Thoughts about HGS 4
6 article
Updated 21.02.2024
6 article
Updated 21.02.2024
By the beech trees of the North Walk at the Annual Cross Country Run
L-R: Therese Gardner, Dianne Sell, Margaret Preece, Jennifer Jones, Marilyn Smith
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Table of contents
1. Marion remembers and electricity 2. What was important in 1930? 3. The HGS Choirs 4. Musical Activities 1964-65 5. The beginning of an HGS Tradition |
6. An email from Linda Collingwood, HGS 1962-69
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1. Marion remembers and electricity
Mr Collette's Form Group in School Year 1925-26
The expressive faces of, probably, a very good group to teach and Mr Collette's purposeful face, smart suit and shiny shoes.
I still remember how he always called me "Mac". Great!
The expressive faces of, probably, a very good group to teach and Mr Collette's purposeful face, smart suit and shiny shoes.
I still remember how he always called me "Mac". Great!
Sadly, we do not know the names of these pupils.
The physical conditions within Hemsworth Secondary School at that time, especially when compared to the schools of today, were quite basic. For most of us, Mr Collette would have been our only link with that period in the History of HGS. Former pupil Marion Finch sent in an account of those times. Here is an extract.
Marion Finch, HSS 1921-25
"There were about 98 pupils when the School opened in 1921. There was no gymnasium and very little apparatus. We had a few balls, bean bags, hoops and skipping ropes. One room was fitted out as a laboratory for chemistry and physics. I remember there were different types of thermometers, bunsen burners, pipettes, test tubes, bell jars and glass tubing. I remember we worked in pairs trying to make a thermometer. My glass tubing always managed to shatter and we chased mercury all along the bench tops. Mr Dickinson was in charge of the laboratory, this made our lessons more tolerable. Altogether, the laboratory was a Heath Robinson affair.
A room upstairs was set aside for PE and country dancing. One day, as we were in the middle of ‘Gathering Peascods’, an urgent knocking could be heard on the door, the floor rocked with our dancing and the messenger said that the ceiling was in danger of collapsing on to the floor below. This put an end to dancing upstairs.
Although this was a mixed school, we girls were kept apart from the boys except in the classrooms. We had our separate entrances, cloakrooms and staircase. We were not allowed to run along the corridors but always to walk in single file, quietly. In the classrooms, the boys always made for the desks furthest away from the windows where it was cold. Our desks were single with a tip up lid and space for storing our books etc. I dread to think what else some of us stored in there."
Marion
The complete account can be found on this website through the Main Menu.
A room upstairs was set aside for PE and country dancing. One day, as we were in the middle of ‘Gathering Peascods’, an urgent knocking could be heard on the door, the floor rocked with our dancing and the messenger said that the ceiling was in danger of collapsing on to the floor below. This put an end to dancing upstairs.
Although this was a mixed school, we girls were kept apart from the boys except in the classrooms. We had our separate entrances, cloakrooms and staircase. We were not allowed to run along the corridors but always to walk in single file, quietly. In the classrooms, the boys always made for the desks furthest away from the windows where it was cold. Our desks were single with a tip up lid and space for storing our books etc. I dread to think what else some of us stored in there."
Marion
The complete account can be found on this website through the Main Menu.
1924 and an example of a basic requirement for the school to advance.
Electricity
There had previously been some discussion about the possibility of establishing the facility in school to show films, but of course the staff were unable to do this because there was no electric power laid on to the buildings. Lighting was by means of the piped gas supply. The County Hall Authorities wrote to the school stating that the statutory rules and orders prohibited the use of any "illuminant" other than electric light for a cinema lantern, and that ruled out the showing of any films in school unless a small dynamo were to be installed. However, when the new extensions to the school were built, (i.e. the Assembly Hall, and classrooms surrounding the Quadrangle) the architect planned to incorporate electricity within them. Mr. Cressey said the Yorkshire Electric Power Company had all the cables placed down in Hemsworth, and it would not be long before the light was "put on". It was resolved to write to the power company asking them for all particulars of their proposed scheme for lighting Hemsworth by electricity, and the possible date of the commencement of electric lighting. This meeting of the Governors took place when all the pupils had gone home after their last day of term, and no doubt the Governors would have ended their deliberations with thoughts turning to their imminent Christmas celebrations.
Sheila
Electricity
There had previously been some discussion about the possibility of establishing the facility in school to show films, but of course the staff were unable to do this because there was no electric power laid on to the buildings. Lighting was by means of the piped gas supply. The County Hall Authorities wrote to the school stating that the statutory rules and orders prohibited the use of any "illuminant" other than electric light for a cinema lantern, and that ruled out the showing of any films in school unless a small dynamo were to be installed. However, when the new extensions to the school were built, (i.e. the Assembly Hall, and classrooms surrounding the Quadrangle) the architect planned to incorporate electricity within them. Mr. Cressey said the Yorkshire Electric Power Company had all the cables placed down in Hemsworth, and it would not be long before the light was "put on". It was resolved to write to the power company asking them for all particulars of their proposed scheme for lighting Hemsworth by electricity, and the possible date of the commencement of electric lighting. This meeting of the Governors took place when all the pupils had gone home after their last day of term, and no doubt the Governors would have ended their deliberations with thoughts turning to their imminent Christmas celebrations.
Sheila
2. What was important in 1930?
The Headmaster's Annual Report from Speech Day 1930
a. The Latecomers
b. The Satisfactory Examination Results
c. A "Splendid Adventure"
d. Homework and Health
e. Military Band Careers
f. The importance of the final year
The Headmaster's Annual Report from Speech Day 1930
a. The Latecomers
b. The Satisfactory Examination Results
c. A "Splendid Adventure"
d. Homework and Health
e. Military Band Careers
f. The importance of the final year
Mr Jenkinson
Headmaster |
Miss Griffiths
Senior Mistress |
a. The Latecomers
The Headmaster's annual report stated that the school now had its highest number of scholars at 409. There were more pupils than previously expected because an unusually large number of fee-paying pupils had enrolled, and there had been seven extra individuals transferred from Central and Elementary schools. He was not convinced of the advisability of transferring children aged 14 or 15 from such schools, as they had learned no Latin nor Science, little or no French, and only elementary Arithmetic. Catching up with their peers in the short time available to them would prove difficult, and the benefits they would derive from a Secondary School education would be open to question. He would be watching the progress of the seven transferred pupils with interest.
