Posts about HGS (5)
Updated 21.11.2023
Updated 21.11.2023
Country Dancing in the Quadrangle in 1948
Photo from Irene Wright. Thank you.
Photo from Irene Wright. Thank you.
Irene Wright
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Table of Contents
1. School Trips were quite rare 2. Nostalgic for a moment 3. Character 4. The Top Corridor 5. Six HGS facts from Terry |
6. Formal Times and a rigid system
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1. School Trips were quite rare
As I remember it, school trips, with the exception of travelling to away Sports fixtures, were rare and working from textbooks, apart from in practical lesson, was the norm. I think I only went on one curriculum-related trip in my 7 years at HGS. The trip was to a theatre in Doncaste (Lyceum?) with Mr Collette. It was related to English Literature O level and would have been in about 1959. We think it was Richard III. It was exciting to be able to go there and very enjoyable. At that time, most subjects were very book-oriented. Our satchels just got heavier as time went on and we tended to lean over to the satchel side. The text books contained the required knowledge and I never considered that they may be out of date. We had to sign the piece of paper inside the front cover and try to return the book, when required, in the same condition as it was when we were given it for our work.
Dave
Dave
Comment
Tony Senior
I certainly went on at least one Geography Field Study trip with Mr Minards and Kath Ward around that time. One was based in Llandudno and the other on the east coast in Scarborough. I recall that Mr Collette’s son joined us on one occasion. He taught somewhere else but came along as one of the teaching staff. I’m struggling to remember his first name. Can anyone else remember?
I certainly went on at least one Geography Field Study trip with Mr Minards and Kath Ward around that time. One was based in Llandudno and the other on the east coast in Scarborough. I recall that Mr Collette’s son joined us on one occasion. He taught somewhere else but came along as one of the teaching staff. I’m struggling to remember his first name. Can anyone else remember?
Tony Senior
I think Mr Collette's son was called Peter.
Dave
Dave
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Barbara Collette
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Peter Collette
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Mr L.N. Collette
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The HGS Geography Staff of the 1940s and 1950s
Mr W.J. Leonard, Miss N. Harris (centre) and Miss K. Ward
They are pictured on a Field Trip in the Malham area in 1954. At HGS they taught School Certificate Geography and then O and A Level.
They are pictured on a Field Trip in the Malham area in 1954. At HGS they taught School Certificate Geography and then O and A Level.
I worked with Miss Ward, in the same Geography Department, from 1969 to 1984 when she retired. She always insisted on doing the "hard yards", as implied in the photo below, when leading her group in the outdoors. As many of you will know, she had her own classroom style which used the Mapograph and annotated sketch maps especially in Regional Geography. We went on many Field Trips together in Wales and Northern England, and she really took to the microphone on the buses/minibuses en route to the various location. Her depth of knowledge was quite amazing and she could seamlessly bring in Geological, Historical and Religious information where it was needed to "complete the picture".
Dave
Dave
The Sixth Form A level Group went to Malham in 1961.
This was a popular location for Biology and Geography examination Groups.
This was a popular location for Biology and Geography examination Groups.
Malham Tarn Field Centre 29/03/61
L-R: Michael Cuthbert, Jacqueline Leonard, John Morrissey, Miss. Ward, Norman Hughes, Geoffrey Allen, Roger Toft
L-R: Michael Cuthbert, Jacqueline Leonard, John Morrissey, Miss. Ward, Norman Hughes, Geoffrey Allen, Roger Toft
On Wednesday, 29th March 1961, the Upper Sixth Geography group, accompanied by Miss Ward, travelled to Malham Tarn Field Centre in N. Yorkshire to spend a week there in studying the geography of the Craven limestone district, along with about forty other sixth form, students from a variety of schools as far a field as Kent and Devon. Apart from the wind and rain, and by no means the least of our troubles, the snow, we spent an extremely pleasant and informative week. No-one, I am happy to report, sustained any serious injury. Miss Ward, however, made a very brave figure as she courageously, albeit somewhat moistly, struggled up Gordale waterfall, amidst cheers of encouragement which re-echoed down the length of the gorge. Perhaps the only other incident of note was Easter Sunday’s escapade in Attermire Cave, but from modesty our reporter will not pursue this subject further. In small groups of 4 or 5, we were sent out unaccompanied and unsupervised on Tuesday, in the teeth of a raging blizzard, I might add, to study various geographical problems. The resulting reports which were delivered to the rest of the students and the instructors in the evening were both humorous and instructive. Have you ever tried studying soil creep down mountain slopes in 4 inches of snow?
