ludorum Cup was won by Annie Brammer (Holgate) with 30 points, for the third year in succession. Several new records were established.
Mr. R.W. Hamilton (Headmaster) and members of the school staff were officials and the prizes were presented by Mrs. Carleton, wife of Canon E. B. Carleton, Master of Holgate Hospital. Coun. A. Flavell. J.P. C.C., Chairman of the School Governors, presided. Ryhill Silver Prize Band, under the direction of Mr. G. Smith, played selections. After the sports there were art, cookery, and needlework exhibitions; a film display under the direction of Mr. J. D. Hamilton (Art Master), a cricket match between fathers and boys, and a tennis match between mothers and girls.
Geoffrey Harwood
Senior Victor Ludorum 
|
Jean Wilson
Senior Victrix Ludorum 
|
|
Derek Birley
Junior Victor Ludorum |
Annie Brammer
Junior Victrix Ludorum |
Geoffrey Harwood was a Sports all rounder. The record shown below was never broken during the life of the school. This shows what a remarkable achievement it was.
Long Jump, Boys, Geoffrey Harwood, 1941, 21' 1¼"
Long Jump, Boys, Geoffrey Harwood, 1941, 21' 1¼"
First XV Rugby 1940-41
The coach was Mr Leonard in his first year at Hemsworth Grammar School. Mr Hamilton was in his fourth year at the school.
The coach was Mr Leonard in his first year at Hemsworth Grammar School. Mr Hamilton was in his fourth year at the school.
Back Row L-R: Mr. Leonard, Ineson, Geoffrey Jowitt, Albert Lawton, James O’Hara, William Marsden, Toulson K., Donald McAllister.
Middle Row L-R: Charles Chapman, Geoffrey Harwood, Leslie Street, Mr. Hamilton, Frank Mugglestone, Major D.W., Walker (Harry or James?)
Front Row L-R: Charles Hellewell, Halsall M., Alan Johnson.
Middle Row L-R: Charles Chapman, Geoffrey Harwood, Leslie Street, Mr. Hamilton, Frank Mugglestone, Major D.W., Walker (Harry or James?)
Front Row L-R: Charles Hellewell, Halsall M., Alan Johnson.
Here is the Captain Halsall with the Year Ball and Mascot
School First XI Cricket 1940-41
Back Row L-R: Bannister, Leonard Fox, Albert Lawton, Geoffrey Harwood, Frank Mugglestone, Toulson K., Major D.W, Walker (James or Harry?)
Front Row L-R: Joseph Dean, Charles Hellewell, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Leonard, Charles Chapman, Halsall M.
Front Row L-R: Joseph Dean, Charles Hellewell, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Leonard, Charles Chapman, Halsall M.
Annie Brammer was an excellent athlete. She won the Victrix Ludorum 4 times in a row, 3 Juniors and 1 Senior. In 1942 Jean Wilson must have come a close second for the Victrix Ludorum.
Victor/Victrix Ludorum Winners 1939 to 1942
Sports Day 1942
July 25th. 1942. A big crowd saw some keen racing and four new records made at the 21st. annual sports of Hemsworth Grammar School, on the school playing field on Wednesday. The feature of the gathering was the success of Annie Brammer. She has been the Victrix Ludorum winner as a junior for the past three years and has now won the Victrix Ludorum honours in her first year as a senior. She won four of the eight events in which she competed, was second in three, and fourth in the other, making a total of 42 points. She broke the Hop, Step and Jump record by 2ft. 7¾ inches. Jean Wilson, holder of the title, was a close second with 40 points. N. Fox (41 points) was senior boys' Victor Ludorum, and A. Parker and R. Cookson tied for the honour for junior boys, with 23 points each. Mary Griffiths (33½ points) was junior girls' Victrix Ludorum. For the first time for several years Holgate House gained the most points with 803½, Guest (642½) being second, Price (624½), last year's winners, third, and Talbot (614½) fourth. The prizes were presented by Mrs. W. K. Price, of South Elmsall, a Governor of the school.
July 25th. 1942. A big crowd saw some keen racing and four new records made at the 21st. annual sports of Hemsworth Grammar School, on the school playing field on Wednesday. The feature of the gathering was the success of Annie Brammer. She has been the Victrix Ludorum winner as a junior for the past three years and has now won the Victrix Ludorum honours in her first year as a senior. She won four of the eight events in which she competed, was second in three, and fourth in the other, making a total of 42 points. She broke the Hop, Step and Jump record by 2ft. 7¾ inches. Jean Wilson, holder of the title, was a close second with 40 points. N. Fox (41 points) was senior boys' Victor Ludorum, and A. Parker and R. Cookson tied for the honour for junior boys, with 23 points each. Mary Griffiths (33½ points) was junior girls' Victrix Ludorum. For the first time for several years Holgate House gained the most points with 803½, Guest (642½) being second, Price (624½), last year's winners, third, and Talbot (614½) fourth. The prizes were presented by Mrs. W. K. Price, of South Elmsall, a Governor of the school.
Annie Brammer and Jean Wilsons' 1942 Sports Day performances are shown below
Girls
Long Jump – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
Long Jump – U/15 – 1. P. Rowley (H) 2. J. Littlewood (P) 3. Y. Cooper (T).
Hop, Step & Jump – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. V. Davis (T) 3. J. Wilson (H).