The increase in numbers had made the present accommodation uncomfortably, if not dangerously, overcrowded, and it would be a relief to all concerned when the new extension was completed. He was afraid, however, that this would not be for another two years, so that temporary accommodation would have to be provided very soon.
b. The Satisfactory Examination Results
Last July the results were well up to the usual standard. Higher School Certificate - Nine out of 11 candidates passed. School Certificate - Of 54 candidates, 40 obtained School Certificates, and 16 obtained Matriculation. A County Major Scholarship was awarded to George Hunt. Holgate Exhibitions were awarded to Violet Dodds and J. Richards. Arthur Thorpe was awarded one of the ten scholarships given by the Miners' Welfare Committee. J. A. Leslie Jago, a former pupil of the school, had been awarded, as the result of examination, a West Riding Art Scholarship, which enabled him to pursue a four year course at the Leeds School of Art, with a view to becoming an Art teacher. R. N. Slatcher obtained the R.S.A. silver medal for the first place in all England, in the examination for Advanced Accountancy - a splendid performance. In the R.S.A. examination 9 out of 12 candidates obtained certificates in book-keeping, and two out of three in shorthand. There were 13 former members of the school at the Universities.
c. A "Splendid Adventure"
During the year ended July 1930, 49 girls and boys left the school, and 102 new pupils were admitted in September. Of those who left in July, four had proceeded to Universities, and 14 were either at training colleges or engaged in teaching, 10 had been transferred to other schools, 12 had become clerks, apprentices or shop assistants, one girl was training as a nursery nurse, five girls were at home, and two boys were definitely seeking employment.
Few of those who left the school in July were without some kind of occupation, but it was increasingly difficult for the average girl or boy to find employment with good prospects in Britain, and that was why the Headmaster was encouraging boys to embark on the splendid adventure of overseas enterprise. He particularly welcomed there that day the presence of Lord Middleton, who, by his personal interest and active co-operation, was doing much to foster and strengthen this great imperial movement. "We have three boys in Canada at present," he added, "from all of whom I have had cheery and contented letters, and I hope that another one at least will be going next spring." He continued that most people were unaware how seriously the movement of population from this country to the Dominions overseas had been checked by the war and other causes since 1913. Figures recently published had shown that the number of British subjects leaving for overseas countries other than Europe was 242, 000 in 1913, compared with 93,000 in 1929. This meant that, after making allowances for war losses, there were in 1930 roughly 1,600,000 more people in this country than there would have been if the regular movement of population had continued. As the unemployment dole increased, the movement overseas diminished, and it was impossible to resist the conclusion that either the increase of unemployment benefit had discouraged migration, or the spirit of adventure was diminishing. The Headmaster wanted to urge boys to get out of the rut, and on to the open road.
d. Homework and Health
The Headmaster had seen letters in the press, many of them from doctors, claiming that homework in their opinion had a harmful effect on the health of many girls. He had personally been told by a doctor that he had seen every ounce of strength taken out of girls in the upper Forms of many Girls' schools, with who could say what result in later life. Mr. Jenkinson laid the blame for this situation firmly at the door of the examining bodies, who demanded too much. Also culpable were the school authorities who have to satisfy those demands, and parents who allow their children to work too long at home. He believed that a certain amount of homework was useful because it demanded initiative in the pupil, but it was the duty of parents to watch for the signs of over-pressure at home, and not allow their children to spend more than the stipulated time set for homework. As long as examinations had to be passed and examining bodies insisted on so wide a course, homework was indispensable in the higher forms, merely to cover the syllabus in the time. In the lower forms the case was different, and he had tried to keep the time allotted for homework to a minimum. The ideal system was doubtless for preparation to be done in school under supervision, but as Hemsworth Secondary School was a day school where pupils travelled long distances, that system was impractical.
The Headmaster's annual report stated that the school now had its highest number of scholars at 409. There were more pupils than previously expected because an unusually large number of fee-paying pupils had enrolled, and there had been seven extra individuals transferred from Central and Elementary schools. He was not convinced of the advisability of transferring children aged 14 or 15 from such schools, as they had learned no Latin nor Science, little or no French, and only elementary Arithmetic. Catching up with their peers in the short time available to them would prove difficult, and the benefits they would derive from a Secondary School education would be open to question. He would be watching the progress of the seven transferred pupils with interest.
The increase in numbers had made the present accommodation uncomfortably, if not dangerously, overcrowded, and it would be a relief to all concerned when the new extension was completed. He was afraid, however, that this would not be for another two years, so that temporary accommodation would have to be provided very soon.
b. The Satisfactory Examination Results
Last July the results were well up to the usual standard. Higher School Certificate - Nine out of 11 candidates passed. School Certificate - Of 54 candidates, 40 obtained School Certificates, and 16 obtained Matriculation. A County Major Scholarship was awarded to George Hunt. Holgate Exhibitions were awarded to Violet Dodds and J. Richards. Arthur Thorpe was awarded one of the ten scholarships given by the Miners' Welfare Committee. J. A. Leslie Jago, a former pupil of the school, had been awarded, as the result of examination, a West Riding Art Scholarship, which enabled him to pursue a four year course at the Leeds School of Art, with a view to becoming an Art teacher. R. N. Slatcher obtained the R.S.A. silver medal for the first place in all England, in the examination for Advanced Accountancy - a splendid performance. In the R.S.A. examination 9 out of 12 candidates obtained certificates in book-keeping, and two out of three in shorthand. There were 13 former members of the school at the Universities.
c. A "Splendid Adventure"
During the year ended July 1930, 49 girls and boys left the school, and 102 new pupils were admitted in September. Of those who left in July, four had proceeded to Universities, and 14 were either at training colleges or engaged in teaching, 10 had been transferred to other schools, 12 had become clerks, apprentices or shop assistants, one girl was training as a nursery nurse, five girls were at home, and two boys were definitely seeking employment.
Few of those who left the school in July were without some kind of occupation, but it was increasingly difficult for the average girl or boy to find employment with good prospects in Britain, and that was why the Headmaster was encouraging boys to embark on the splendid adventure of overseas enterprise. He particularly welcomed there that day the presence of Lord Middleton, who, by his personal interest and active co-operation, was doing much to foster and strengthen this great imperial movement. "We have three boys in Canada at present," he added, "from all of whom I have had cheery and contented letters, and I hope that another one at least will be going next spring." He continued that most people were unaware how seriously the movement of population from this country to the Dominions overseas had been checked by the war and other causes since 1913. Figures recently published had shown that the number of British subjects leaving for overseas countries other than Europe was 242, 000 in 1913, compared with 93,000 in 1929. This meant that, after making allowances for war losses, there were in 1930 roughly 1,600,000 more people in this country than there would have been if the regular movement of population had continued. As the unemployment dole increased, the movement overseas diminished, and it was impossible to resist the conclusion that either the increase of unemployment benefit had discouraged migration, or the spirit of adventure was diminishing. The Headmaster wanted to urge boys to get out of the rut, and on to the open road.
d. Homework and Health
The Headmaster had seen letters in the press, many of them from doctors, claiming that homework in their opinion had a harmful effect on the health of many girls. He had personally been told by a doctor that he had seen every ounce of strength taken out of girls in the upper Forms of many Girls' schools, with who could say what result in later life. Mr. Jenkinson laid the blame for this situation firmly at the door of the examining bodies, who demanded too much. Also culpable were the school authorities who have to satisfy those demands, and parents who allow their children to work too long at home. He believed that a certain amount of homework was useful because it demanded initiative in the pupil, but it was the duty of parents to watch for the signs of over-pressure at home, and not allow their children to spend more than the stipulated time set for homework. As long as examinations had to be passed and examining bodies insisted on so wide a course, homework was indispensable in the higher forms, merely to cover the syllabus in the time. In the lower forms the case was different, and he had tried to keep the time allotted for homework to a minimum. The ideal system was doubtless for preparation to be done in school under supervision, but as Hemsworth Secondary School was a day school where pupils travelled long distances, that system was impractical.