Geoffrey Allen
Geoffrey Allen
Geoffrey Allen
There were some optional extra-curricular visits which were broadly related to the required school work. One such visit from 1956 is described below. Others may be found on this website e.g. in the Drama Section.
Joan Martin
1956
The Stratford Theatre Party, August 1956
Various methods were used to convey the party of fifteen to Stratford-on-Avon last summer, but despite the fact that one member was considered to have "eloped" or "emigrated" on the way, everybody finally arrived in time for lunch. The week began well with an excellent performance of "Othello" on the first night. The inconsistency of the weather, the frequent soakings (both in and out of the Avon), even the fact that the "pleasure" camp looked like a mud flat failed to quell any spirits. We were fortunate in seeing a cycle of fine plays at the Memorial Theatre: "Othello", "Love's Labours Lost", Merchant of Venice", "Hamlet", and "Measure for Measure", and the acting of such personalities as Emlyn Williams, Alan Badel, Harry Andrews, Basil Heskins, Margaret Johnston and Janette Sterke, was at its best. Another highlight of the week was the very fine display of Roumanian Morris dancing performed by a visiting professional troupe, and if certain members were seen stamping their way back to camp, it was due to Roumanian influence.
Warwick itself was thoroughly explored, the castle especially proving of great interest, and the surrounding villages of the Cotswolds were visited, besides the usual places like Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway's cottage. Rowing on the river, despite soakings from the rain and the "oarsmen" proved a popular pastime - even the breaking of a punt-pole could not deter the would-be punters.
On behalf of the party, I would like to extend grateful thanks to Mr. Walker who made the holiday possible; to Mr. Johnston who was in charge of the party, and to Misses Ward and Hampshire who kept a maternal eye on us. Due acknowledgement must also be paid to Miss Ward's car, which, we hope, is still in running order!
Joan Martin, U6A Holgate
The Stratford Theatre Party, August 1956
Various methods were used to convey the party of fifteen to Stratford-on-Avon last summer, but despite the fact that one member was considered to have "eloped" or "emigrated" on the way, everybody finally arrived in time for lunch. The week began well with an excellent performance of "Othello" on the first night. The inconsistency of the weather, the frequent soakings (both in and out of the Avon), even the fact that the "pleasure" camp looked like a mud flat failed to quell any spirits. We were fortunate in seeing a cycle of fine plays at the Memorial Theatre: "Othello", "Love's Labours Lost", Merchant of Venice", "Hamlet", and "Measure for Measure", and the acting of such personalities as Emlyn Williams, Alan Badel, Harry Andrews, Basil Heskins, Margaret Johnston and Janette Sterke, was at its best. Another highlight of the week was the very fine display of Roumanian Morris dancing performed by a visiting professional troupe, and if certain members were seen stamping their way back to camp, it was due to Roumanian influence.
Warwick itself was thoroughly explored, the castle especially proving of great interest, and the surrounding villages of the Cotswolds were visited, besides the usual places like Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway's cottage. Rowing on the river, despite soakings from the rain and the "oarsmen" proved a popular pastime - even the breaking of a punt-pole could not deter the would-be punters.
On behalf of the party, I would like to extend grateful thanks to Mr. Walker who made the holiday possible; to Mr. Johnston who was in charge of the party, and to Misses Ward and Hampshire who kept a maternal eye on us. Due acknowledgement must also be paid to Miss Ward's car, which, we hope, is still in running order!
Joan Martin, U6A Holgate
Biology Fieldwork 1955
Biology Field Trip to Malham Tarn Field Centre where Senior Biology and Geography pupils spent a week, along with other Schools.
The teacher is Pat Kilner.
The teacher is Pat Kilner.
L-R: Brian Toulson, Alec Wall, Miss. Pat Kilner, Howard Peel.