Hop, Step & Jump – U15 – 1. B. Findler (P) 2. C. Maskill (H) 3. J. Gough (P).
Throwing the Cricket Ball – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. M. Sunderland (P) 3. M. Duckworth (T).
Throwing the Cricket Ball – U/15 – 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. A. Marsh (P) 3. J. Burton (G) – New Record 48yds. 1ft. 11in.
Goal Shooting – 1. B. Holding (G) 2. M. Duckworth (T) 3. V. Davis (T).
High Jump – U/15 – 1. B. Findler (P) 2. S. Powell (P) 3. J. Gough (P).
High Jump – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. V. Davis (T) 3. J. Wilson (H).
Hurdles, 100yds – U/15 – 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. S. Eyre (P) 3. A. Marsh (P).
Hurdles, 100yds. – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. J. Wilson (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
80 yds. – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
80 yds. – Middles – 1. Tie – J. Littlewood (P) & M. Griffiths (T) 3. E. Thompson (G).
80 yds. – Juniors – 1. B. Robinson (H) 2. E. Kidd (H) 3. G. Smart (P).
Hockey Race – U/15 – 1. L. Hunter (G) 2. G. Hayward (P) 3. J. Burton (G).
Hockey Race – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. M. Sunderland (P).
220 yds. – U/15- 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. J. Littlewood (P) 3. J. Croft (H).
220 yds. – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. Tie – V. Davis (T) & M. Sunderland (P).
Throwing the Javelin – Open – 1. A. Marsh (P) 2. M. Sunderland (P) 3. M. Griffiths (T).
Girls
Long Jump – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
Long Jump – U/15 – 1. P. Rowley (H) 2. J. Littlewood (P) 3. Y. Cooper (T).
Hop, Step & Jump – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. V. Davis (T) 3. J. Wilson (H).
Hop, Step & Jump – U15 – 1. B. Findler (P) 2. C. Maskill (H) 3. J. Gough (P).
Throwing the Cricket Ball – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. M. Sunderland (P) 3. M. Duckworth (T).
Throwing the Cricket Ball – U/15 – 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. A. Marsh (P) 3. J. Burton (G) – New Record 48yds. 1ft. 11in.
Goal Shooting – 1. B. Holding (G) 2. M. Duckworth (T) 3. V. Davis (T).
High Jump – U/15 – 1. B. Findler (P) 2. S. Powell (P) 3. J. Gough (P).
High Jump – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. V. Davis (T) 3. J. Wilson (H).
Hurdles, 100yds – U/15 – 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. S. Eyre (P) 3. A. Marsh (P).
Hurdles, 100yds. – Seniors – 1. A. Brammer (H) 2. J. Wilson (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
80 yds. – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. V. Davis (T).
80 yds. – Middles – 1. Tie – J. Littlewood (P) & M. Griffiths (T) 3. E. Thompson (G).
80 yds. – Juniors – 1. B. Robinson (H) 2. E. Kidd (H) 3. G. Smart (P).
Hockey Race – U/15 – 1. L. Hunter (G) 2. G. Hayward (P) 3. J. Burton (G).
Hockey Race – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. A. Brammer (H) 3. M. Sunderland (P).
220 yds. – U/15- 1. M. Griffiths (T) 2. J. Littlewood (P) 3. J. Croft (H).
220 yds. – Seniors – 1. J. Wilson (H) 2. Tie – V. Davis (T) & M. Sunderland (P).
Throwing the Javelin – Open – 1. A. Marsh (P) 2. M. Sunderland (P) 3. M. Griffiths (T).
The Junior Victrix Ludorum for 1942 was Mary Griffiths. She contacted the site in 2008.
Mary Griffiths 1939-47
Dear Sheila,
I’ve just discovered the web site and I’m thrilled! I was at HGS 1939-47 (Talbot) and was a little disappointed to see so few faces from that era. However it was good to see photos of my fellow athletes Pash Tate and Derek Wilkinson (I remember the site of the photo) and those of Messrs. Hamilton and Leonard.
I started in September 1939 - that was the expectation, but our start was erratic as the air raid shelters were not ready. Actually we were very fortunate compared with other parts of the country, and I do not think any of our visits to the shelters were emergencies. I remember picking currants in the kitchen gardens for jam making and brewing coffee in large pans for the staff who were on fire watch duty. Obviously I have many more memories, especially of people, staff and pupils, who played such a significant part in my life. I have much to be thankful for.
I left South Yorks when I left school, but I would love to hear something about my contemporaries at Hemsworth. Thanks for your work on the site.
Mary Griffiths November 2008
Mary Griffiths 1939-47
Dear Sheila,
I’ve just discovered the web site and I’m thrilled! I was at HGS 1939-47 (Talbot) and was a little disappointed to see so few faces from that era. However it was good to see photos of my fellow athletes Pash Tate and Derek Wilkinson (I remember the site of the photo) and those of Messrs. Hamilton and Leonard.
I started in September 1939 - that was the expectation, but our start was erratic as the air raid shelters were not ready. Actually we were very fortunate compared with other parts of the country, and I do not think any of our visits to the shelters were emergencies. I remember picking currants in the kitchen gardens for jam making and brewing coffee in large pans for the staff who were on fire watch duty. Obviously I have many more memories, especially of people, staff and pupils, who played such a significant part in my life. I have much to be thankful for.
I left South Yorks when I left school, but I would love to hear something about my contemporaries at Hemsworth. Thanks for your work on the site.