Comment
Melvyn Thomas
Homework was and is, needed. Today answers can be sought whilst sitting at a computer. No seeking library books on the subject. On the whole I think that putting effort into homework produced a mind that is different from today’s students. Always enquiring about, rather than expecting the answer to appear. Perhaps I’m prejudiced, too set in my ways.
Melvyn Thomas
Homework was and is, needed. Today answers can be sought whilst sitting at a computer. No seeking library books on the subject. On the whole I think that putting effort into homework produced a mind that is different from today’s students. Always enquiring about, rather than expecting the answer to appear. Perhaps I’m prejudiced, too set in my ways.
e. Military Band Careers
In mentioning that he would like to purchase some wind instruments for the school orchestra, Mr. Jenkinson pointed out that a military band offered a good career to a musical boy, and that the County Authority might well consider subsidising this type of activity in schools bearing the career prospects in mind. He knew that military bandmasters welcomed boys from secondary schools - in fact one boy from the school had followed this path and been very successful. Any boy of 16 or 17 who was musical and could play a wind instrument would be encouraged to join a military band, and in 12 years or so he may well be a bandmaster. The playing of wind instruments was too much neglected in schools. The importance of the final year Mr. Jenkinson felt that a boy or girl gained untold advantage by remaining at school to the age of 18 or 19. Those last two years could be worth all the rest put together, because it is then that their minds and characters were broadened, sifted, and strengthened. Some have said that the main value of education lies in the fact that it broadens the mind and builds up the character. He had heard the same thing expressed in a rather different fashion by a speaker who wisely said that both teachers and taught ought to use a secondary school education for learning to look at things from other people's point of view. This principle could be applied to any subject in the curriculum, and was invaluable as a training for life. If teacher and pupil alike could learn to do this, a sense of humour comes into play, interest is aroused, apathy vanishes, and our school motto becomes a reality, because -"work has become its own reward."
f. The importance of the final year
Mr. Jenkinson felt that a boy or girl gained untold advantage by remaining at school to the age of 18 or 19. Those last two years could be worth all the rest put together, because it is then that their minds and characters were broadened, sifted, and strengthened. Some have said that the main value of education lies in the fact that it broadens the mind and builds up the character. He had heard the same thing expressed in a rather different fashion by a speaker who wisely said that both teachers and taught ought to use a secondary school education for learning to look at things from other people's point of view. This principle could be applied to any subject in the curriculum, and was invaluable as a training for life. If teacher and pupil alike could learn to do this, a sense of humour comes into play, interest is aroused, apathy vanishes, and our school motto becomes a reality, because -"work has become its own reward."
Sheila
In mentioning that he would like to purchase some wind instruments for the school orchestra, Mr. Jenkinson pointed out that a military band offered a good career to a musical boy, and that the County Authority might well consider subsidising this type of activity in schools bearing the career prospects in mind. He knew that military bandmasters welcomed boys from secondary schools - in fact one boy from the school had followed this path and been very successful. Any boy of 16 or 17 who was musical and could play a wind instrument would be encouraged to join a military band, and in 12 years or so he may well be a bandmaster. The playing of wind instruments was too much neglected in schools. The importance of the final year Mr. Jenkinson felt that a boy or girl gained untold advantage by remaining at school to the age of 18 or 19. Those last two years could be worth all the rest put together, because it is then that their minds and characters were broadened, sifted, and strengthened. Some have said that the main value of education lies in the fact that it broadens the mind and builds up the character. He had heard the same thing expressed in a rather different fashion by a speaker who wisely said that both teachers and taught ought to use a secondary school education for learning to look at things from other people's point of view. This principle could be applied to any subject in the curriculum, and was invaluable as a training for life. If teacher and pupil alike could learn to do this, a sense of humour comes into play, interest is aroused, apathy vanishes, and our school motto becomes a reality, because -"work has become its own reward."
f. The importance of the final year
Mr. Jenkinson felt that a boy or girl gained untold advantage by remaining at school to the age of 18 or 19. Those last two years could be worth all the rest put together, because it is then that their minds and characters were broadened, sifted, and strengthened. Some have said that the main value of education lies in the fact that it broadens the mind and builds up the character. He had heard the same thing expressed in a rather different fashion by a speaker who wisely said that both teachers and taught ought to use a secondary school education for learning to look at things from other people's point of view. This principle could be applied to any subject in the curriculum, and was invaluable as a training for life. If teacher and pupil alike could learn to do this, a sense of humour comes into play, interest is aroused, apathy vanishes, and our school motto becomes a reality, because -"work has become its own reward."
Sheila
3. The HGS Choirs
A sample year, 1953-54
A sample year, 1953-54
Peter Wall was my Temporary 2A Form Teacher (Summer of 1957)
Dave
HGS Choirs and Music
Isn't it astonishing that a small Grammar School could at one time or another over a school generation (and possibly at the same time, though I cannot be sure of that) have a Girls' Choir, a Boys' Choir, a Male Voice Choir, a Madrigal Choir, a Bach Choir, a Mixed Choir and a School Orchestra, AND organise trips to hear the Halle and The Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra? What a remarkable place HGS was.
Peter Wall (HGS 1947-54)
Dave
HGS Choirs and Music
Isn't it astonishing that a small Grammar School could at one time or another over a school generation (and possibly at the same time, though I cannot be sure of that) have a Girls' Choir, a Boys' Choir, a Male Voice Choir, a Madrigal Choir, a Bach Choir, a Mixed Choir and a School Orchestra, AND organise trips to hear the Halle and The Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra? What a remarkable place HGS was.
Peter Wall (HGS 1947-54)
Peter Wall
2A 1956-57
This photo was sent in by Janet Marston. Thank you, Janet.