Mr Sale
I remember well taking a group of about ten sixth formers to study Fresh Water Biology at Malham Tarn. We were beside the tarn when a pair of courting Great Crested Grebes was occupied in the courting activity. I motioned to the group to sit down at the edge of the tarn and watch these activities, head bobbing, swimming around each other in circles, the male diving and bringing up weed to proffer to the female for nest building. They repeated their activities for a long time and kept them all spellbound whilst we ate our lunch. The value of the experience was not only the exercise of surveying the stream and lake beaches and shallow wave washed boulders; it was the sheer delight in watching one of nature's wonders happening before our very eyes. It was real Biology in front of us and prompted someone to ask, "Why all the elaborate design in the courtship behaviours?". So we were able to discuss the nature of species recognition, bonding, care of the female and so on. It was a truly staggering opportunity to discuss the ways that birds look after each other for the sake of survival. When we visited Malham Cove and Gordale Scar and looked at other topics, the sheer beauty of the place hit the groups. They perhaps understood my fascination with the flora of the limestone pavements and in particular why I thought that Stream Biology was fascinating.
Ken Sale, HGS Staff 1955-61
Ken Sale, HGS Staff 1955-61
Comment
Terry McCroakam, HGS Head Boy 1956-57, HGS Staff 1965 onwards
Those articles bring back happy memories of the people involved and HGS itself. The photos of former colleagues say everything.
Those articles bring back happy memories of the people involved and HGS itself. The photos of former colleagues say everything.
2. Nostalgic for a moment
HGS 1st XV versus Rothwell Grammar School
Season 1960-61. Home fixture.
This was on the HGS 1st XV pitch.
This prime recreational area was dug up later in the Sixties (1967-68) to build the HHS Sports Hall.
Season 1960-61. Home fixture.
This was on the HGS 1st XV pitch.
This prime recreational area was dug up later in the Sixties (1967-68) to build the HHS Sports Hall.
From the match
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The photographs were taken by Mr Reed (HGS English)
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Left
Here is Dave Hinks (HGS Head Boy 1960-61) securing the ball in defence. |
Right
Here are Dave McKenzie (left) and Dave Hinks (with scrum cap) getting HGS into position for an HGS attack. |
I was playing in that game as a Lower Sixth 16 year old. Arthur Newton is also in shot by the try line. Gerald Ackroyd is in the lineout. Those Saturday morning fixtures were very serious affairs. We trained hard and played even harder. They really were Happy Days for the HGS Rugby players who are reading this. Up early and catch the No. 79 bus from Upton to Hemsworth - always slightly nervous which was not a bad thing as over-confidence could not develop. Taking on the best players from other Grammar Schools should give you at least a few butterflies and bring on the adrenaline. After the matches we would gather in the Dining Room and have lovely sandwiches (potted meat), tea or pop and sometimes even plain crisps with the little blue bag inside. Both teams would mix and talk about the game especially if it had been a close result.
Dave
Dave
Back Row L-R: Brian Pawson, Gerald Ackroyd, David Worgan, David Hinks, John Colley
Middle Row L-R: Arthur Newton, Mr. Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Booth, Rodney Jennings
Front Row L-R: Geoffrey Allen, David Sugden, Jeffrey Adamson, Michael Cuthbert, Maurice Randall, Leonard Linsey, David
McKenzie
Seated L-R: Albert Parkin, Richard Bateman
Middle Row L-R: Arthur Newton, Mr. Tate, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Booth, Rodney Jennings
Front Row L-R: Geoffrey Allen, David Sugden, Jeffrey Adamson, Michael Cuthbert, Maurice Randall, Leonard Linsey, David
McKenzie
Seated L-R: Albert Parkin, Richard Bateman
The First XV this year won eleven, drew two and lost three out of a total of sixteen matches. This is an admirable record, especially when we consider the mitigating factors of fielding much eakened sides because of injury, at Silcoates and Thorne, and in our other defeat at Wath, where we played for most of the game with hirteen men. An outstanding feature of this year's team has been that it was composed of players with relatively little experience of senior ugby (there were no Colours from last year and only four players had a first team season behind them). Indeed, had there not been so many unfortunate injuries, and not so many of last year's teams been so successful in the academic field, and had there not been so many premature leavers, the mind boggles to think what the record of this year's team would have been. As it was, hard training a fine team spirit, and the many hours devoted by Mr. Tate, Mr. Booth and Mr. Whittaker in coaching the team produced a worthy record, though not as outstanding as that of three seasons ago.
