Articles 2
Updated 21.05.2024
6 articles
Updated 21.05.2024
6 articles
Here are three HGS teachers from the 1960s
L-R: Mr Minards, Mr Glenn and Mr Wilkinson by the Cricket Pavilion
Photo: Batey
Photo: Batey
Table of Contents
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1. An email from Sid Kenningham
2. A comment from Daphne 3. HGS appreciation from Jean and Tony 4. The Friday Club, 1962-63 5. First impressions, lasting memories |
6. Mr Jenkinson, Speech Day 1927
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Contact from Sid Kenningham, HGS 1950-59 and later the Headmaster of The Kings School, Pontefract.
Dear Dave,
Absolutely brilliant! I was told about your terrific website a fortnight ago, by Les Thomas (photo below), just before going off to France. I had 2 wonderful afternoons of blissful nostalgia and was determined that, when I returned home, I would contact you as a matter of urgency! The photographs and the reminiscences from former schoolmates and acquaintances, certainly rekindle memories and voices from the past, leaving warm feelings and appreciation of all that was best at H.G.S. Happy days!
I had the great fortune to be a pupil at the school throughout the 50’s, commencing in Sept 1950 and finishing in July 1959 .... as the oldest student in the school - sharing, I understand, the dubious honour of being the longest serving ‘schoolboy’ in the school’s history, along with, I believe, Brian Ardron, who was slightly before my time! - or so the legend goes! Moreover, I was also one of that ‘selected band’, along with people like Les Tate, George Pacy, Dick Whittaker, Peter Wall, Derek Wilkinson, Terry McCroakam, Eileen Tate, Eric Twigg, Wendy Jennings, Frank Morley and Albert Parkin, who were both pupils and teachers at the school. In my case, in the last year of the ‘grammar school era’, in the academic year 1967/8.
Absolutely brilliant! I was told about your terrific website a fortnight ago, by Les Thomas (photo below), just before going off to France. I had 2 wonderful afternoons of blissful nostalgia and was determined that, when I returned home, I would contact you as a matter of urgency! The photographs and the reminiscences from former schoolmates and acquaintances, certainly rekindle memories and voices from the past, leaving warm feelings and appreciation of all that was best at H.G.S. Happy days!
I had the great fortune to be a pupil at the school throughout the 50’s, commencing in Sept 1950 and finishing in July 1959 .... as the oldest student in the school - sharing, I understand, the dubious honour of being the longest serving ‘schoolboy’ in the school’s history, along with, I believe, Brian Ardron, who was slightly before my time! - or so the legend goes! Moreover, I was also one of that ‘selected band’, along with people like Les Tate, George Pacy, Dick Whittaker, Peter Wall, Derek Wilkinson, Terry McCroakam, Eileen Tate, Eric Twigg, Wendy Jennings, Frank Morley and Albert Parkin, who were both pupils and teachers at the school. In my case, in the last year of the ‘grammar school era’, in the academic year 1967/8.
Les Thomas, HGS 1949-54
HGS pupils who became Teachers at HGS
Les Tate
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George Pacy
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Dick Whittaker
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Peter Wall
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Derek Wilkinson
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Terry McCroakam
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Eileen Tate
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Eric Twigg
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Wendy Jennings
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Frank Morley
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Albert Parkin
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I joined Talbot House because my cousin, John Hardy, preceded me. My other cousins, who followed me, Peter Hardy, Tony Kelly, Christine Kelly, John Kelly, David Freeman and Janet Freeman were similarly placed in Talbot. I was one of those ‘grey faces’, who tend to ‘float’ through all schools, until I found myself doing a second year in the ‘fifth’, and met up with the likes of ‘Bob’ Moore, Dave Toulson, ‘Cheb’ Vest and Rowland Hawcroft, who showed me how to ‘enjoy’ school, which meant getting ‘involved’ in the communal life of the school and partaking of all that it offered. Sport, drama, choirs, history and literary & debating societies, were all there to be had, ‘if you’d a mind’ to get involved.
The pupils mentioned by Sid
John Hardy
Janet Freeman
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Peter Hardy
"Bob" Moore
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Tony Kelly
Dave Toulson
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Christine Kelly
"Cheb" Vest
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John Kelly
Roland Hawcroft
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David Freeman
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H.G.S. may not have been the best ‘academic institution’, but it turned out some great ‘characters’, who subsequently made their respective ways in the world. Many of us had a great deal for which to thank the staff of H.G.S. who helped to shape our values and develop our personalities - and none more so than the revered R.W. Hamilton, who did his utmost to bring ‘pride’ and ‘standing’ to the school. Indeed, the verses of the ‘School Song’ encapsulated both his personal and educational philosophies; that you get out of life, what you are prepared to put into it.