Back Row L-R: Gordon Bond, Robert Taylor, David Hartley, Peter Kaye, Brian Stead, David McKenzie, John Turner
Third Row L-R: Neville Mozley, Edward Pickles, Neil Whalley, Michael Harrison, Frank Picken, Godfrey Wass, Leonard Linsey,
Brian Lees, Louis Taylor
Second Row L-R: Christine Whittaker, Margaret Smith, Sheila Baker, Janet Marston, Brenda Nettleton, Patricia Miles, Patricia Cockburn, Jean Hardcastle, Geraldine Walker, Patricia Whitehall
Front Row L-R: Joan Foster, Barbara Wilby, Margaret Birkin, Doreen Tyrrell, Mr. Wall, Keith Gainey, Albert Parkin, Wray Vamplew, Ray Griffiths
Form Prize was awarded to Wray Vamplew
Back Row L-R: Gordon Bond, Robert Taylor, David Hartley, Peter Kaye, Brian Stead, David McKenzie, John Turner
Third Row L-R: Neville Mozley, Edward Pickles, Neil Whalley, Michael Harrison, Frank Picken, Godfrey Wass, Leonard Linsey,
Brian Lees, Louis Taylor
Second Row L-R: Christine Whittaker, Margaret Smith, Sheila Baker, Janet Marston, Brenda Nettleton, Patricia Miles, Patricia Cockburn, Jean Hardcastle, Geraldine Walker, Patricia Whitehall
Front Row L-R: Joan Foster, Barbara Wilby, Margaret Birkin, Doreen Tyrrell, Mr. Wall, Keith Gainey, Albert Parkin, Wray Vamplew, Ray Griffiths
Form Prize was awarded to Wray Vamplew
Musical Activities 1953-54
The Musical Year began, as usual, with the House Music Competition, in which the winning House was Guest. Together with the School Choirs and Orchestra, the winners of the individual classes performed at the Annual Summer Concert where they met with an appreciative reception. In November the Choirs and Orchestra performed at Speech Day and, as usual, received an enthusiastic hearing. This year, the Madrigal Choir competed at the Harrogate Musical Festival where they came up against the much more experienced choir from Thorne's House, but the adjudicator commented on the youth of our School Choir and suggested that it had a promising future. The Fourth Form girls' choir had more outstanding success at the Pontefract Musical Festival where they won two shields in two very competitive classes. Their marks were 85 in one class and 87 and 89 in the other. The musical excursions, which started last year, were continued and visits were made to The Leeds Triennial Festival and to a Halle Concert at Sheffield. This summer a party hopes to visit the Edinburgh Festival for a week. An encouraging feature of this session, and one which makes a "happy note" upon which to end this report, is the fact that the School Orchestra is again flourishing. It is hoped it will continue to do so.
Peter Wall, U6A
Peter Wall, U6A
School Choir 1953-54
Back Row L-R: Mr. Burnett, Chris Butcher, Brian Ardron, Allec Wall, Trevor Ward
Eighth Row L-R: Jim Ainge, Alan Buckroyd, Peter Wall, Walter Hebden, Don Maltby, Nigel Leary
Seventh Row L-R: Barry Johns, Howard Peel, George Thacker, Hunt B., 5, Frank Warren, Peter Smith
Sixth Row L-R: M. Birkin, S. Cooling, Olwen Carter, Kathleen Corcoran, Elaine Picken, Betty Stacey, Edna. Hardwick, Ann
Bedford, Jennifer Lindley
Fifth Row L-R: C. Walker, Jean Foreman, Maureen Mathers, Judith Rigby, Brenda Pawson, Rhona Tatton, D. Hinchcliffe, Audrey
Bragger, Maureen Cotterill
Fourth Row L-R: Patricia Holliday, Susan Lindley, Margaret Philips, Ann Beaumont, Gloria Farnsworth, Valerie Higham, Gwyneth
Halligan, Marjorie Hawkins
Third Row L-R: Sheila Birks, M. Whittaker, E. Crawshaw, M. Predergast, Kathleen Cooper, Eileen Hirst, Janet Newton, Mary
Draper, M. Horn, Jean Snookes
Second Row L-R: Madelaine Knapton, Wendy Harper, Dorothy Nicholls, Diane Glew, Miss Carter, Valerie Manning, Margaret
Connolly, Joyce Fox, Juliet Parker
Front Row L-R: 1, John Riggott, Tony Foster, Ames A., North B, Bernard Connolly, Johnson W., Anthony Edwards
Eighth Row L-R: Jim Ainge, Alan Buckroyd, Peter Wall, Walter Hebden, Don Maltby, Nigel Leary
Seventh Row L-R: Barry Johns, Howard Peel, George Thacker, Hunt B., 5, Frank Warren, Peter Smith
Sixth Row L-R: M. Birkin, S. Cooling, Olwen Carter, Kathleen Corcoran, Elaine Picken, Betty Stacey, Edna. Hardwick, Ann
Bedford, Jennifer Lindley
Fifth Row L-R: C. Walker, Jean Foreman, Maureen Mathers, Judith Rigby, Brenda Pawson, Rhona Tatton, D. Hinchcliffe, Audrey
Bragger, Maureen Cotterill
Fourth Row L-R: Patricia Holliday, Susan Lindley, Margaret Philips, Ann Beaumont, Gloria Farnsworth, Valerie Higham, Gwyneth
Halligan, Marjorie Hawkins
Third Row L-R: Sheila Birks, M. Whittaker, E. Crawshaw, M. Predergast, Kathleen Cooper, Eileen Hirst, Janet Newton, Mary
Draper, M. Horn, Jean Snookes
Second Row L-R: Madelaine Knapton, Wendy Harper, Dorothy Nicholls, Diane Glew, Miss Carter, Valerie Manning, Margaret
Connolly, Joyce Fox, Juliet Parker
Front Row L-R: 1, John Riggott, Tony Foster, Ames A., North B, Bernard Connolly, Johnson W., Anthony Edwards
Madrigal Choir 1953-54
Back Row L-R: Jim Ainge, Alan Buckroyd, Peter Wall, Brian Ardron, Walter Hebden, Chris Butcher
Third Row L-R: Barry Johns, Howard Peel, Maureen Mathers, Jean Foreman, Judith Rigby, Brenda Pawson, Frank Warren,
George Thacker
Second Row L-R: Olwen Carter, Gwyneth Halligan, Valerie Higham, Ann Bedford, Eileen Hirst, Janet Newton, Mary Draper,
Audrey Bragger, Jean Snookes
Front Row L-R: Madelaine Knapton, Wendy Harper, Rhona Tatton, Marjorie Hawkins, Miss Carter, Valerie Manning, Margaret
Connolly, Joyce Fox, Juliet Parker
Third Row L-R: Barry Johns, Howard Peel, Maureen Mathers, Jean Foreman, Judith Rigby, Brenda Pawson, Frank Warren,
George Thacker
Second Row L-R: Olwen Carter, Gwyneth Halligan, Valerie Higham, Ann Bedford, Eileen Hirst, Janet Newton, Mary Draper,
Audrey Bragger, Jean Snookes
Front Row L-R: Madelaine Knapton, Wendy Harper, Rhona Tatton, Marjorie Hawkins, Miss Carter, Valerie Manning, Margaret
Connolly, Joyce Fox, Juliet Parker
Male Voice Choir 1953-54
Back Row L-R: Alan Buckroyd, Brian Ardron, Trevor Ward, Peter Wall, Walter Hebden.
