Schools re-opened. Number present 133 morning and afternoon. 3 new scholars admitted, one re-admitted. Miss M.A. Elstow absent from school on  Friday Sept 3^rd owing to a death in the family.

Work carefully proceeding. Attendance today 125 & 134.

Standard V have had a first lesson on addition of fractions today. Standards III, IV,V,VI,& VII grouped for a singing lesson. Standard IV,V,VI,& VII took a grammar lesson together this morning. Standard II grammar taken by Miss Elstow (Verb) Transcription of Standard I this morning taken by the monitor. Standard II dictation was very carefully done this morning. Number present 127 & 128.

The number on the books for week ending Sept 7^th – 176, number present 156, average attendance 129.9

Number present today 138 & 136. Standard I had cards for the arithmetic today.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight, chairman of the board. Number present today 138 & 134

The number on the registers for week ending Sept. 14^th – 174, number present at all 166, average attendance 136.3. 2 children left this week, one owing to illness and one removed to Northampton. Needlework & Knitting progressing well in the different classes.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the board. Standard V, VI & VII took grammar on paper this morning. Standard IV a grammar lesson on the blackboard. Attendance yesterday afternoon only 101 owing to a circus in the neighbourhood.

The attendance throughout this week has been very poor. The average only reaching 120.3 against 136.3 of last week. 15 scholars being absent the whole of the week. Number on books 168. Number present 153. Average attendance 120.3

Number present this morning 85. Numbers too small in the afternoon for registers to be marked. This week being the Feast Week & school being opened allows for the low numbers. I believe the custom previously has been to close the school for the week.

91 present in the morning, afternoon 1. Registers not marked.

83 present this morning. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board, Monday & Tuesday morning.

School obliged to be closed this afternoon owing to poor attendance.

School only opened 5 times this week. The average attendance has been 87, numbers on the books 167, number present 104.

The attendance during the week has been much better. The average attendance has been 132.9, number present at all 158, number on the register 165. On Thursday Oct 4^th I examined the work of Standard II, dictation & reading were well done. The arithmetic was not so good. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board this morning.

Number present this morning 128

Number present this afternoon 137

The arithmetic of Standard II very much better done this week than that of last week. Work done much more neatly. Standard IV took arithmetic instead of grammar this afternoon. Copy books of Standard II to be taken on Thursday afternoon instead of Wednesday morning. Attendance this week not quite so good as last week.

The attendance during this week although a greater number of children have been present, is not so good as that of last. The average being 131.4, number present 163. Number on the books 165. School has opened 10 times. At the meeting of the Board on Monday Oct.8^th the school fees of Ada Sharp were remitted for one month.

The child Grace Grundwell re-admitted this morning and Elizabeth Hodby left being 14 years of age.

Grammar of the Upper Standards taken together for grammar. This afternoon Standards III,IV,V,VI & VII grouped for singing, taken by Certificated Assistant.

Lessons taken by Standard II this afternoon instead of needlework by the children who had finished exam sewing.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board this morning. I took Standard IV for grammar & afterwards for an arithmetic lesson, the latter being fairly well done. Attendance this afternoon 140

Arithmetic of Standard IV done a little better this morning. The attendance for the week has averaged 132.6. Number on the register 165 & numbers present 159. The following children although frequently sent for and complained about still attend very badly. Minnie Glover having made 33 out of 74. Gertrude Glover 34 out of 74. Louisa Mason a child of 7 – 41 out of 65. Clara Waite absent 4 weeks & then made 15 out of 30. This kind of attendance makes the work especially difficult to the teachers.

I took the grammar of Standard II this morning. The nouns were known fairly well but the verbs need more attention. The arithmetic of this class not so well done this morning. The reading of the class has improved, and the spelling too except in a few cases. The grammar of Standard IV does not progress very quickly, as so many in the class are half time scholars.

I was absent from school all day owing to illness.

I have this day examined the registers and found them correct. Sam Knight Chairman of the Board.

The average attendance for the week ending Oct. 26^th was 128.8, number present at all 160, number on the books 165.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board.

See note after Nov. 5th

The attendance so far this week has been poor, so many children are ill with colds

Visit pair by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board this afternoon. The arithmetic of Standard IV is improving. I found it done much better this morning than it was a week ago. The writing too is much improved to that of some little while ago. I was pleased to find that more attention had also been given to the spelling. Standard I has been but a small class all the week. Several away owing to illness. I have today Friday given out a new set of Clarkson’s arithmetic cards. Also one of the Whitehall, also one of Stanhope, for the use of Standard III,IV,V & VI. The average attendance for the week ending Nov. 3^rd has been 122.4. The number on the books 165 & the number present at all 151. Ada Sharp’s fees are remitted by permission for another week.