Mary Griffiths November 2008
3. Florence Crossley: an HGS shining star
Yorkshire Schools' Senior 100 yards Sprint Champion 1952
HGS 100 yards All-time Record Holder, Florence Crossley, 1951, 11.9s
HGS 220 yards All-time Record Holder, Florence Crossley, 1951, 28s
School Athletics Colours
Senior Victrix Ludorum 1951 and 1952
Hockey Captain 1951 and 1952
Tennis 1st Team 1952
Athletics Captain 1952
Prefect 1951 and 1952
Yorkshire Schools' Senior 100 yards Sprint Champion 1952
HGS 100 yards All-time Record Holder, Florence Crossley, 1951, 11.9s
HGS 220 yards All-time Record Holder, Florence Crossley, 1951, 28s
School Athletics Colours
Senior Victrix Ludorum 1951 and 1952
Hockey Captain 1951 and 1952
Tennis 1st Team 1952
Athletics Captain 1952
Prefect 1951 and 1952
I never saw Florence run. Sad about that. She does not seem to have been a power athlete. She seems to have been of light build and swift reactions. In Hockey, do not let her get past you! You will never catch her.
Dave
Dave
Yorkshire Schools Senior 100 yards Sprint Champion 1952
Victor and Victrix Ludorum Winners 1950-51
L-R: Joan Taylor (Junior Victrix), Florence Crossley (Senior Victrix), Peter Henry (Senior Victor), Jack Britton (Junior Victor).
Victor and Victrix Ludorum Winners 1951-52
Senior Winners: Florence Crossley, Keith Lodge
Junior Winners: Joe Pearson, Joan Taylor
Junior Winners: Joe Pearson, Joan Taylor
Hockey First Team 1950-51
Photo from Irene Wright. Some of the names have been provided by Geoff Govier. Thank you.
Back Row L-R: Ann Greetham, Eileen Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mrs. Owen, Irene Wright, Dorothy Pickin
Front Row L-R: Margaret Roberts, Jean Kenchington, Pamela Harrison, Florence Crossley, Brenda Parker, Shirley Lillford, Jean Dillon
Back Row L-R: Ann Greetham, Eileen Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mrs. Owen, Irene Wright, Dorothy Pickin
Front Row L-R: Margaret Roberts, Jean Kenchington, Pamela Harrison, Florence Crossley, Brenda Parker, Shirley Lillford, Jean Dillon
Hockey First Team 1951-52
Back Row L-R: Mrs. Owen, Brenda Ackroyd, Mabel Horbury, Eileen Tate, Beryl Whitehouse, Mr. Hamilton.
Front Row L-R: Ellen Gell, Shirley Lillford, Ann Greetham, Florence Crossley, Dorothy Pickin, Pauline Pratt, Joan Taylor
Front Row L-R: Ellen Gell, Shirley Lillford, Ann Greetham, Florence Crossley, Dorothy Pickin, Pauline Pratt, Joan Taylor
Athletics Team 1952
Back Row L-R: Rhona Tatton, Joan May, Jean Nuttall, Pat Waring, Brenda Ackroyd, Mrs. Owen, Valerie Manning, Shirley Lillford, Pauline Pratt, A. Ward, Madelaine Knapton
Middle Row L-R: I. Turner, Doreen Honeyben, Marjorie Hawkins, Joan Taylor, Florence Crossley (Captain), Margaret Butterfield, Beryl Whitehouse, Agnes Bulmer.
Front Row L-R: R. Britton, Valerie Higham, S. Thompson, N. Street, J. Eyre, Molly Hepworth.
Middle Row L-R: I. Turner, Doreen Honeyben, Marjorie Hawkins, Joan Taylor, Florence Crossley (Captain), Margaret Butterfield, Beryl Whitehouse, Agnes Bulmer.
Front Row L-R: R. Britton, Valerie Higham, S. Thompson, N. Street, J. Eyre, Molly Hepworth.
Prefects 1950-51
Back Row L-R: Millicent Jones, Molly Dodsworth, Barbara Winters, Angela Lockwood, Edith Lill, Dorothy Pickin.
Front Row L-R: Florence Crossley, Thelma Robinson, Jean Dillon, Miss Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Norma Burden, Pamela Harrison, Pat Waring
Front Row L-R: Florence Crossley, Thelma Robinson, Jean Dillon, Miss Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Norma Burden, Pamela Harrison, Pat Waring
Prefects 1951-52
Photo sent in by Janet Thorley. The names have been provided by Geoff Govier. Thank you.
Back Row L-R: Margaret White, Janet Thorley, Angela Lockwood, Pat Atkinson, Mary Jones, Marina Moore
Front Row L-R: Ellen Gell, Shirley Lillford, Pat Waring, Dorothy Pickin, Miss. Smith, Florence Crossley, Edith Lill, Molly Dodsworth, Eileen Connolly
Back Row L-R: Margaret White, Janet Thorley, Angela Lockwood, Pat Atkinson, Mary Jones, Marina Moore
Front Row L-R: Ellen Gell, Shirley Lillford, Pat Waring, Dorothy Pickin, Miss. Smith, Florence Crossley, Edith Lill, Molly Dodsworth, Eileen Connolly
Tennis First Team 1951-52
Back Row L-R: Florence Crossley, A. Booth, Mrs. Owen, Mr.Hamilton, Beryl Whitehouse, Shirley Lillford
Front Row L-R: Edith Lill, Dorothy Pickin, Eileen Tate.