Mr. R.W. Hamilton
Headmaster of Hemsworth Grammar School, 1937-67
Headmaster of Hemsworth Grammar School, 1937-67
Clearly, your venture is already a ‘roaring success’, judging from the responses of so many former pupils, and is going to grow and grow as more people become aware of its existence. You can be sure that I will do my best to broadcast it among the ‘old pupils’ that I come across - and I trust that others will do the same. I will start to gather together appropriate photos for submission. Never fear, I will be back in touch!
All my good wishes for the project.
Kind Regards,
Sid,
May 2003
All my good wishes for the project.
Kind Regards,
Sid,
May 2003
Dear Sid,
Thank you very much for your positive comments about the site. HGS certainly was a much loved place. I look back on my own seven years with great fondness. We cannot bring it back but we can pay it the respect it deserved. I do hope the site will continue to be visited by more and more Hilmians. We have not met since we played for the Hilmians Rugby XV in the late Sixties. I think you were the scrum half. I have been sent a photo which shows you and Isabell Snowden on the staff at Willowgarth (Brierley Grimethorpe Secondary). Perhaps you have it. If not I will send you a copy. Stan Horton, Malcolm Jenks and June Owen worked with me for many years. Fred Tipping (Headmaster) retired in 1971. I look forward to hearing from you again.
My very best wishes,
Dave
Sid and I met later in 2003. He provided the HGS site with a lot of HGS memorabilia which is now on the site.
Thank you very much for your positive comments about the site. HGS certainly was a much loved place. I look back on my own seven years with great fondness. We cannot bring it back but we can pay it the respect it deserved. I do hope the site will continue to be visited by more and more Hilmians. We have not met since we played for the Hilmians Rugby XV in the late Sixties. I think you were the scrum half. I have been sent a photo which shows you and Isabell Snowden on the staff at Willowgarth (Brierley Grimethorpe Secondary). Perhaps you have it. If not I will send you a copy. Stan Horton, Malcolm Jenks and June Owen worked with me for many years. Fred Tipping (Headmaster) retired in 1971. I look forward to hearing from you again.
My very best wishes,
Dave
Sid and I met later in 2003. He provided the HGS site with a lot of HGS memorabilia which is now on the site.
2. A comment from Daphne
"I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend HGS. I fail to see how our Grammar School could have been regarded as “elitist” and for the “privileged” as the huge majority of those who attended HGS were from ordinary working class families, sons and daughters of coal miners."
Daphne
Daphne
Dave supports Daphne's view
The "change of shift" buzzer no longer sounds and the huge waste tips of shale, sandstone, clay and other mining waste have gone. The loud sound at Upton Colliery was more like a siren or hooter, but the miners and their families called it a buzzer. We lived quite close to the colliery, on Harewood Lane. Many of the village miners, in their "pit muck", walked past our house at the change of shift. After Upton Pit Baths opened in 1952 - what a difference! This was a very positive change to post shift amenities.
The "change of shift" buzzer no longer sounds and the huge waste tips of shale, sandstone, clay and other mining waste have gone. The loud sound at Upton Colliery was more like a siren or hooter, but the miners and their families called it a buzzer. We lived quite close to the colliery, on Harewood Lane. Many of the village miners, in their "pit muck", walked past our house at the change of shift. After Upton Pit Baths opened in 1952 - what a difference! This was a very positive change to post shift amenities.
The photograph below illustrates the fact that HGS was located in a mining area. Was it an elitist school? After my seven years there, I doubt it.
Dave
Dave
Hockey on the school playing fields with a clear view of a local coal mine.
The majority of the pupils came from families which were dependent for employment upon the Primary Industries of Mining (Coal) and Agriculture. Tertiary Industries such as Retail and Services also provided significant employment for the Hemsworth area. Local Markets were very important e.g. South Elmsall. Some of these villages had "Co-ops", corner shops and their own mine e.g. Upton and Grimethorpe. When the mines were closing in the 1960s (e.g. Upton Colliery in 1964) local manufacturing developed, e.g. clothing, such as in South Kirkby and Upton, the latter using one of the former colliery's buildings. Over time, the villages gradually changed in function to be mainly dormitory settlements for the towns of Pontefract, Wakefield, Barnsley and Doncaster. That function continues to the present day with the addition of Leeds and Sheffield.