Middle Row L-R: John Riggott, John Abbott, Nigel Leary, Dawson J. Robert Vickers, John Porter.
Front Row L-R: Howard Peel, Barry John, Geoffrey Graham, Jim Ainge, Mr. Burnett, Christopher Butcher, Don Maltby, GeorgeThacker, Frank Warren.
Middle Row L-R: John Riggott, John Abbott, Nigel Leary, Dawson J. Robert Vickers, John Porter.
Front Row L-R: Howard Peel, Barry John, Geoffrey Graham, Jim Ainge, Mr. Burnett, Christopher Butcher, Don Maltby, GeorgeThacker, Frank Warren.
Fourth Form Girls' Choir 1953-54
Back Row L-R: M. Oates, Adele Whittaker, I. Turner, M. Parkinson, M. Slatford
Fifth Row L-R: M. Birkin, B. Smith, H. Copcutt, Una Rimington, B. Hartley, C. Bexon
Fourth Row L-R: S. Cooling,D. Lockett, J. Crosskill, J. Bradley, M. Hartley, W. Taylor, Enid Horton, E. Horbury, J. Hanks
Third Row L-R: L. Hemingway, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Second Row L-R: C. Seacroft, D. McIntyre, E. Crawshaw, E. Banwell, Jean Nuttall, M. Pearson, D. Brown, Jean Snookes, M. Picken, M. Rushton
Front Row L-R: Olive Carter, Wendy Jennings, D. Nicholls, D. Glew, Mr. Burnett, C. Walker, Brenda Pawson, Elaine Picken, S. Baker
Fifth Row L-R: M. Birkin, B. Smith, H. Copcutt, Una Rimington, B. Hartley, C. Bexon
Fourth Row L-R: S. Cooling,D. Lockett, J. Crosskill, J. Bradley, M. Hartley, W. Taylor, Enid Horton, E. Horbury, J. Hanks
Third Row L-R: L. Hemingway, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Second Row L-R: C. Seacroft, D. McIntyre, E. Crawshaw, E. Banwell, Jean Nuttall, M. Pearson, D. Brown, Jean Snookes, M. Picken, M. Rushton
Front Row L-R: Olive Carter, Wendy Jennings, D. Nicholls, D. Glew, Mr. Burnett, C. Walker, Brenda Pawson, Elaine Picken, S. Baker
These members of Staff were very important to the development and continuity of the choirs at this time.
Miss Carter
Head of Music |
Mr Burnett
Religious Education |
Comment
Linda Bona
When I was there in the 60s we had a Junior Choir, a Senior Choir and a Madrigal Choir!! I was in all of them, and so were several of my friends. I hated Sport but loved Music! Coming from Shafton School, our head was very keen on music so we had a very active choir.
When I was there in the 60s we had a Junior Choir, a Senior Choir and a Madrigal Choir!! I was in all of them, and so were several of my friends. I hated Sport but loved Music! Coming from Shafton School, our head was very keen on music so we had a very active choir.
4. Musical Activities 1964-65
Andrew Hudson
HGS Head Boy 1964-65
HGS Head Boy 1964-65
This has been a disappointing year in some ways, despite great efforts by Miss. Evans and Mr. Cooling. The blame lies almost entirely with the boys, who have given very llttle support to the choirs this year. However, despite the lack of male voices, the choirs are of excellent quality and gave very able performances at Speech Day and at the Concert. The Madrigal Choir is perhaps the strongest that it has ever been and this is in no small way thanks to the six members of staff who prop up the male voice side. The senior girls’ choir has been well supported and one would think that the sight of so many beautiful songstresses would spur on the boys to greater efforts. The Jazz Band has played sporadically this year since its members are involved in G.C.E. We thank Mr. Smith for his guidance and hope that he will have no difficulty in replacing the pianist, trumpeter and drummer when they leave this term. The emergence of a strong violin group and brass group suggests that in the not too distant future the school orchestra might be re-formed. The House music competition was again won by Holgate.
Andrew Hudson U6S
Andrew Hudson U6S
Miss Evans
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Mr Smith
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Mr Cooling
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The Madrigal Choir 1964-65
Back Row L-R: Mr. Baker, Mr. Howdle, Dennis Jordan, Mr. Cooling, Mr. Bavister, Geoff Thompson, Mr. Davies, Andrew Hudson
Second Row L-R: Steve Moody, Susan Ash, Patricia Walton, Christine Kenyon, Pauline Ogley
Front Row L-R: Kathleen Lowe, Janice Hanwell, Gillian Hawcroft, Miss. Evans, Angela Deighton, Patricia Rhodes, Christine
Longfield, Jacqueline Thorley
Second Row L-R: Steve Moody, Susan Ash, Patricia Walton, Christine Kenyon, Pauline Ogley
Front Row L-R: Kathleen Lowe, Janice Hanwell, Gillian Hawcroft, Miss. Evans, Angela Deighton, Patricia Rhodes, Christine
Longfield, Jacqueline Thorley
Senior Girls' Choir 1964-65
Back Row L-R: J. Dymond, Susan Dickinson, Elizabeth Jones, Susan Ash, Susan Bristow, Kathleen Appleton, Patricia Walton, Christine Longfield, Pauline Ogley
Middle Row L-R: M. Walton, Christine Arrowsmith, Kathleen Greasley, Kathleen Lowe, Lynne Jukes, Janice Hanwell, Linda Morrell, Jacqueline Thorley, Christine Kenyon
Front Row L-R: Jennifer Jones, Gillian Hawcroft, P. Hinchcliffe, Jennifer Thorpe, Miss. Evans, Mr. Cooling, J. Carr, Angela Deighton, Kay Styring, Pat Rhodes
Middle Row L-R: M. Walton, Christine Arrowsmith, Kathleen Greasley, Kathleen Lowe, Lynne Jukes, Janice Hanwell, Linda Morrell, Jacqueline Thorley, Christine Kenyon
Front Row L-R: Jennifer Jones, Gillian Hawcroft, P. Hinchcliffe, Jennifer Thorpe, Miss. Evans, Mr. Cooling, J. Carr, Angela Deighton, Kay Styring, Pat Rhodes
The HGS Jazz Band
The photo has been sent in by Reg Bancroft. Thank you.