Front Row L-R: Edith Lill, Dorothy Pickin, Eileen Tate.
Mr Owen
Mr Owen was a member of the teaching staff for a very long time. He joined the Staff in 1948. We probably all remember his name and where he worked in school. I find it amazing that I was in the school for 7 years and our paths never crossed. I was also on his side of the curriculum! His versatility as a member of the School Staff may not be known to all students. He was a well-respected Science teacher, Hockey coach, Hockey referee and a player in Hockey Staff Matches. He was a Drama producer for Staff and School Plays and a member of various choirs which he also helped to develop. Mr Owen was involved with the construction of the School Timetable. He was an excellent appointment by Mr Hamilton. The Staff photo below is from the Year 1948-49 and shows Mr Owen as a new teacher to the School.
Comment for Christine Westwell
I was privileged to baby sit for the Owen family. They were a lively and lovely set of musical children!!
The School Magazine Editorial for 1948-49 by Marion Roberts (U6S) does not mention Mr Owen in the Staff changes. The Magazine went to press early in 1949. Perhaps it can be assumed that his appointment was after the deadlines for the School Magazine and before the School Photographs Day.
Comment for Christine Westwell
I was privileged to baby sit for the Owen family. They were a lively and lovely set of musical children!!
The School Magazine Editorial for 1948-49 by Marion Roberts (U6S) does not mention Mr Owen in the Staff changes. The Magazine went to press early in 1949. Perhaps it can be assumed that his appointment was after the deadlines for the School Magazine and before the School Photographs Day.
Marion Roberts U6S
1949 School Magazine Editorial
1949 finds us one year closer to the breaking up of our small community and one year further away from that glorious day in 1921 when Mr. Talbot first opened the doors of the new Secondary School. Mr. Talbot and Archbishop Holgate - the founder of the first Hemsworth Grammar School in 1548 - gave their names to the first two houses of our school. When we look back from the comfortable well-run school we know today, it is hard to visualise the obstacles which lay in the paths of those first ‘Young Hilmians". In the first school magazine we read "The girls have a field for Hockey, rough at present but capable, with plenty of rolling, of becoming quite a fair ground", and, “We hope also before long to have a wireless listening-in installation. Then we look forward to hearing the real thing." It is a very good thing to look back through the early records of the school.
Far too many of us don’t realise what a grand history we must live up to. Are we doing enough for the school? Can we do enough? One of the milestones of last year was the visit of Lord Halifax on Speech Day. Other visitors to the school were Monsieur Duthel on Sports’ Day - he was in charge of the party of French children who were visiting our Esperanto Club - Mr. Mason with the West Riding Orchestra and Miss Marshall, the Technical Nursing Officer of Sheffield, who brought a film “Student Nurse” which was shown to the girls of Forms 4, 5 and 6.
We have had a good year and are now looking forward to Sports Day, Folk Dancing and the School Concert, which will be described elsewhere and which is to take the place of our Music Competition. We are also looking forward, but with different emotions, to the too quickly approaching School Certificate and Higher School Certificate Examinations.
Since last year we have had a very great number of Staff changes. We wish every success to: Miss Davies, Miss Bisset, Mrs. Hamilton, Miss Thompson, Dr. Sass, Mr. Oakes, Mr. Ward, Mr. Smith, Mr. M. Davies and Mr. Blewitt and at the same time we give a belated but none the less hearty welcome to: Miss Ward, Miss Wimpenny, Miss Woodward, Miss Jackson, Mr. Allan, Mr Stockill and Mr. Swinbank. Four members of the staff to whom we must say, “Hello and goodbye,” are Miss Wilson, Miss. Sykes, Mr. Hewson and Mr. Davis.
We go to press early this year so we can merely wish all competitors, whether on the sports field or in the examination room, the best of luck. Do your best and none can ask more of you.
Marion Roberts U6S.
1949 finds us one year closer to the breaking up of our small community and one year further away from that glorious day in 1921 when Mr. Talbot first opened the doors of the new Secondary School. Mr. Talbot and Archbishop Holgate - the founder of the first Hemsworth Grammar School in 1548 - gave their names to the first two houses of our school. When we look back from the comfortable well-run school we know today, it is hard to visualise the obstacles which lay in the paths of those first ‘Young Hilmians". In the first school magazine we read "The girls have a field for Hockey, rough at present but capable, with plenty of rolling, of becoming quite a fair ground", and, “We hope also before long to have a wireless listening-in installation. Then we look forward to hearing the real thing." It is a very good thing to look back through the early records of the school.
Far too many of us don’t realise what a grand history we must live up to. Are we doing enough for the school? Can we do enough? One of the milestones of last year was the visit of Lord Halifax on Speech Day. Other visitors to the school were Monsieur Duthel on Sports’ Day - he was in charge of the party of French children who were visiting our Esperanto Club - Mr. Mason with the West Riding Orchestra and Miss Marshall, the Technical Nursing Officer of Sheffield, who brought a film “Student Nurse” which was shown to the girls of Forms 4, 5 and 6.
We have had a good year and are now looking forward to Sports Day, Folk Dancing and the School Concert, which will be described elsewhere and which is to take the place of our Music Competition. We are also looking forward, but with different emotions, to the too quickly approaching School Certificate and Higher School Certificate Examinations.