The Upton of today (2024) is very different to when I went to HGS in the mid-1950s and early 60s. Then adult social life, for example, was mainly home and village based with pubs (Greenfield and the Upton Arms), "working men's" clubs (Brookside, Wrangbrook and the Crow's Nest) and Bingo at the "Miners' Welfare". The young ones, especially in the 1950s when television was very limited, would hang around Parrot's Fish Shop, or go to "Uncle Bob's" Saturday morning Matinee at the Regent Cinema. They always showed a cartoon, like "Mighty Mouse" or "Heckle and Jeckle" and a serial like the "Purple Monster" or "Burn 'em up Barnes". If it was your birthday, Uncle Bob would put a film on screen which showed a birthday cake complete with candles. The music to Happy Birthday was played and the words to Happy Birthday appeared on the screen. Now the clever bit - a little white ball would bounce along the words to tell you what to sing and when to sing it. It was quite a rousing song at times!
In the evening the young ones would meet outside the Regent Cinema. When the cinema queues formed, we would say to the men "Tek us in, Mister" if it was an "A" certificate film. This was because juniors had to be accompanied by an adult. I never threw anything up into the projector beam. The usherettes would flash their torches at the people that did! Also I never rushed out before having to stand for the National Anthem.
The Upton of today (2024) is very different to when I went to HGS in the mid-1950s and early 60s. Then adult social life, for example, was mainly home and village based with pubs (Greenfield and the Upton Arms), "working men's" clubs (Brookside, Wrangbrook and the Crow's Nest) and Bingo at the "Miners' Welfare". The young ones, especially in the 1950s when television was very limited, would hang around Parrot's Fish Shop, or go to "Uncle Bob's" Saturday morning Matinee at the Regent Cinema. They always showed a cartoon, like "Mighty Mouse" or "Heckle and Jeckle" and a serial like the "Purple Monster" or "Burn 'em up Barnes". If it was your birthday, Uncle Bob would put a film on screen which showed a birthday cake complete with candles. The music to Happy Birthday was played and the words to Happy Birthday appeared on the screen. Now the clever bit - a little white ball would bounce along the words to tell you what to sing and when to sing it. It was quite a rousing song at times!
In the evening the young ones would meet outside the Regent Cinema. When the cinema queues formed, we would say to the men "Tek us in, Mister" if it was an "A" certificate film. This was because juniors had to be accompanied by an adult. I never threw anything up into the projector beam. The usherettes would flash their torches at the people that did! Also I never rushed out before having to stand for the National Anthem.
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Often when we were in the HGS Third Form (1957-58) we would go to Upton Youth Club which was situated opposite the Wimpey housing estate between "old" and "new" (i.e. mining related) Upton. I did not dance at all - I just did weight training!
Hardly elitist! So I agree with Daphne. Happy days, Dave |
Dave in 5S, 1960.
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More details may be added.
3. HGS appreciation from Jean and Tony
The HGS Head Boy and Head Girl of 1956-57
Terry McCroakam and Jean Snookes
Terry McCroakam and Jean Snookes
"It has seemed to me that the Prefects' Pledge tells of a place called school that is so particularly and peculiarly, so quintessentially, British."
Jean Snookes (HGS 1950-57, Head Girl 1956-57)
Dear Dave,
This is just fabulous to find this site ... for seven years I loved going to that place, HGS ... and as I've been exploring the site, I am amazed at how much comes flooding in, generalities and very detailed memories.
Let's see, at the moment I recall and would love to be in touch with: Eileen Hirst, Edith Horbury, Enid Horton, Wendy Jennings, Margaret Duprey, Kathleen Corcoran, Diana Glew, Gloria Farnsworth, Tony Pickering, John Abbott, Alan Ardon, Clive Goodwin, Ray Noble, Alec Wall, Geoff Marston (Marsden) and Jeff Hudson.
Jean Snookes (HGS 1950-57, Head Girl 1956-57)
Dear Dave,
This is just fabulous to find this site ... for seven years I loved going to that place, HGS ... and as I've been exploring the site, I am amazed at how much comes flooding in, generalities and very detailed memories.
Let's see, at the moment I recall and would love to be in touch with: Eileen Hirst, Edith Horbury, Enid Horton, Wendy Jennings, Margaret Duprey, Kathleen Corcoran, Diana Glew, Gloria Farnsworth, Tony Pickering, John Abbott, Alan Ardon, Clive Goodwin, Ray Noble, Alec Wall, Geoff Marston (Marsden) and Jeff Hudson.
Photographs of the HGS pupils mentioned
Eileen Hirst
Diana Glew
Ray Noble
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Edith Horbury
Gloria Farnsworth
Alec Wall
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Enid Horton
Tony Pickering
Geoff Marston
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Wendy Jennings
John Abbott
Jeff Hudson
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Margaret Duprey
Alan Ardon
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Kath Corcoran
Clive Goodwin
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Netball First Team 1955-56
On the Forecourt
On the Forecourt
Back Row L-R: Mrs A Podmore (Miss Collins), Brenda Ball, Jennifer Lindley, Mr Hamilton
Front Row L-R: Muriel Gamewell, Margaret Bloore, Jean Snookes, Gloria Farnsworth, Pamela Hall.