Standing L-R: Mike Fairclough, John Smith (Biology master), Geoff Thompson, Dick Bateman, Andy Hudson
Seated L-R: Norman Tate, Reg Bancroft
Standing L-R: Mike Fairclough, John Smith (Biology master), Geoff Thompson, Dick Bateman, Andy Hudson
Seated L-R: Norman Tate, Reg Bancroft
Reg Bancroft has added this comment:
“I recently came across this photo of the HGS Jazz Band and thought it might be a useful addition to the excellent website. It was taken in the school music room around 1963. The band formed in 1962 with encouragement from Biology master John Smith who had played with the Merseyssippi Jazzmen. We played at school events and generally provided indoor entertainment on miserable winter days! In 1964-65 the Band participated in a competition sponsored by the Yorkshire Evening Post. It was held in the old Leeds City Tram Shed. This photo appeared in the YEP in the lead up to the competition. The band played until 1965 when most of its members left school.”
“I recently came across this photo of the HGS Jazz Band and thought it might be a useful addition to the excellent website. It was taken in the school music room around 1963. The band formed in 1962 with encouragement from Biology master John Smith who had played with the Merseyssippi Jazzmen. We played at school events and generally provided indoor entertainment on miserable winter days! In 1964-65 the Band participated in a competition sponsored by the Yorkshire Evening Post. It was held in the old Leeds City Tram Shed. This photo appeared in the YEP in the lead up to the competition. The band played until 1965 when most of its members left school.”
Summer Concert 1965
The highlight of the year's musical activities was, as always, the Summer Concert, and the performers this year displayed their skills admirably. The choirs, which, by tradition, provide the opening and finale, gave performances of a high standard, especially the girls' choir whose harmonious rendering of three negro spirituals proved an excellent finale to the evening's entertainment.
The highlight of the year's musical activities was, as always, the Summer Concert, and the performers this year displayed their skills admirably. The choirs, which, by tradition, provide the opening and finale, gave performances of a high standard, especially the girls' choir whose harmonious rendering of three negro spirituals proved an excellent finale to the evening's entertainment.
Mr Gray (Summer Concert Business Manager)
Robert Hanley
No photo available |
Sonia Smillie
No photo available |
Angela Deighton
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Pauline Ogley
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Mr. D. Want
No photo available |
Dennis Jordan
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Individual performers were Robert Hanley (violin), Sonia Smillie (accordion), Angela Deighton (piano), Pauline Ogley (contralto), Mr. D. Want (trombone) and Dennis Jordan who sang one of his own compositions and one of his own arrangements. One feature not seen at a concert for some considerable time was a violin quartet which rendered two enjoyable numbers. The Brass group, which has improved beyond all recognition, gave Clark's "Trumpet Voluntary" as one of two pieces. The Jazz band, though reduced in number through illness, gave, nevertheless, a polished interlude, and two fast Spanish Dances were the subject of enjoyable piano duets by Miss. Evans and Mr. Cooling. Special thanks must be given to Miss. Evans, Mr. Cooling and all the other members of staff who helped in the preparation and practices which went on for many weeks. Also thanks are due to Mr. Gray, the business manager, whose untiring efforts in the sale of tickets helped to make this concert, a great success.
Andrew Hudson, U6S
Andrew Hudson, U6S
5. The beginning of an HGS Tradition
One of the highlights of the School Year was Sports Day. This was an annual event. When I was at HGS this was a large undertaking which involved many people "in the background" and was always preceded by Heats Day. Sports Day was really "Finals Day" after competitors had qualified on Heats Day. I think that Mr Leonard modernised the day after his appointment to the school in 1940. Mr Nelson also made changes pre-war in his time at HGS. Mr Tate and Mr Wilkinson completed the development of Sports Day from 1956 to 1967 when the School closed.
Dave
Dave
The members of Staff below were in charge of Sports Days from the 1930s until the school closed in 1967. There was, of course, a significant input from the lady members of the Physical Education Staff.
Mr Nelson
1930s |
Mr Leonard
1940-55 |
Mr Tate
1956-63 |
Mr Wilkinson
1964-67 |
The First Parents Day - July 22nd 1922
The plans were for Sports at two o'clock, then tea followed by songs and an exhibition of country dances afterwards. The weather almost spoiled this inaugural Saturday event, as the rain curtailed the sports events, and tea in the open air had to be abandoned altogether. All the tables were transferred into the classrooms at the last minute, and a large number of pupils, parents, Governors and Staff sat down together. The evening's programme of music and folk dancing was postponed until the following Wednesday.
The plans were for Sports at two o'clock, then tea followed by songs and an exhibition of country dances afterwards. The weather almost spoiled this inaugural Saturday event, as the rain curtailed the sports events, and tea in the open air had to be abandoned altogether. All the tables were transferred into the classrooms at the last minute, and a large number of pupils, parents, Governors and Staff sat down together. The evening's programme of music and folk dancing was postponed until the following Wednesday.
Mr. Jenkinson was in charge of the arrangements, and several Governors acted as judges and stewards for the sports. Mr. S.G. Clift was the starter, Mr. E. Dickinson was marshal, and Miss M.A. Griffiths was recorder. All the points gained in the events counted towards the inter-House Cup. The score after the Saturday sports was Holgate 55; Talbot 47. The pre-downpour sports results give us, for the first time, the names of 42 of that first intake of pupils.
Mr. Jenkinson
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Mr. S.G. Clift
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Mr. E. Dickinson
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Miss M.A. Griffiths
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The Sports Events of the first Sports/Parents Day in 1922