In the actual team itself special mention should be made in the back division, of Albert Parkin, whose deceptive "dummy" and fine bursts of speed brought many tries; and of the excellence of David Sugden at full back, who in his first season in senior rugby obtained reserve position in the Yorkshire County side. No player in the forwards can be singled out, for all played well and as a group, not as individuals. The front row foraged well and always gave good scrum possession, the second row were outstanding in line-out work, while the very mobile back row covered excellently and scored many tries with efficient and speedy backing-up. It was very fitting then that five forwards; Ackroyd, Adamson (Pack Leader), Hinks, Randall (Vice-Captain) and Worgan gained their Colours, while Cuthbert and Parkin were awarded Colours in the backs.
In summing up, it can be said that if such fine team spirit pervades, and such hard training is as consistent next season as this, then the senior rugby in School will be left in very capable hands.
Michael Cuthbert (Captain)
In the actual team itself special mention should be made in the back division, of Albert Parkin, whose deceptive "dummy" and fine bursts of speed brought many tries; and of the excellence of David Sugden at full back, who in his first season in senior rugby obtained reserve position in the Yorkshire County side. No player in the forwards can be singled out, for all played well and as a group, not as individuals. The front row foraged well and always gave good scrum possession, the second row were outstanding in line-out work, while the very mobile back row covered excellently and scored many tries with efficient and speedy backing-up. It was very fitting then that five forwards; Ackroyd, Adamson (Pack Leader), Hinks, Randall (Vice-Captain) and Worgan gained their Colours, while Cuthbert and Parkin were awarded Colours in the backs.
In summing up, it can be said that if such fine team spirit pervades, and such hard training is as consistent next season as this, then the senior rugby in School will be left in very capable hands.
Michael Cuthbert (Captain)
3. Character
To be developed
To be developed
We all get thoughts about what to do next. Mr. Hamilton must have faced many difficult moments in his career as Headmaster. He was not a quitter, quite the opposite. Planning his team's next move against the School's First XI would have been very important indeed. I wonder if the Staff won in 1966 and 1967?
As an aside, RWH read out all the School's Sports Results in Monday's Assembly - "warts and all". What he did not like was a heavy defeat either way. He much preferred good, hard, close games which were true tests of character in all the Sports played at HGS. When he was on the touchline, didn't we all play that bit harder? I know I certainly did!
Dave
As an aside, RWH read out all the School's Sports Results in Monday's Assembly - "warts and all". What he did not like was a heavy defeat either way. He much preferred good, hard, close games which were true tests of character in all the Sports played at HGS. When he was on the touchline, didn't we all play that bit harder? I know I certainly did!
Dave
HGS First XI Cricket 1966
Back Row L-R: Mr. Glenn, Terry Mills, Keith Shelley, Mr. Hamilton, Philip Smith, Ian Lewins, Mr. Morley
Front Row L-R: Peter Hryschko, Alan Marshall, Neil Stones, David Biggs, David Gainey, Tony Horsfall, Geoff Peckett
Front Row L-R: Peter Hryschko, Alan Marshall, Neil Stones, David Biggs, David Gainey, Tony Horsfall, Geoff Peckett
Team: First XI: Played 7, Won 1, Lost 4, Drawn 2
The first eleven has had a very disappointing season to say the least. So far, only one match has been won, and that not very convincingly. The season's best performance was undoubtedly the match against Thorne Grammar School, in which the school held the upper hand throughout, although Thorne managed to bat out time, the match ending in a draw. Poor fielding on Hemsworth's part, rather than the opposing team's overall superiority has been the reason for Hemsworth's repeated failure.
Derek Cope, L.VI.S.
The first eleven has had a very disappointing season to say the least. So far, only one match has been won, and that not very convincingly. The season's best performance was undoubtedly the match against Thorne Grammar School, in which the school held the upper hand throughout, although Thorne managed to bat out time, the match ending in a draw. Poor fielding on Hemsworth's part, rather than the opposing team's overall superiority has been the reason for Hemsworth's repeated failure.
Derek Cope, L.VI.S.
HGS First XI Cricket 1967
Back Row L-R: Mr. Morley, Terry Mills, Tony Horsfall, Mr. Hamilton, Geoff Peckett, Brian Lee, Mr Glenn
Front Row L-R: Brian Evans, Bill Cooper, Dave Malkin, Peter Hryschko, Peter Hodgson, John Nock, Kenny Bates
Front Row L-R: Brian Evans, Bill Cooper, Dave Malkin, Peter Hryschko, Peter Hodgson, John Nock, Kenny Bates
The First XI has had a mixed season, winning two and losing three of its matches with one match outstanding. We lost to Percy
Jackson G.S. by 80 runs, to Barnsley by one wicket and to Castleford by two wickets. Our best performances were against
Mexborough whom we beat by four wickets, and against Dinnington, a match we won by 49 runs. We thank Mr. Glenn for giving
up so much time to look after us and to coach us.