Primarily, on behalf of us all - well both - netball teams, I would like to extend our thanks to Mrs. Podmore for her help and advice during the season. Although this advice was often given, we did not seem able to produce the desired results. In fact we became accustomed to hearing on Monday morning, "The Netball Team lost....." We must, however, be a stubborn set, for we managed to end the season with two victories, one of which was the match with our old "enemies", Felkirk Modern School. We are particularly proud of our performance because in previous matches with this school, we have invariably had to be good losers. We managed to secure only two fixtures for the Juniors, which was a great pity for, although they were keen at the beginning, their enthusiasm flagged towards the end of the season. We understand their difficulty, and hope that next season they will re-appear with their interest. Most of this year's team members will be able to play again next year, so there should be an improvement.
Colours were awarded to E. Hirst and J. Snookes.
To the members I should like to say, "Keep Trying".
J. Snookes, LVIS, (Price)
Front Row L-R: Muriel Gamewell, Margaret Bloore, Jean Snookes, Gloria Farnsworth, Pamela Hall.
Primarily, on behalf of us all - well both - netball teams, I would like to extend our thanks to Mrs. Podmore for her help and advice during the season. Although this advice was often given, we did not seem able to produce the desired results. In fact we became accustomed to hearing on Monday morning, "The Netball Team lost....." We must, however, be a stubborn set, for we managed to end the season with two victories, one of which was the match with our old "enemies", Felkirk Modern School. We are particularly proud of our performance because in previous matches with this school, we have invariably had to be good losers. We managed to secure only two fixtures for the Juniors, which was a great pity for, although they were keen at the beginning, their enthusiasm flagged towards the end of the season. We understand their difficulty, and hope that next season they will re-appear with their interest. Most of this year's team members will be able to play again next year, so there should be an improvement.
Colours were awarded to E. Hirst and J. Snookes.
To the members I should like to say, "Keep Trying".
J. Snookes, LVIS, (Price)
I went to Manchester University from school, in 1957; taught Sciences for two years in Yorkshire then left for Ghana. I was there teaching for four years. I went onto Nigeria for three years (eradicating smallpox!!), arrived in the U.S. of A in 1969 and have lived here ever since. I work part time taking care of two grandchildren and part time as Consulting Associate Professor of Science Education at Stanford University.
I would like both to contribute to the site (see my email suggesting I send copies of lots of old photos) and to connect with old friends.
All good wishes,
Jean ... aka "Jeannie" (March 2003)
I would like both to contribute to the site (see my email suggesting I send copies of lots of old photos) and to connect with old friends.
All good wishes,
Jean ... aka "Jeannie" (March 2003)
Dear Jean,
Lovely to hear from you. HGS still lives on in the hearts and minds of so many people. Please feel free to let the site have whatever you wish. We do have a long way to go before the record is complete. Perhaps the simplest way to get material to the site is to email large, clear scans of photographs. Some of your year have already got in touch with the site. Perhaps some of the familiar names there will be able to put you into contact with others from your year. When you can find the time, it would be great if you could send in some personal memories of HGS. Best wishes,
Dave McKenzie
Lovely to hear from you. HGS still lives on in the hearts and minds of so many people. Please feel free to let the site have whatever you wish. We do have a long way to go before the record is complete. Perhaps the simplest way to get material to the site is to email large, clear scans of photographs. Some of your year have already got in touch with the site. Perhaps some of the familiar names there will be able to put you into contact with others from your year. When you can find the time, it would be great if you could send in some personal memories of HGS. Best wishes,
Dave McKenzie
Tony Pickering, HGS 1952-58
Hi Dave,
Many thanks to Ray Noble for putting me in contact with this site. Universal themes in all the comments on the site are the fond memories and gratitude to Hemsworth Grammar School; in this regard I am no exception.
As a transfer scholar from the Modern School I had a lot of catching up to do - missing out 5th year and joining L6S and the competition of Jean Snookes et al. This did not hinder taking part in other school activities such as Colts rugby XV, 1st Rugby XV, Tennis, Athletics, School Play and Inter-House competitions - all with great enjoyment apart from the cross-country run!
Many thanks to Ray Noble for putting me in contact with this site. Universal themes in all the comments on the site are the fond memories and gratitude to Hemsworth Grammar School; in this regard I am no exception.
As a transfer scholar from the Modern School I had a lot of catching up to do - missing out 5th year and joining L6S and the competition of Jean Snookes et al. This did not hinder taking part in other school activities such as Colts rugby XV, 1st Rugby XV, Tennis, Athletics, School Play and Inter-House competitions - all with great enjoyment apart from the cross-country run!