Since last year we have had a very great number of Staff changes. We wish every success to: Miss Davies, Miss Bisset, Mrs. Hamilton, Miss Thompson, Dr. Sass, Mr. Oakes, Mr. Ward, Mr. Smith, Mr. M. Davies and Mr. Blewitt and at the same time we give a belated but none the less hearty welcome to: Miss Ward, Miss Wimpenny, Miss Woodward, Miss Jackson, Mr. Allan, Mr Stockill and Mr. Swinbank. Four members of the staff to whom we must say, “Hello and goodbye,” are Miss Wilson, Miss. Sykes, Mr. Hewson and Mr. Davis.
We go to press early this year so we can merely wish all competitors, whether on the sports field or in the examination room, the best of luck. Do your best and none can ask more of you.
Marion Roberts U6S.
HGS Staff 1948-49
Back row L-R: Mr. Allan, Mr. Jones, Mr. Owen, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Stockhill, Mr. Hewson, Mr. Foy
Second row L-R: Miss. Ward, Miss. Metcalfe, Miss. Jackson, Miss. Sykes, Miss. Wimpenny, Miss. Wilson, Miss. Woodward, Miss. Horsfield, Mr. Atack, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Morgan-Davies, Mr. Swinbank
Front row L-R: Mrs. Burn, Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Carter, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning, Mr. Leonard
Second row L-R: Miss. Ward, Miss. Metcalfe, Miss. Jackson, Miss. Sykes, Miss. Wimpenny, Miss. Wilson, Miss. Woodward, Miss. Horsfield, Mr. Atack, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Morgan-Davies, Mr. Swinbank
Front row L-R: Mrs. Burn, Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Carter, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning, Mr. Leonard
Mr Owen playing in a Staff Match
Mr Owen helped with Hockey Match refereeing on a Saturday
Mr Owen helped to coach the Hockey Teams
Junior Choir 1961-62
Back Row L-R: Graham Lockwood, Susan Dickinson, Janet Crow, Mr. Owen, Susan Smith, Susan Tonge, John Evans, Vincent Rushworth Front Row L-R: Christine Eades, Jenny Cocksedge, Janet Peace, Jean McClure, Janet Bonds, Carol Bonser, Lynn Robinson, Carol Milthorpe
Mr Taylor
Mr Taylor joined the Staff in 1949 as a Science teacher. He certainly made his mark in the classroom and also took part in extra-curricular activities such as Drama and Sport. Rugby was his forte. He became a well-known and well-liked character on the Staff. He left HGS in 1958 to take up the position of Chemistry Master at Ossett Grammar School.
HGS Staff 1949-50
Back Row L-R: Mr. Allan, 2, Mr. Taylor, Mr. Walker, Mr. Lock
Third Row L-R: Miss. Ward, Miss. Woodward, Mr. Jones, Mr. Stockhill, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Owen, Mr. Foy, Mr. Atack, Mr. Johnson
Second Row L-R: Miss. Metcalfe, Mrs. Burns, Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning, Mr. Leonard
Front Row L-R: Miss. Saville, Miss. Jackson, Miss. Wimpenny, Mr. Burnett, Mr. Combs, Mr. Swinbank
Third Row L-R: Miss. Ward, Miss. Woodward, Mr. Jones, Mr. Stockhill, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Farrar, Mr. Owen, Mr. Foy, Mr. Atack, Mr. Johnson
Second Row L-R: Miss. Metcalfe, Mrs. Burns, Miss. Whitworth, Miss. Harris, Miss. Smith, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Collette, Mr. Manning, Mr. Leonard
Front Row L-R: Miss. Saville, Miss. Jackson, Miss. Wimpenny, Mr. Burnett, Mr. Combs, Mr. Swinbank
The Undefeated Rugby First XV 1957-58
Mr Taylor worked with Mr Tate to produce one of the best teams to represent the school.
Mr Taylor worked with Mr Tate to produce one of the best teams to represent the school.
Back Row L-R: Mr. Taylor, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Tate
Third Row L-R: Brennan, Cooper, Boycott, Parkinson, Garbett, Ardron, Rigott
Second Row L-R: Lockett, Douglas, Appleby, Moore, Wild, Beaumont, Widmore
Front Row L-R: Toulson, Trueman
The 1st XV, undefeated this season, has produced rugby of the standard expected of Hemsworth Grammar School. The play of both backs and forwards was excellent, with all the newcomers showing encouraging form. Of the more experienced team members, Appleby and Toulson deserve special mention, for their play has been outstanding. We reached the peak of our form just before Christmas when nine of our side were chosen to represent a South Yorkshire Schools' Team against a Huddersfield side in a county trial at Barnsley. The opposition included many fine footballers from the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield, but we won fairly comfortably, 22 points to 11. For the School team, however, the highlight of the season was the Heath game, which ended in a draw after a spirited battle.
Ilkley Sevens
On March 29th a team consisting of Wild, Toulson, Trueman, Appleby, Ardron, Douglas and Moore represented the School at the annual Seven-a-side Tournament at Ilkley. 34 schools were competing, and the side gained distinction in this strenuous type of rugby by reaching the semi-finals. We were beaten 13-0 by Heath Grammar School, who went on to win the final.