Throwing the Cricket Ball
1. Brooke, 2. Garbett, 3. Rothera F.A.
100 yards Girls under 13
1. M. Lindsey, 2. M. Hudson, 3. R. Pearson
100 yards Boys, Open
1. Garbett, 2. Cockburn, 3. Barker E.J.
High Jump, Girls Open
1. S. Dawson, 2. S. Swaine, 3. Lilian Dykes
220 yards, Boys under
1. Knee, 2. Keenan, 3. Philip Bull
300 yards Handicap, Girls Open
1. C. Madden, 2. J. Taylor, 3. Winifred Walsh
High Jump, Boys Open
1. Webster, 2. (Equal), Knee and Glew
3-legged race, Girls under 13
1. Clarice Allen & F. Hirst, 2. S. Brown & L. Pearson, 3. Alice Scott & C. Madden
High Jump Boys under 13
1. Knee, 2. Backhouse, 3. Philip Bull
Balance Race, Girls Open
1. M. Wootton, 2. Molly Price, 3. M. Everett
440 yards Boys Open
1. Garbett, 2. Cockburn, 3. Crossley
100 yards Girls Open
1. N. Swaine, 2. W. Walsh, 3. L. Deighton
Sack Race Boys under 13
1. Philip Bull, 2. Knee, 3. Rothera F.A.
Obstacle Race Girls Open
1. E. Richardson, 2. Lilian Dykes, 3. J. Taylor
880 yards Boys Open
1. Garbett minor, 2. Garbett major, 3. Cyril Teale
Blindfold Driving, Girls Open
1. M. Lindsey & Doris Miles, 2. L. Booker & L. Deighton, 3. Emma Bates & E. Parker
Obstacle Race, Boys Open
1. Tait S., 2. Webster, 3. Thorpe A.
1. Brooke, 2. Garbett, 3. Rothera F.A.
100 yards Girls under 13
1. M. Lindsey, 2. M. Hudson, 3. R. Pearson
100 yards Boys, Open
1. Garbett, 2. Cockburn, 3. Barker E.J.
High Jump, Girls Open
1. S. Dawson, 2. S. Swaine, 3. Lilian Dykes
220 yards, Boys under
1. Knee, 2. Keenan, 3. Philip Bull
300 yards Handicap, Girls Open
1. C. Madden, 2. J. Taylor, 3. Winifred Walsh
High Jump, Boys Open
1. Webster, 2. (Equal), Knee and Glew
3-legged race, Girls under 13
1. Clarice Allen & F. Hirst, 2. S. Brown & L. Pearson, 3. Alice Scott & C. Madden
High Jump Boys under 13
1. Knee, 2. Backhouse, 3. Philip Bull
Balance Race, Girls Open
1. M. Wootton, 2. Molly Price, 3. M. Everett
440 yards Boys Open
1. Garbett, 2. Cockburn, 3. Crossley
100 yards Girls Open
1. N. Swaine, 2. W. Walsh, 3. L. Deighton
Sack Race Boys under 13
1. Philip Bull, 2. Knee, 3. Rothera F.A.
Obstacle Race Girls Open
1. E. Richardson, 2. Lilian Dykes, 3. J. Taylor
880 yards Boys Open
1. Garbett minor, 2. Garbett major, 3. Cyril Teale
Blindfold Driving, Girls Open
1. M. Lindsey & Doris Miles, 2. L. Booker & L. Deighton, 3. Emma Bates & E. Parker
Obstacle Race, Boys Open
1. Tait S., 2. Webster, 3. Thorpe A.
The Second Annual Sports and Parents' Day - July 14th 1923
Unlike the year before, the weather did not interrupt the planned Saturday programme of sports, tea and Cricket.
The Sports
Points gained by the pupils in the sports were added to those gained by work and conduct during the ordinary school routine, and at the end of the summer term would decide which of the two Houses should be awarded the "Talbot" shield. (Previous reports of this "Talbot" trophy mentioned a silver cup). In keeping with the motto of the school, "Labor Ipse Voluptas" (find pleasure in the work itself) the only 'prizes' given to the winners of the events were the points gained for the pupils' respective Houses. The trophy had been awarded to Talbot House in the previous year, and that competition had been keen and close, as it was on this day.
Unlike the year before, the weather did not interrupt the planned Saturday programme of sports, tea and Cricket.
The Sports
Points gained by the pupils in the sports were added to those gained by work and conduct during the ordinary school routine, and at the end of the summer term would decide which of the two Houses should be awarded the "Talbot" shield. (Previous reports of this "Talbot" trophy mentioned a silver cup). In keeping with the motto of the school, "Labor Ipse Voluptas" (find pleasure in the work itself) the only 'prizes' given to the winners of the events were the points gained for the pupils' respective Houses. The trophy had been awarded to Talbot House in the previous year, and that competition had been keen and close, as it was on this day.
Mr Crossland
Each event followed on smoothly from the last - a tribute to the organisation of the school's staff. Mr. A. G. Jenkinson, the headmaster, presided over the gathering, and had very efficient officials in Mr. Sydney G. Clift, (starter), Mr. Philip Crossland (marshall), Miss M. A. Griffiths (recorder), with the remainder of the staff giving valuable support. Members of the governing body assisted with the judging.
The two Houses ran practically neck-and-neck in their competition until the closing events. Holgate won the Cricket Ball event, and Talbot levelled things immediately. Talbot took the lead in the boys' Open 100 yards sprint, but lost it immediately in the girls' Open High Jump. Holgate went ahead by gaining a first and third in the 220 yards, lost it immediately in the girls' 300 yards, regained it in the boys' open high jump, and lost it again an event later. Then the Houses were level for a couple of events, and so it went on, with the lead changing again and again, until with twenty of the twenty-one events completed, the score stood at Talbot 62, Holgate 60. It was time for the Relay event, in which both girls and boys took part. Holgate jumped off with a lead and increased it to several yards in the first few laps, but amid excited cheering a Talbot boy got ahead. The girls maintained the advantage and finally Talbot House won well, while the whole school cheered itself hoarse. An outstanding feature of the sports was the splendid running of Smith Major, who won the open 100 yards, quarter-mile and half-mile. The first two events produced very keen finishes, but Smith ran the half-mile with great ease in brilliant style. He also helped to turn the scale in the relay, so that he did great work for Talbot House during the day.
Sheila
The two Houses ran practically neck-and-neck in their competition until the closing events. Holgate won the Cricket Ball event, and Talbot levelled things immediately. Talbot took the lead in the boys' Open 100 yards sprint, but lost it immediately in the girls' Open High Jump. Holgate went ahead by gaining a first and third in the 220 yards, lost it immediately in the girls' 300 yards, regained it in the boys' open high jump, and lost it again an event later. Then the Houses were level for a couple of events, and so it went on, with the lead changing again and again, until with twenty of the twenty-one events completed, the score stood at Talbot 62, Holgate 60. It was time for the Relay event, in which both girls and boys took part. Holgate jumped off with a lead and increased it to several yards in the first few laps, but amid excited cheering a Talbot boy got ahead. The girls maintained the advantage and finally Talbot House won well, while the whole school cheered itself hoarse. An outstanding feature of the sports was the splendid running of Smith Major, who won the open 100 yards, quarter-mile and half-mile. The first two events produced very keen finishes, but Smith ran the half-mile with great ease in brilliant style. He also helped to turn the scale in the relay, so that he did great work for Talbot House during the day.
Sheila
Appendix:
The image below comes from the first School Magazine, dated 1922.
The image below comes from the first School Magazine, dated 1922.
6. An email from Linda Collingwood, HGS 1962-69
Email 1
Dear Dave,
Well done on the development of HGS website. Most of the form photos I have are also the same ones as Joy Midgley. We were in the same form all the way through except first year. I was in Romans. I was looking at the Holiday and Society sections and remembered something. Did the Christian Society change into the Ichthus Club? I remember Dennis Bavister, RE teacher, taking us all to Beddgelert in N. Wales for at least two holidays staying at a Christian Hostel.
Well done on the development of HGS website. Most of the form photos I have are also the same ones as Joy Midgley. We were in the same form all the way through except first year. I was in Romans. I was looking at the Holiday and Society sections and remembered something. Did the Christian Society change into the Ichthus Club? I remember Dennis Bavister, RE teacher, taking us all to Beddgelert in N. Wales for at least two holidays staying at a Christian Hostel.