Ray Noble
HGS 1950-58
HGS 1950-58
Against this background of secondary education, I am eternally grateful to the old school in helping gain entrance to the Medical School of Edinburgh University. This month I have retired from clinical practice after 37 years, latterly spent as Consultant Eye-Surgeon here in Swansea - I just hope my elder daughter enjoys medical practice as much as I have.
Time now for more travel and golf, and to contemplate with my male contemporaries, the prospect of being called an O.A.P. next year!!
Best wishes,
Tony Pickering, Price House, 1952-58
(August 2003)
Time now for more travel and golf, and to contemplate with my male contemporaries, the prospect of being called an O.A.P. next year!!
Best wishes,
Tony Pickering, Price House, 1952-58
(August 2003)
The HGS 1st XV Rugby Team 1956-57
Photo from Terry McCroakam. Thank you, Terry.
Back Row L-R: J. Riggott, J. Mansfield, R. Homer, A. Pickering, C. Garbett, R. Donkin
Middle Row L-R: P. Donaldson, A. Ardron, Mr. Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Taylor, T. Parkinson, R. Stansfield
Front Row L-R: T. McCroakam, C. Appleby, B. Moore, B. Longden, D. Toulson, J. Wild, D. King
Back Row L-R: J. Riggott, J. Mansfield, R. Homer, A. Pickering, C. Garbett, R. Donkin
Middle Row L-R: P. Donaldson, A. Ardron, Mr. Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Taylor, T. Parkinson, R. Stansfield
Front Row L-R: T. McCroakam, C. Appleby, B. Moore, B. Longden, D. Toulson, J. Wild, D. King
Tennis 1st VI 1957-58
Back Row L-R: Robert Brett, Alan Ardron, Mr. C. Owen, Colin Garbett
Front Row L-R: Clive Goodwin, Tony Pickering, Ray Noble
Front Row L-R: Clive Goodwin, Tony Pickering, Ray Noble
HGS W.R.C.C. Huddersfield Shield winners 1955-56
Back Row L-R: Mr Hamilton, Mrs Blatherwick, Roland Hawcroft, Tony Pickering, Slater P., Howard Peel, Mr Walker, Mr Tate.
Fourth Row L-R: Ray Griffiths, Ron Hooley, Geoffrey Vodden, Peter Weston, Eric Eden, David Mosley, Pratt R. Melvyn Snookes, Sykes Beaumont.
Third Row L-R: Georgina Sowerby, Susan Butcher, Pamela Hall, Brenda Nettleton, Jennifer Hayton, Hilary Goodchild, Sandra Thornton, Pat Studd, Winifred Jones.
Second Row L-R: R. Jones, Dilys Hughes, Mary Ellis, Helen. Foster, Julia Street, Irene Thorpe, Sheila Delbridge, Nora Carlile, Ellen Toulson, Sheila Kelsall.
Front Row L-R: Jean Snookes, Margaret Bloore, Jean Nuttall, Maureen Mathers, Pat Brooke, Colin Hellewell, Roy Homer, John Mansfield, Ralph Winstanley, David King.
Fourth Row L-R: Ray Griffiths, Ron Hooley, Geoffrey Vodden, Peter Weston, Eric Eden, David Mosley, Pratt R. Melvyn Snookes, Sykes Beaumont.
Third Row L-R: Georgina Sowerby, Susan Butcher, Pamela Hall, Brenda Nettleton, Jennifer Hayton, Hilary Goodchild, Sandra Thornton, Pat Studd, Winifred Jones.
Second Row L-R: R. Jones, Dilys Hughes, Mary Ellis, Helen. Foster, Julia Street, Irene Thorpe, Sheila Delbridge, Nora Carlile, Ellen Toulson, Sheila Kelsall.
Front Row L-R: Jean Snookes, Margaret Bloore, Jean Nuttall, Maureen Mathers, Pat Brooke, Colin Hellewell, Roy Homer, John Mansfield, Ralph Winstanley, David King.
4. The Friday Club, 1962-63
Throughout the year, the Friday Club has maintained its popularity. At the 16 meetings held, there was an average attendance of 83 with an outstanding attendance of 119 on 8th April ('Juke Box Jury').
The Committee was as follows: Secretary, Isabel Colpitts, Margaret Birkin, Theresa Cosgrove, Nova Websdale, David Freeman, Brian Lees, Melvin Midgley. Acting Chairmen: Dave Freeman, Alvin Bashforth, John Connolly, Stan Hunt, Christine Nicholson, Judith Gunhouse, Alan Lascelles. Our sincere thanks go to Messrs. Hassall, Hudson, Reed and Minards for their constant enthusiasm, and to Neville Sutcliffe (U6A) for his excellent posters.