Hryschko, P., L6A
Jackson G.S. by 80 runs, to Barnsley by one wicket and to Castleford by two wickets. Our best performances were against
Mexborough whom we beat by four wickets, and against Dinnington, a match we won by 49 runs. We thank Mr. Glenn for giving
up so much time to look after us and to coach us.
Hryschko, P., L6A
4. The Top Corridor
The text of this article originally appeared in the Forum.
Under construction.
The text of this article originally appeared in the Forum.
Under construction.
The above photograph shows the HGS site around 1950.
The Top Corridor is the linear block of three classrooms towards the top of the photograph between the Quadrangle and the Dell .
The Top Corridor is the linear block of three classrooms towards the top of the photograph between the Quadrangle and the Dell .
This article comes from Sheila.
If one walked along the corridor alongside the Hall, heading away from the girls’ cloakrooms with the ‘quad’ on the right, the Domestic Science Room of Miss Metcalfe was the first classroom on the left as one turned the corner to the right. There always seemed to be a smell of baking coming from there, as I think that apart from the cookery lessons, cakes and buns were made for the Staff meetings sometimes. Quite a few cookers, sinks and large tables with integral equipment cupboards meant that on ‘Cookery’ days one just had to remember to bring the required ingredients from home. In our 1st and 2nd years the girls made cookery aprons in Needlework, and then wore them for Cookery. We made Raspberry buns and Rock cakes, and one day we had a visit from a demonstrator who showed us how to operate the newest thing - an electric food blender. We were all amazed that she put the whole egg into the mix, without removing its shell, but were reassured that it was the correct way to do it (- not!)
The next classroom along was a Science room in 1955-57. Benches and bunsens, and Mr Farrar showing us how to make an experiment to prove that tap water was impure. We labelled ‘retort’, ‘tripod’ and ‘evaporating dish’. Much later the room was converted to a classroom/lunchtime Common Room - was it for the Lower Sixth?
The third and last room along that corridor was the Music Room, containing a Steinway and a storeroom in which sheet music, instruments and exercise books were kept. Most of the choir practices were held here, the Main Choir, the Madrigal choir, the Male Voice choir, the Junior choir and the Orchestra rehearsals all rang out, encouraged by Mr Boyd and later Miss Evans.
I have a vague memory of these three rooms each having French Windows on the opposite side of the room from their corridor entrance doors. These windows overlooked the Dell, which incidentally might have provided the stone for the original house. In our day it resembled a landscape gardener’s idea of a Garden Feature very popular around the early 1900’s. It was carefully contrived to appear naturalistic. Snowdrops, ferns and shade-loving shrubs were planted against a backdrop of dark stones, and contrasted against the green of the sloping lawn leading down to it. I don’t think I ever saw anyone down in the Dell during the whole of my seven years at HGS, but the fact that we were not given open access to this area meant that it survived for the future, and there was no resentment at our exclusion. Children’s trampling feet had acres of other space to explore.
Sheila
If one walked along the corridor alongside the Hall, heading away from the girls’ cloakrooms with the ‘quad’ on the right, the Domestic Science Room of Miss Metcalfe was the first classroom on the left as one turned the corner to the right. There always seemed to be a smell of baking coming from there, as I think that apart from the cookery lessons, cakes and buns were made for the Staff meetings sometimes. Quite a few cookers, sinks and large tables with integral equipment cupboards meant that on ‘Cookery’ days one just had to remember to bring the required ingredients from home. In our 1st and 2nd years the girls made cookery aprons in Needlework, and then wore them for Cookery. We made Raspberry buns and Rock cakes, and one day we had a visit from a demonstrator who showed us how to operate the newest thing - an electric food blender. We were all amazed that she put the whole egg into the mix, without removing its shell, but were reassured that it was the correct way to do it (- not!)
The next classroom along was a Science room in 1955-57. Benches and bunsens, and Mr Farrar showing us how to make an experiment to prove that tap water was impure. We labelled ‘retort’, ‘tripod’ and ‘evaporating dish’. Much later the room was converted to a classroom/lunchtime Common Room - was it for the Lower Sixth?