Joy Midgley
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Mr Pacy (Maths) on Duty by the Science Block
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Mr. Bavister (R.E.)
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Romans 1962-63
Back Row L-R: Richard Lodge, Michael Killoran, Alan Barraclough
Third Row L-R: Steven Perry, Harrop A.K., Walker, Wood M., William Dyson, David Atkinson, Robert Studd, Dennis Whalley
Second Row L-R: Carey B., John Beaumont, Mark Horbury, Joy Butterfield, Pam Gell, Marrion Pearson, Graham Dawson, John Nock, Raymond Barker, Rogerson F.
Front Row L-R: Mary Harrison, Linda Collingwood, C. Hickling, Anne Hancock, Mr. Catley, Brenda Green, Louise Armitage, Jean Davies, Pauline Asquith
Third Row L-R: Steven Perry, Harrop A.K., Walker, Wood M., William Dyson, David Atkinson, Robert Studd, Dennis Whalley
Second Row L-R: Carey B., John Beaumont, Mark Horbury, Joy Butterfield, Pam Gell, Marrion Pearson, Graham Dawson, John Nock, Raymond Barker, Rogerson F.
Front Row L-R: Mary Harrison, Linda Collingwood, C. Hickling, Anne Hancock, Mr. Catley, Brenda Green, Louise Armitage, Jean Davies, Pauline Asquith
We went climbing up Snowdon via the P.Y.G. (Pen-y-Gwryd) track, and eating our lunch above the clouds. This would have been later on, maybe 1967 or even 1968. Does this ring a bell with anyone? George Pacy was a brilliant teacher. He taught me Maths for at least two years. I remember him telling us that we had finished the syllabus early in the second year, so he took the time to teach us Binary Maths. I don’t know if it’s a coincidence but several of us from that class ended up doing Maths A-level, then at University and into computing as part of our careers. I’m sure it is down to his influence and love of his subject. What is also obvious, is the quality of teaching throughout the school and the influence it must have made on us, judging from the number of us who went into teaching. More thoughts later,
Linda
(December 2002)
Linda
(December 2002)
Dear Linda,
Thanks for the compliment about the site. It has been fun putting it together this year. One of the pleasant things about the job is receiving so many interesting emails that prompt different lines of thought. I did not know about the Ichthus club at all. George Pacy got me through Maths O level. He did a great job. On the sports field too, he helped many pupils to enjoy the competitive aspects of extra-curricular life. In my case it was Rugby. He is, of course, a sportsman himself. Thank you very much for getting in touch again at this busy time.
Dave
The Ichthus Club 1964
When mysterious badges, bearing a stylised fish design began cropping up last September amongst the second and third-form pupils, it was the sign that a new School society had been formed - the Ichthus Club - a junior Christian society. The sign of the fish is a symbol which was used by the early Christians. The meetings have been varied in form and success. Debates, discussions and films have played their part (though the epidiascope, looking like some vintage field gun, failed to play its part in one chaotic meeting), but the highlight was undoubtedly the Christmas meeting with its games, its hymns set to ‘pop’ tunes and its mince pies. The club was organised by Miss Mathers, Mr. Murray and Mr. Hassall and we thank them for their help in making the club’s activities both useful and enjoyable.
Susan Smith. 3B
Thanks for the compliment about the site. It has been fun putting it together this year. One of the pleasant things about the job is receiving so many interesting emails that prompt different lines of thought. I did not know about the Ichthus club at all. George Pacy got me through Maths O level. He did a great job. On the sports field too, he helped many pupils to enjoy the competitive aspects of extra-curricular life. In my case it was Rugby. He is, of course, a sportsman himself. Thank you very much for getting in touch again at this busy time.
Dave
The Ichthus Club 1964
When mysterious badges, bearing a stylised fish design began cropping up last September amongst the second and third-form pupils, it was the sign that a new School society had been formed - the Ichthus Club - a junior Christian society. The sign of the fish is a symbol which was used by the early Christians. The meetings have been varied in form and success. Debates, discussions and films have played their part (though the epidiascope, looking like some vintage field gun, failed to play its part in one chaotic meeting), but the highlight was undoubtedly the Christmas meeting with its games, its hymns set to ‘pop’ tunes and its mince pies. The club was organised by Miss Mathers, Mr. Murray and Mr. Hassall and we thank them for their help in making the club’s activities both useful and enjoyable.
Susan Smith. 3B
The "bus" or Boys' playground (1940)
The Drawing Office (ground floor) or "Dog 'Ole"
Email 2
Dear Dave,
I have just been reading about the schoolyard, and the slides which the boys used to make on the slope. This led to one poor little first year (me), rushing to get to the school bus to Shafton at 4 o’clock, skidding and sliding half way down the yard. I stopped before I went under the wheels, and was so embarrassed, I laughed. The teacher on duty was furious with me, but I couldn’t help it, I was probably in Shock.
Talking about the Dog ‘ole and the rooms beside the yard - I think I remember having recorder lessons at lunchtime in the classroom up the wooden stairs, probably so that no-on could hear the noise we made. It must have paid off, because eventually I joined the orchestra. I also sang in the Junior, Senior and Madrigal choirs. I remember Speech Days as our busiest time of year. Thanks to whoever sent you the 1963 Panorama and to you for putting it on the site. So many faces, so many good friends, some I’ve kept in touch with, some lost forever. We were so young, so happy and enthusiastic - it gave me quite a funny feeling to see those faces.
Linda Collingwood
I have just been reading about the schoolyard, and the slides which the boys used to make on the slope. This led to one poor little first year (me), rushing to get to the school bus to Shafton at 4 o’clock, skidding and sliding half way down the yard. I stopped before I went under the wheels, and was so embarrassed, I laughed. The teacher on duty was furious with me, but I couldn’t help it, I was probably in Shock.
Talking about the Dog ‘ole and the rooms beside the yard - I think I remember having recorder lessons at lunchtime in the classroom up the wooden stairs, probably so that no-on could hear the noise we made. It must have paid off, because eventually I joined the orchestra. I also sang in the Junior, Senior and Madrigal choirs. I remember Speech Days as our busiest time of year. Thanks to whoever sent you the 1963 Panorama and to you for putting it on the site. So many faces, so many good friends, some I’ve kept in touch with, some lost forever. We were so young, so happy and enthusiastic - it gave me quite a funny feeling to see those faces.
Linda Collingwood
Comment
Julie Weston
I managed to get 2 stripes when I was at school. Mr Pacy gave me one for talking in assembly! Didn’t know I was doing it! Had the fright of my life when he pointed at me. What a booming voice.
I managed to get 2 stripes when I was at school. Mr Pacy gave me one for talking in assembly! Didn’t know I was doing it! Had the fright of my life when he pointed at me. What a booming voice.
Terry McCroakam
George Pacy was a great colleague on the Staff at HGS.
George Pacy was a great colleague on the Staff at HGS.