The Committee was as follows: Secretary, Isabel Colpitts, Margaret Birkin, Theresa Cosgrove, Nova Websdale, David Freeman, Brian Lees, Melvin Midgley. Acting Chairmen: Dave Freeman, Alvin Bashforth, John Connolly, Stan Hunt, Christine Nicholson, Judith Gunhouse, Alan Lascelles. Our sincere thanks go to Messrs. Hassall, Hudson, Reed and Minards for their constant enthusiasm, and to Neville Sutcliffe (U6A) for his excellent posters.
Members of the Committee
Margaret Birkin
Melvin Midgley
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Theresa Cosgrove
Alvin Bashforth
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Nova Websdale
John Connolly
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David Freeman
Stan Hunt
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Brian Lees
Christine Nicholson
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Alan Lascelles
Our sincere thanks go to Messrs. Hassall, Hudson, Reed and Minards for their constant enthusiasm, and to Neville Sutcliffe (U6A) for his excellent posters.
Mr. Hassall
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Mr. Hudson
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Mr. Reed
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Mr. Minards
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Neville Sutcliffe
Some interesting opinions emerged from the two debates of the year. Stones, seconded by Donohue, proposed the motion 'Scientific Progress leads to happiness', and Lascelles, seconded by Lees, opposed it. The House failed to reach a decision. In the second debate, Sylvia Rayson, seconded by Lowe, gamely proposed the motion that 'The Monarchy should be abolished', but the eloquence of Lascelles seconded by Christine Nicholson (L6S) ensured the defeat of the motion. We heard an unusual number of visiting speakers during the year. The first, Gwen Cavanagh and Jim Evison spoke about life at University; Mr. P. Adamson, Vicar of Hemsworth, gave an interesting talk on 'Suffering and Divorce' ; from Leeds University came Dr. D. W. Scott to speak about life in California; Miss I. Booker gave a fascinating talk about the work of Danilo Dolci ; a journalist, Mr. H. K. Bolton, lectured about 'Journalism as a Career', and Mr. H. Harrison spoke about the Treak Cliff Cavern in Derbyshire. Our last speaker was Miss Mildred White, who told us about her life as headmistress of a girls' school in Pakistan. Early in the year, a panel of three members of staff and two Sixth formers answered questions put by members of the audience; in a later meeting, members of staff questioned a panel of Sixth Formers. One of the meetings took the form of a 'Top of the Form' quiz, involving members of 5th and 6th forms. Questions were set by the Headmaster and various members of staff. The final score was: 5th, 23 points ; 6A, 23 points; 6S, 20 points. One evening was devoted to films: 'War Under the Microscope' and 'Yorkshire Sands'. Later, three Sixth formers, Theresa Cosgrove, Margaret Purcell and Lascelles spoke about their experiences in Singapore, Germany and Spain respectively. The most humorous meeting of the year was the Mock Trial of William Shakespeare when Freeman, as the Bard, was found guilty of corrupting the morals of the young. In all, it has been a most successful and enjoyable year; we can look forward to next year with confidence.
Isabel Colpitts, Secretary
Isabel Colpitts, Secretary
5. First impressions, lasting memories
Extracted from the page "Have you been back?"
Under construction
Extracted from the page "Have you been back?"
Under construction
On to the Music Room. Although I have memories of Miss Carter and her Music lessons, they were not connected to this room, but were given to the classes of my first-year in the classroom opposite the Head’s study.
It was Mr. Boyd and Miss Evans who held Choir and Orchestra practices in this room. It was the former General Science classroom of Mr Sale (1955-56). All the School’s classes had Music here at least once a week, and would sing, accompanied by the teacher on the piano which was wheeled out of the storeroom near the French windows. In there were kept the books and sheet music for the choirs, the musical instruments, the records and the gramophone player (West Riding Issue) with its plywood case and hinged lid. Unlike the other two rooms along this wing of the School, it had windows on three sides, making it seem bright, light and airy, somehow.
It was Mr. Boyd and Miss Evans who held Choir and Orchestra practices in this room. It was the former General Science classroom of Mr Sale (1955-56). All the School’s classes had Music here at least once a week, and would sing, accompanied by the teacher on the piano which was wheeled out of the storeroom near the French windows. In there were kept the books and sheet music for the choirs, the musical instruments, the records and the gramophone player (West Riding Issue) with its plywood case and hinged lid. Unlike the other two rooms along this wing of the School, it had windows on three sides, making it seem bright, light and airy, somehow.
School Orchestra 1948-49
Photo from Joyce and Michael Dixon. Additional names from Peter Wall. Thank you.