The third and last room along that corridor was the Music Room, containing a Steinway and a storeroom in which sheet music, instruments and exercise books were kept. Most of the choir practices were held here, the Main Choir, the Madrigal choir, the Male Voice choir, the Junior choir and the Orchestra rehearsals all rang out, encouraged by Mr Boyd and later Miss Evans.
I have a vague memory of these three rooms each having French Windows on the opposite side of the room from their corridor entrance doors. These windows overlooked the Dell, which incidentally might have provided the stone for the original house. In our day it resembled a landscape gardener’s idea of a Garden Feature very popular around the early 1900’s. It was carefully contrived to appear naturalistic. Snowdrops, ferns and shade-loving shrubs were planted against a backdrop of dark stones, and contrasted against the green of the sloping lawn leading down to it. I don’t think I ever saw anyone down in the Dell during the whole of my seven years at HGS, but the fact that we were not given open access to this area meant that it survived for the future, and there was no resentment at our exclusion. Children’s trampling feet had acres of other space to explore.
Sheila
Miss Metcalfe
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Mr Farrar
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Mr Boyd
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Miss Evans
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Above and below: The original three classrooms block of the Top Corridor.
Above: with the Dell in the Foreground.
Above: with the Dell in the Foreground.
Comments
Margaret Alison Croucher
I remember one of the diversions when you had a lesson in the Music Room or the one between it and the Domestic Science Room (it wasn't a Science Room in my time, but a sort of adjunct Music Room) was watching Mr. Hamilton's mother trip back to the Headmaster's house. I always assumed she knew Mrs. Wyatt and her sister at Hall Farm Cottage and had been visiting them, but who knows?
I remember one of the diversions when you had a lesson in the Music Room or the one between it and the Domestic Science Room (it wasn't a Science Room in my time, but a sort of adjunct Music Room) was watching Mr. Hamilton's mother trip back to the Headmaster's house. I always assumed she knew Mrs. Wyatt and her sister at Hall Farm Cottage and had been visiting them, but who knows?
Sue Watkins
I still make a fatless sponge cream cake from the recipe we made in class with Miss Metcalfe the domestic science teacher.
I still make a fatless sponge cream cake from the recipe we made in class with Miss Metcalfe the domestic science teacher.
Ruth Alderson
I remember being allowed in 'the dell' after exams in the 6th form when we were still required to be in school - unlike later years.
I remember being allowed in 'the dell' after exams in the 6th form when we were still required to be in school - unlike later years.
5. Six HGS facts from Terry
1. The First Speech Day of HGS was held at the Hippodrome, Hemsworth on November 29th 1922.
2. In Sept 1958 the first form was renamed from 1a, b, c, d, etc to Celts, Romans, Danes and Normans.
3. In Sept 1960 The Friday Club was established from an amalgamation of the Historical Society, The Literary and Debating Society and the Student Christian Movement.
4. Mr Hamilton retired Dec. 1967
5. For many years a two-year course of Esperanto was on the timetable for every pupil at HGS. On the removal of Esperanto from the curriculum in 1959, on the 21st January 1960 the Esperanto club was re-formed. Esperanto was taught by Mr. Lock and Mr. R.W. Hamilton. Mr. Davies and Mr. Jakes helped with the Society.
6. RWH was still playing cricket Friday evenings with the Staff and Saturday and Sunday afternoons with the Old Hilmians right up to his retirement at 65. He was doing his share of bowling as well.
Terry McCroakam
The text of this article also appears elsewhere on this website.
2. In Sept 1958 the first form was renamed from 1a, b, c, d, etc to Celts, Romans, Danes and Normans.
3. In Sept 1960 The Friday Club was established from an amalgamation of the Historical Society, The Literary and Debating Society and the Student Christian Movement.
4. Mr Hamilton retired Dec. 1967
5. For many years a two-year course of Esperanto was on the timetable for every pupil at HGS. On the removal of Esperanto from the curriculum in 1959, on the 21st January 1960 the Esperanto club was re-formed. Esperanto was taught by Mr. Lock and Mr. R.W. Hamilton. Mr. Davies and Mr. Jakes helped with the Society.
6. RWH was still playing cricket Friday evenings with the Staff and Saturday and Sunday afternoons with the Old Hilmians right up to his retirement at 65. He was doing his share of bowling as well.
Terry McCroakam
The text of this article also appears elsewhere on this website.