Brian Moore, UVIA
Third Row L-R: Brennan, Cooper, Boycott, Parkinson, Garbett, Ardron, Rigott
Second Row L-R: Lockett, Douglas, Appleby, Moore, Wild, Beaumont, Widmore
Front Row L-R: Toulson, Trueman
The 1st XV, undefeated this season, has produced rugby of the standard expected of Hemsworth Grammar School. The play of both backs and forwards was excellent, with all the newcomers showing encouraging form. Of the more experienced team members, Appleby and Toulson deserve special mention, for their play has been outstanding. We reached the peak of our form just before Christmas when nine of our side were chosen to represent a South Yorkshire Schools' Team against a Huddersfield side in a county trial at Barnsley. The opposition included many fine footballers from the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield, but we won fairly comfortably, 22 points to 11. For the School team, however, the highlight of the season was the Heath game, which ended in a draw after a spirited battle.
Ilkley Sevens
On March 29th a team consisting of Wild, Toulson, Trueman, Appleby, Ardron, Douglas and Moore represented the School at the annual Seven-a-side Tournament at Ilkley. 34 schools were competing, and the side gained distinction in this strenuous type of rugby by reaching the semi-finals. We were beaten 13-0 by Heath Grammar School, who went on to win the final.
Brian Moore, UVIA
Comment
David Nuttall
Dudley Taylor taught Chemistry at HGS and also later taught part time at Bretton Hall Teacher Training College. He had a strong association with Rugby Union at the Wakefield club at College Grove. I believe he passed away a few years ago. He was a fair, decent and likeable man and teacher.
Peter Cooper
I met Dudley at a sportsman’s dinner in Wakefield a few years ago. He left HGS just after I started and went to Ossett school I think. We chatted for a couple of minutes about HGS which he remembered fondly. Dave Nuttall is correct he passed away 3 or 4 years ago maybe more.
David McKenzie
I fondly remember him teaching me Chemistry. Before the U14XV rugby players got out of the Lab we were all reminded of Rugby Practice if there was one that day. He never failed to do that. He must have left HGS in 1958.
David Nuttall
Dudley Taylor taught Chemistry at HGS and also later taught part time at Bretton Hall Teacher Training College. He had a strong association with Rugby Union at the Wakefield club at College Grove. I believe he passed away a few years ago. He was a fair, decent and likeable man and teacher.
Peter Cooper
I met Dudley at a sportsman’s dinner in Wakefield a few years ago. He left HGS just after I started and went to Ossett school I think. We chatted for a couple of minutes about HGS which he remembered fondly. Dave Nuttall is correct he passed away 3 or 4 years ago maybe more.
David McKenzie
I fondly remember him teaching me Chemistry. Before the U14XV rugby players got out of the Lab we were all reminded of Rugby Practice if there was one that day. He never failed to do that. He must have left HGS in 1958.
Mr Taylor on Duty
Here's a photo from the Fifties which was sent in by Keith Oliver. It looks as if Mr Dudley Taylor (a departmental colleague of Mr Owen) was possibly on duty outside Room 21 (New Block). That was 1A's classroom in my day. Assistant Prefects used the room when they were on duty in that area. That was 1960-61 for me.
Dave
Dave
Mr Taylor, typical of many HGS staff, was willing to help in any way with the Staff Plays of the 1950s. Behind the scenes he was a very capable Assistant Stage manager. Treading the boards he added humour to several characterisations of a supporting nature. The audiences appreciated his comedic skills. More detail can be found in the Staff Plays 1950-54.
Peter Fisher wrote in 2002:
"We wrote and produced a Pantomime and put it on for the school one Christmas. I think it was called Cinderella but I am not sure about that. I played somebody called Sing Lo and Dudley Taylor played Sing Hi. We were the comics. How’d you guess? Where they come into Cinderella, who knows, but that’s panto! The point of the story is that Mr Combs, art teacher at the time, did the make up and also took individual photos of some of the cast. He made a collage of it which was framed. It used to hang somewhere next to the Prefects Room and the door leading down to the basement. Is the collage still around? I would expect not, but wouldn’t it be great to get a copy of that. Do you know it? Whats the odds on that one???"
"We wrote and produced a Pantomime and put it on for the school one Christmas. I think it was called Cinderella but I am not sure about that. I played somebody called Sing Lo and Dudley Taylor played Sing Hi. We were the comics. How’d you guess? Where they come into Cinderella, who knows, but that’s panto! The point of the story is that Mr Combs, art teacher at the time, did the make up and also took individual photos of some of the cast. He made a collage of it which was framed. It used to hang somewhere next to the Prefects Room and the door leading down to the basement. Is the collage still around? I would expect not, but wouldn’t it be great to get a copy of that. Do you know it? Whats the odds on that one???"
Staff Cricket Team 1956
Mr Taylor appeared several times for the Staff Cricket Team. The photo was taken in front of the Pavilion.
Mr Taylor appeared several times for the Staff Cricket Team. The photo was taken in front of the Pavilion.
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
6. The school as a Grammar School
A very important place in our personal histories.
What a shame it had to change. We will all have so many memories of these buildings and grounds. The Forecourt and Main Entrance steps were the obvious choices for group photographs. We will never know how many photographs were taken in the two prime locations. I assume Major Jenkinson started things off with the very early Staff photo. The HGS website has a large number of photos from Mr Hamilton's personal albums but there are so many gaps, especially from the 1920s and 1930s during the AGJ Headship years. I find these breaks in continuity to be so sad. However, the search goes on.