Back Row L-R: Bill Greasley, Colin Megson, Brian Toyne, Eric Sale, Don Richardson, David Parker.
Middle Row L-R: Ella Godwin, Daphne Akred, Edith Lill, Keith Megson, Bywater, Alan Goodinson, Betty Allen, Joyce Dixon.
Front Row L-R: Michael Nurney (drum) Faye Hollinshead, Grace Roberts, Barbara Collette, Doreen Worsfold, Mr. Hamilton, Miss Carter, Mr. Renhard, Bill Dando, Brian Laughton, Keith Lodge, Eric May, Powell (drum)
Back Row L-R: Bill Greasley, Colin Megson, Brian Toyne, Eric Sale, Don Richardson, David Parker.
Middle Row L-R: Ella Godwin, Daphne Akred, Edith Lill, Keith Megson, Bywater, Alan Goodinson, Betty Allen, Joyce Dixon.
Front Row L-R: Michael Nurney (drum) Faye Hollinshead, Grace Roberts, Barbara Collette, Doreen Worsfold, Mr. Hamilton, Miss Carter, Mr. Renhard, Bill Dando, Brian Laughton, Keith Lodge, Eric May, Powell (drum)
Miss Carter
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Mr Boyd
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Miss Evans
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Mr Sale
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Mr Renhard (Violin Tutor)
The desks stood in rows, and were of a light-coloured wood, the floor was again, untreated floorboards. The blackboard was there, with its staves painted on in lines, and a teachers’ desk, from which the register was called during first lesson of the mornings and afternoons for the form which had the Music Room as its Form Room. I don’t ever recall anyone having the temerity to ‘bunk off’ lessons, though it may have happened. A high, white ceiling provided good acoustics, and the uplifting atmosphere of the room played its part in the many individual and joint achievements in the Music Concerts, House Competitions and performances on a wider stage. Could this be the same room? I saw a lowered, soundabsorbent squared ceiling and the all-pervading carpeted floor. What is this fascination for carpets in schools? They become unhygienic; require electricity to clean them properly; require regular expensive replacement and more importantly, seem to be an unspoken acknowledgement that young people can not control the way they move and speak so as not to disturb others. Today’s Music Room is another of those multi-use spaces which disappointingly lost all of its character and atmosphere when the carpet fitters and ceiling construction companies moved in.
Below
The Ground Floor Rooms were, L-R, the Boys' Cloakroom, Rooms 8, 7 and 6 (Needlework).
The First Floor Rooms were, L-R, 13 (Geography), 14, 15 and the Art Room (no windows facing towards the camera).
The General Science/Chemistry then Music Room referred to in the text was on the Ground Floor on the right, past the Entrance Door.
The Ground Floor Rooms were, L-R, the Boys' Cloakroom, Rooms 8, 7 and 6 (Needlework).
The First Floor Rooms were, L-R, 13 (Geography), 14, 15 and the Art Room (no windows facing towards the camera).
The General Science/Chemistry then Music Room referred to in the text was on the Ground Floor on the right, past the Entrance Door.
Below is the Main Block and playground pre-1967.
Here we would queue for the buses which would take us to our villages at the end of the school day.
Here we would queue for the buses which would take us to our villages at the end of the school day.
Sadly, the same story can be told of the other three classrooms (photo above) leading down to the Boys’ Entrance. I came away from the classrooms feeling much the same as a time-traveller from the Shakers would, after being dumped into an over-stuffy, cluttered Victorian Drawing Room.
Sheila
Sheila
6. Mr Jenkinson, Speech Day 1927
The Headmaster's Report
The Headmaster's Report
A.G. Jenkinson, HSS/HGS Headmaster 1921-37
In his annual report, Mr. A.G. Jenkinson reiterated the urgent requirement of the school for further classroom accommodation. The new Hall was being used for ordinary classwork as well as physical exercise, but there were still five forms without proper classroom accommodation. A new dining room was also badly needed, and the kitchen accommodation was quite inadequate to deal with the 200 diners which were now being served daily. An inspection of the school had taken place during the previous term, and the Board of Education inspectors expressed themselves satisfied, saying, "The appearance and manners of both boys and girls are excellent, and the tone and discipline of the school are good. The school has clearly made a good start, and a firm foundation for future good work has been laid." Two additional forms had been added to the school, and Form I had been merged into IId. Next July two forms, Va and Vb, would be taking the School Certificate Examination, and the curriculum of the school had also been extended in several directions.
School Certificate Examinations
The results in the School Certificate exams last July were disappointing, and fell considerably short of those for the previous year; but in the Higher Certificate, which was taken for the first time, the results were good. Of seven candidates, five passed, and one, who obtained a distinction in History, was awarded a County Major scholarship. In the School Certificate, 16 candidates passed and seven matriculated.