Melvyn Thomas
Great snippets from the history of HGS, oddly I took Esperanto in my final years. I recollect going to Sheffield University tower, one evening. Since leaving I’ve met only one Esperantist, in Falun, in Sweden, whilst I was installing and commissioning some machinery.
Esperanto was a good idea superseded by the use of English.
Great snippets from the history of HGS, oddly I took Esperanto in my final years. I recollect going to Sheffield University tower, one evening. Since leaving I’ve met only one Esperantist, in Falun, in Sweden, whilst I was installing and commissioning some machinery.
Esperanto was a good idea superseded by the use of English.
Peter Cooper
I had the pleasure of playing with the Boss and Terry for the Hilmians. He always threw the ball underarm even from the boundary. Remarkable!!
Terry McCroakam
Happy times with the Hilmians, Peter. We had a reasonably good team playing Saturday and Sunday on some weekends.
I had the pleasure of playing with the Boss and Terry for the Hilmians. He always threw the ball underarm even from the boundary. Remarkable!!
Terry McCroakam
Happy times with the Hilmians, Peter. We had a reasonably good team playing Saturday and Sunday on some weekends.
6. Formal Times and a rigid system
The HGS House System was a large and significant element within the "overall system of activities" within everyday school life. It was not separate from the academic or pastoral work of the school, but an important part of them both. On entry to the school, pupils and the teaching staff were assigned to a House. Normally they remained in that House until they left HGS. This is shown and explained below.
A Case Study: House Assemblies
Every week during term-time (Tuesdays rings a bell for Holgate), each House met to have prayers. The House Captain, Vice-captain and the House Teacher sat at the front, and led the proceedings which for us were held in the classroom which had its doorway opposite the Boss' study. After there were prayers, and maybe some singing? The occasion was used to give out notice of future House Competitions, or the results of the same. Music and Drama Competitions, Relays, Netball and Hockey all involved the choices of House teams and strategies. The collection of the charity money for the Save the Children Fund was a constan theme. An element of competition existed between the Houses, to the benefit of the funds collected. I don't recall any boys being present, so maybe they had a meeting elsewhere, and sexes were separated for this short interlude. Miss Ward was our House Teacher for the seven years I was at HGS, and each year she made an entry in the back of our Report Books listing our specific House involvements.
Sheila
Every week during term-time (Tuesdays rings a bell for Holgate), each House met to have prayers. The House Captain, Vice-captain and the House Teacher sat at the front, and led the proceedings which for us were held in the classroom which had its doorway opposite the Boss' study. After there were prayers, and maybe some singing? The occasion was used to give out notice of future House Competitions, or the results of the same. Music and Drama Competitions, Relays, Netball and Hockey all involved the choices of House teams and strategies. The collection of the charity money for the Save the Children Fund was a constan theme. An element of competition existed between the Houses, to the benefit of the funds collected. I don't recall any boys being present, so maybe they had a meeting elsewhere, and sexes were separated for this short interlude. Miss Ward was our House Teacher for the seven years I was at HGS, and each year she made an entry in the back of our Report Books listing our specific House involvements.
Sheila
House Competition Elements from 1929
There were many other activities in the overall House Competitions. These are described in several parts of this website, particularly the History and Sport sections.
There were many other activities in the overall House Competitions. These are described in several parts of this website, particularly the History and Sport sections.
1955
An example of Notes from the House Captains
An example of Notes from the House Captains
Guest
On the whole it has not been a very successful year. Last year, we won the Rugby cup, the Arts Cup and the Cross-Country Cup, and, this year, we obtained first place in the Dramatic Competition. Congratulations to all concerned. On the academic side of school life, it can be seen quite clearly that more and more stripes are appearing on the Guest list, and the sinners must decide immediately to "put on the brakes". To achieve further success, both in school and on the sports field, we must all put our backs into the activities of the next school year with even more zest.
Yvonne Harris L6A, Walter Hebden L6A
On the whole it has not been a very successful year. Last year, we won the Rugby cup, the Arts Cup and the Cross-Country Cup, and, this year, we obtained first place in the Dramatic Competition. Congratulations to all concerned. On the academic side of school life, it can be seen quite clearly that more and more stripes are appearing on the Guest list, and the sinners must decide immediately to "put on the brakes". To achieve further success, both in school and on the sports field, we must all put our backs into the activities of the next school year with even more zest.