What a shame it had to change. We will all have so many memories of these buildings and grounds. The Forecourt and Main Entrance steps were the obvious choices for group photographs. We will never know how many photographs were taken in the two prime locations. I assume Major Jenkinson started things off with the very early Staff photo. The HGS website has a large number of photos from Mr Hamilton's personal albums but there are so many gaps, especially from the 1920s and 1930s during the AGJ Headship years. I find these breaks in continuity to be so sad. However, the search goes on.
The East Side showing the Main Playground and Craft Block
The New Science Wing before the New Block was built
Top Corridor Entrance
If you entered the school via the Top Corridor Entrance, Mr Sale's General Science Room was on your right. If you turned left you went down some steps. That corridor had 3 classrooms. I remember Miss Tate coming out of the first one. Perhaps that was a Needlework room. There were two more classrooms. Dinner tickets were sold in one of these rooms and they were used for wet breaks and wet dinner times. Then came the boys' cloakroom. Wooden lockers were on the quadrangle side of the corridor. The Boys' washroom was at the end of the corridor on the lockers side.
The first floor rooms when viewed from the playground were:
L-R: Room 13 (the Geography Room), 14, 15 and then the Art Room. I note that this photo was taken before the New Block was built. I spent a lot of time in these rooms but not Room 14 - I never even went in it!
What a great playground for slides, buses and touch and pass with a cap. The Dell was through the gap in the distance and then bear left. The Woodwork Room of Mr Atack is shown in the Coach House.
What a lovely place to go to Secondary School and in Winter it was always warmer by the boiler house.
If you entered the school via the Top Corridor Entrance, Mr Sale's General Science Room was on your right. If you turned left you went down some steps. That corridor had 3 classrooms. I remember Miss Tate coming out of the first one. Perhaps that was a Needlework room. There were two more classrooms. Dinner tickets were sold in one of these rooms and they were used for wet breaks and wet dinner times. Then came the boys' cloakroom. Wooden lockers were on the quadrangle side of the corridor. The Boys' washroom was at the end of the corridor on the lockers side.
The first floor rooms when viewed from the playground were:
L-R: Room 13 (the Geography Room), 14, 15 and then the Art Room. I note that this photo was taken before the New Block was built. I spent a lot of time in these rooms but not Room 14 - I never even went in it!
What a great playground for slides, buses and touch and pass with a cap. The Dell was through the gap in the distance and then bear left. The Woodwork Room of Mr Atack is shown in the Coach House.
What a lovely place to go to Secondary School and in Winter it was always warmer by the boiler house.
Conversation
Terry McCroakam
The rooms were numbered as follows:
Ground floor, clockwise, Room 1 was opposite The Heads room at the main entrance. Room 2 was the Music room, the Hall, then room 3, was better known as Needlework, 4 Physics, 5 Chemistry, (corridor entrance), then 6 Biology, 7 and 8 classrooms, room 9 The Head's Room backed on to it. If it was noisy waiting for a teacher Mr Hamilton would appear. The Prefects' rooms were on the opposite side of the corridor. Then it was past the Stars/Stripes board upstairs to room 10. There was a small room opposite the Biology room which went into the quad. It was used for teaching small A level 6th form groups.
Before the buildings were changed in 1967 there were 2 rooms on the "green" patch shown to the right of where pupils are seen walking on the Boys' Playground. They were called West Riding 1 and 2.
Terry McCroakam
The rooms were numbered as follows:
Ground floor, clockwise, Room 1 was opposite The Heads room at the main entrance. Room 2 was the Music room, the Hall, then room 3, was better known as Needlework, 4 Physics, 5 Chemistry, (corridor entrance), then 6 Biology, 7 and 8 classrooms, room 9 The Head's Room backed on to it. If it was noisy waiting for a teacher Mr Hamilton would appear. The Prefects' rooms were on the opposite side of the corridor. Then it was past the Stars/Stripes board upstairs to room 10. There was a small room opposite the Biology room which went into the quad. It was used for teaching small A level 6th form groups.
Before the buildings were changed in 1967 there were 2 rooms on the "green" patch shown to the right of where pupils are seen walking on the Boys' Playground. They were called West Riding 1 and 2.
Marrion Pearson and the Drawing Office
Photo: Pearson
Keith Twigg
I have a recollection of a pigsty near the Woodwork Room. Can you throw some light on this Mac or is it in my imagination?
Terry McCroakam
The pig sty was near the room known as The Dog 'Ole, since it had been a Drawing Office next to the Ernie Atack's Woodwork Room. This can be seen on the whole school photo above and on the Marrion Pearson photo above.
John Robinson
Wasn't the Dog 'Ole also the Form Room for 1E? I'm sure this was so in 1957.
Terry McCroakam
Yes, John. It was a form room and a teaching room.
Peter Cooper
John, you could be right because I think there were only 4 classrooms in the ‘new’ first form block
John Robinson
Hi, Pete. In 1957 I came from Holgate School in Hemsworth. Many of us were in 1B, Room 22, but one of my friends finished up in 1E. It was a right tip, only about 15 in the class. I think there had been an underestimation of the number of the new intake, and made it an emergency classroom.
I have a recollection of a pigsty near the Woodwork Room. Can you throw some light on this Mac or is it in my imagination?
Terry McCroakam
The pig sty was near the room known as The Dog 'Ole, since it had been a Drawing Office next to the Ernie Atack's Woodwork Room. This can be seen on the whole school photo above and on the Marrion Pearson photo above.