The Value of Homework
The training of pupils in independent and individual thought was valuable, and facilitated by unsupervised work at home. Conditions in homes varied greatly, but in response to requests, he had arranged for every parent to have a copy of the homework timetable, so that they might do their share by seeing that the proper work was done.
School Activities
During the year, the school had taken part in the usual reading competition, at which the rector of Hemsworth (Canon Williams) adjudicated, and had showed intelligence and care. The school had a good library, containing some 450 books, but suffered from the lack of a proper reading room; this was, however, part of the new buildings scheme, and in his opinion as serious a need as that for classrooms and dining room. There was also during the year an inter-house musical competition, including classes for piano, violin, solo singing and choral singing. Miss Purdon adjudicated, and considerable enthusiasm was shown. The school choir had competed as usual at Pontefract, and had been awarded 176 marks, with a first class certificate; and for sight reading 78 marks out of 100. The school had taken part in the Folk Dancing Festival at Pontefract, and won two first-class and seven second-class certificates, as well as the banner put up for competition among secondary schools. An art club had been formed by Mr. Taylor, and had a fairly large membership. In games, too, the school had done well, though there was great need for tennis courts for the girls. The successful organisation of games in the school was due largely to the care and energy of members of the staff and to the school captains. Sports were held as usual on parents' day, and were a great success. A course of public lectures had been launched, and were proving an appreciated feature. It was hoped to produce the first school play in the hall at the end of the term.
The Staff and Prefects
The ready co-operation and interest of his colleagues was much appreciated by Mr. Jenkinson. During the year, the staff had been augmented by three more teachers for Latin, Mathematics and Physics, and by an English and French mistress. A full time teacher had been engaged to take charge of the Domestic Science Department, which had meant the departure of a part-time teacher, Miss Morrison, whom they were all sorry to lose. He commended that the work done by the School Prefects and particularly by the two heads of the school for the way in which they had lived up to the responsibilities of their position, and he emphasised the importance of the last two years of school life, between 16 and 18, in the formation of character and the training for a career. It was worth some sacrifice by the parents to ensure for their children this invaluable period of school life, and he was glad to believe that this obligation was in his school being satisfactorily discharged.
School Certificate Examinations
The results in the School Certificate exams last July were disappointing, and fell considerably short of those for the previous year; but in the Higher Certificate, which was taken for the first time, the results were good. Of seven candidates, five passed, and one, who obtained a distinction in History, was awarded a County Major scholarship. In the School Certificate, 16 candidates passed and seven matriculated.
The Value of Homework
The training of pupils in independent and individual thought was valuable, and facilitated by unsupervised work at home. Conditions in homes varied greatly, but in response to requests, he had arranged for every parent to have a copy of the homework timetable, so that they might do their share by seeing that the proper work was done.
School Activities
During the year, the school had taken part in the usual reading competition, at which the rector of Hemsworth (Canon Williams) adjudicated, and had showed intelligence and care. The school had a good library, containing some 450 books, but suffered from the lack of a proper reading room; this was, however, part of the new buildings scheme, and in his opinion as serious a need as that for classrooms and dining room. There was also during the year an inter-house musical competition, including classes for piano, violin, solo singing and choral singing. Miss Purdon adjudicated, and considerable enthusiasm was shown. The school choir had competed as usual at Pontefract, and had been awarded 176 marks, with a first class certificate; and for sight reading 78 marks out of 100. The school had taken part in the Folk Dancing Festival at Pontefract, and won two first-class and seven second-class certificates, as well as the banner put up for competition among secondary schools. An art club had been formed by Mr. Taylor, and had a fairly large membership. In games, too, the school had done well, though there was great need for tennis courts for the girls. The successful organisation of games in the school was due largely to the care and energy of members of the staff and to the school captains. Sports were held as usual on parents' day, and were a great success. A course of public lectures had been launched, and were proving an appreciated feature. It was hoped to produce the first school play in the hall at the end of the term.
The Staff and Prefects
The ready co-operation and interest of his colleagues was much appreciated by Mr. Jenkinson. During the year, the staff had been augmented by three more teachers for Latin, Mathematics and Physics, and by an English and French mistress. A full time teacher had been engaged to take charge of the Domestic Science Department, which had meant the departure of a part-time teacher, Miss Morrison, whom they were all sorry to lose. He commended that the work done by the School Prefects and particularly by the two heads of the school for the way in which they had lived up to the responsibilities of their position, and he emphasised the importance of the last two years of school life, between 16 and 18, in the formation of character and the training for a career. It was worth some sacrifice by the parents to ensure for their children this invaluable period of school life, and he was glad to believe that this obligation was in his school being satisfactorily discharged.