Yvonne Harris L6A, Walter Hebden L6A
Yvonne Harris
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Walter Hebden
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Holgate
There has been little change in Holgate's progress on the sports field. However, the House as a whole seems to be improving intellectually, insomuch as we have achieved first position in the Stars and Stripes and second in the Terminal Orders. As stated, conditions on the sports field are much the same as last year. We were third in Cricket and the Cross-country, and fourth in Swimming and Sports. Indeed, the only successes were gained by the girls who were first in Tennis and second in Rounders. Perhaps this apparent superiority of the girls is due to the small number of senior boys in the House, which has had a very marked effect in all sporting events. We were third in the Dramatic Competition this year which is a deterioration from our usual standards, but we were second in Hockey and Netball. It is our sincere wish that Holgate will achieve the position that its enthusiasm merits.
Josephine Wilkinson U6S, Peter Donaldson L6S
There has been little change in Holgate's progress on the sports field. However, the House as a whole seems to be improving intellectually, insomuch as we have achieved first position in the Stars and Stripes and second in the Terminal Orders. As stated, conditions on the sports field are much the same as last year. We were third in Cricket and the Cross-country, and fourth in Swimming and Sports. Indeed, the only successes were gained by the girls who were first in Tennis and second in Rounders. Perhaps this apparent superiority of the girls is due to the small number of senior boys in the House, which has had a very marked effect in all sporting events. We were third in the Dramatic Competition this year which is a deterioration from our usual standards, but we were second in Hockey and Netball. It is our sincere wish that Holgate will achieve the position that its enthusiasm merits.
Josephine Wilkinson U6S, Peter Donaldson L6S
Josephine Wilkinson
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Peter Donaldson
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Price
On Speech Day, Price House was presented with the Challenge Cup for Swimming, Rounders, Sports and Hockey. These, together with other 'firsts' in Fives, points for colours, exam. results, magazine and the Stars and Stripes competition were the result of everyone pulling his weight and doing his best for the House, but there were some disappointing results in some other competitions; namely Cricket, Tennis and the Cross-Country, but, on the whole, the results before and during the Summer term were very pleasing, and Price finished first of the four Houses at the end of the year. Unfortunately, that high standard has not been maintained and Price House was third in the final order at the end of the Autumn Term - this is not good enough! Less Cross-Country 'walkers', and more support and House spirit is needed to put Price house back in its rightful position at the top.
Jean Lumby U6A, Ronald Smethurst U6A
On Speech Day, Price House was presented with the Challenge Cup for Swimming, Rounders, Sports and Hockey. These, together with other 'firsts' in Fives, points for colours, exam. results, magazine and the Stars and Stripes competition were the result of everyone pulling his weight and doing his best for the House, but there were some disappointing results in some other competitions; namely Cricket, Tennis and the Cross-Country, but, on the whole, the results before and during the Summer term were very pleasing, and Price finished first of the four Houses at the end of the year. Unfortunately, that high standard has not been maintained and Price House was third in the final order at the end of the Autumn Term - this is not good enough! Less Cross-Country 'walkers', and more support and House spirit is needed to put Price house back in its rightful position at the top.
Jean Lumby U6A, Ronald Smethurst U6A
Jean Lumby
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Ronald Smethurst
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Talbot
The year 1953-54 was an improvement for Talbot House; we took second place in the House competition. As usual, we seem to have been more successful in outdoor events than in academic fields. In P.T and sports, Talbot House took first position; the boys won the Cricket and the Cross Country Run, and the girls won the Netball Competition. The Dramatic Competition, musical activities, and Stars and Stripes proved to be a letdown, and a greater effort is needed in this direction by all members. Despite last year's successes, this year, Talbot House is only in fourth position, however, and everyone must try to put us nearer the top.
Patricia Harris U6A, William Baxendale. U6A
The year 1953-54 was an improvement for Talbot House; we took second place in the House competition. As usual, we seem to have been more successful in outdoor events than in academic fields. In P.T and sports, Talbot House took first position; the boys won the Cricket and the Cross Country Run, and the girls won the Netball Competition. The Dramatic Competition, musical activities, and Stars and Stripes proved to be a letdown, and a greater effort is needed in this direction by all members. Despite last year's successes, this year, Talbot House is only in fourth position, however, and everyone must try to put us nearer the top.
Patricia Harris U6A, William Baxendale. U6A
Patricia Harris
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William Baxendale
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