John Robinson
Wasn't the Dog 'Ole also the Form Room for 1E? I'm sure this was so in 1957.
Terry McCroakam
Yes, John. It was a form room and a teaching room.
Peter Cooper
John, you could be right because I think there were only 4 classrooms in the ‘new’ first form block
John Robinson
Hi, Pete. In 1957 I came from Holgate School in Hemsworth. Many of us were in 1B, Room 22, but one of my friends finished up in 1E. It was a right tip, only about 15 in the class. I think there had been an underestimation of the number of the new intake, and made it an emergency classroom.
7. The Main Hall Gym and the New Gymnasium
HGS enjoyed the use of two gymnasia from late 1956 onwards
HGS enjoyed the use of two gymnasia from late 1956 onwards
Below is the Main Hall/ Old Gymnasium which was in use as a gym from the late 1920s to 1967 when the school closed.
The Main Hall was the original gymnasium of the school. Apart from those functions associated with physical activity, it was also used for the Test Exams (Mocks), O Levels, A Levels, Daily Assemblies, School and Staff plays, Concerts, Exhibitions, Dances, Wet Lunchtimes and probably more things as well. It was a very busy place. A new Gym was definitely needed in the mid 1950s.
Mr Nelson
P.E. Teacher Late 1930s
P.E. Teacher Late 1930s
|
|
|
|
Mr W.J. Leonard
P.E. Teacher 1940-56 |
Mr Tate
P.E. Teacher 1956-64 |
Mr D. Wilkinson
P.E. Teacher 1964-67 |
|
|
|
|
Miss Rainford
P.E. Teacher 1940-41 |
Miss Freestone
P.E. Teacher 1941-44 |
Miss J. Dunbar
P.E. Teacher 1944-46 |
|
|
|
Miss D. Lawton
P.E. Teacher 1947-48 |
Miss Woodward / Mrs Owen
P.E. Teacher 1948-52 and 1956-57 |
|
|
|
Miss J. E. Parkin / Mrs Blatherwick
P.E Teacher 1952-57 |
Miss O. Walker
P.E Teacher 1957-59 |
|
|
|
|
Miss M Musgrave
P.E. Teacher 1959-63 |
Miss E. Alliott
P.E. Teacher 1963-66 |
Miss S. Jackson
P.E. Teacher 1966-67 |
This is where I first "met" Mr Tate in my Form's first P.E. lesson with him in 1956 when he had taken over from Mr Leonard. I was a First Year pupil and was stood in just my white shorts and pumps with my arms folded and my back to the corridor. He came up behind me and put my arms by my side. 1C boys were totally silent. He did not say anything but looked like he could! It turned out to be a great lesson. I eventually worked with him for two years in 1967-69 at a different school. His enthusiasm always carried you along. I can still hear his forceful but melodic "Stop" as he prepared to change the lesson activity.
This second photo shows the stage in its lower setting, House shields, the staff chairs, the Lectern, some small Honours Boards and the two pianos.
Terry McCroakam
The Main Hall had two levels of staging. The one here is the lower level so there were obviously no plays on at the time of the photo.
Terry McCroakam
The Main Hall had two levels of staging. The one here is the lower level so there were obviously no plays on at the time of the photo.
The view from the Stage
Who could climb to the top of the ropes. Not me. It was a long way to fall. The old Gym was well-equipped with ropes, climbing frame, beams, bucks, box, springboards, mats, wall-bars, benches, bean bags and other equipment, but it did not have any changing rooms or showers
The New Gymnasium
Below is the interior of the "New" Gymnasium which was opened in 1957, soon after Mr Tate arrived. Through the Gym window can be seen the Science Block which was built at the same time. Mr Tate is at the far end of the gymnasium helping someone on the Box. This facility had adjacent changing rooms and showers and was very popular.
Kenneth Johnson
You must have really appreciated the New Gym block with changing rooms and showers. Changing in the wooden hut must have been horrendous, especially for year group games in the winter.
Kenneth Johnson
You must have really appreciated the New Gym block with changing rooms and showers. Changing in the wooden hut must have been horrendous, especially for year group games in the winter.
An External view of the 1957 New Gym with its changing rooms
Behind the wall on the right is the garden of the caretaker's cottage. The tall trees on the right indicate the boundary between Mr Street's field and the First Team Rugby pitch. Between the far edge of the New Gym and the trees in the distance was a large playground which was well used for the Panoramic photographs of the school and games of tennis ball soccer.
Behind the wall on the right is the garden of the caretaker's cottage. The tall trees on the right indicate the boundary between Mr Street's field and the First Team Rugby pitch. Between the far edge of the New Gym and the trees in the distance was a large playground which was well used for the Panoramic photographs of the school and games of tennis ball soccer.
Below is the interior of the New Gym with a lesson in progress. Mr Tate is the teacher.
The equipment storeroom on the left was always left immaculate after a lesson with Mr Tate.
The equipment storeroom on the left was always left immaculate after a lesson with Mr Tate.
The above photo shows where the Final singing of the School Song took place.
This is covered in page "A Personal View 3", Item 6.
There was always something to do in these lessons even if it was just hanging from the wall-bars. Pirates was very popular on the last lesson of the term.
This is covered in page "A Personal View 3", Item 6.
There was always something to do in these lessons even if it was just hanging from the wall-bars. Pirates was very popular on the last lesson of the term.