Number present this morning 125 and this afternoon too small to be marked (after waiting ¾ hour it was found necessary to close the school.

On the morning of Oct. 31^st when two girls (Annie Bush & Deborah Packwood) went home, a silk neck-tie and a new pair of gloves were missing. Upon questioning the girls in the afternoon, I found that one, Louise Underwood, ( a half time scholar) had been seen to hang the neck-tie on their peg. Nothing more has been seen or heard of the articles. When the girl came to school I questioned her about it & she owned up to interfering with the neck-tie but said she had not taken them home. ( I have myself found this girl pilfering small things belonging to school.) Her mother came down about the matter on 7^th Nov. the same afternoon (Oct 31^st) a scarf belonging to Mary Clipstone was lost.

 Miss Darnell absent all day owing to illness. Miss Elstow took charge of Standard I & II, the monitor, Standard II, myself IV,V, VI & VII. Lessons taken instead of needlework this afternoon.

Miss Darnell still absent. Visit paid by Mr. Knight , chairman of the Board this morning. Sarah Allen sent home for being late yesterday morning. This was her first appearance this week and during the 5 previous weeks out of 50 possible attendances has made only 27. Needlework taken this afternoon instead of lessons from 1-45 to 3pm. A new school song taken called “Laughing Morn.”

Miss Darnell still absent, number present this morning 125. The average attendance for week ending Nov. 9^th is 123.6 School has been opened 9 times this week. Number present 149. Number on register 163. A great number of children have been absent owing to illness.

Miss Darnell still absent. Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board. Lesson taken this afternoon instead of needlework

Miss Darnell returned to school this morning. Emily Parker sent home ill. Needlework taken this afternoon, instead of Monday.

Needlework taken this afternoon. Emily Parker too unwell to attend school. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. Permission given to admit Ellen & Louise Chettle without school fees (mentioned at Board meeting Nov. 12^th by Mr. Knight.)

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board this afternoon. The average attendance for week ending Nov. 16th has been 125.9.Number on the books 163 & number present 153. Several children only made 1,2 & 3 attendances owing to illness. Standard II had their first lesson in recitation for the year “The Faithful Dog”

Monday Sarah Allen re-entered after an absence of about a fortnight. The reason given by the mother for taking her away was “She was always wanting to leave.” Mr. Vann, the National Schoolmaster could not take her in, owing to his school being full.

Standard II took a new song this afternoon, as the singing lesson. Standard II arithmetic done much neater this afternoon than the last time I examined the class.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board this morning. I have great difficulty on account of the irregularity of some of the scholars. Attendance this week has been a little better than that of last the average attendance for the week being 127.7. Number present at all 157, on the register 164.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight ,Chairman of the Board.

Attendance throughout the week has been much better. Yesterday afternoon the number present was 141.

The average attendance for the week has been 133.9. This is the best weekly average since week ending Sept. 14^th. The number on the register has been 165, number present 161. Two new scholars have been entered this week. Ellen Bland has been absent the whole of the week. I have given Miss Elstow permission to be absent all the morning next week as she is studying for the Certificate Examination, which takes place the following week.

Attendance this afternoon poor numbering only 120. Monitor is taking Standard I in the mornings this week. I, myself, Standards II,V & VI.

I sent Louise Underwood back this afternoon on account of her brother having died from fever, I believe.

The average attendance for the week has been 129, number present 155, number on the books 163. Several children have been absent throughout the week owing to illness. Elizabeth White has been absent 7 weeks and Ellen Bland 9 weeks. One child has been taken off the Standard Register and one admitted.

I examined the work of Standard I this morning the work was done fairly well except in a few cases. Beatrice Darnell has improved but is still far behind the other children in their lessons. The same may be said of Ada sharp. Both these children suffer with bad health and are therefore often absent from school. Standard II work with the exception of Sarah Allen was fairly well done. Standard IV arithmetic is improving, but Standard III are slow with the problem part.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board. Miss Elstow absent, attending Certificate examination. Number present this afternoon 135.

Number present this afternoon 139. Work proceeding as yesterday. Monitor taking Miss Elstow class and myself Standard II as well as V & VI

Miss Elstow absent all week at Certificate examination. Number present for week ending Dec. 4^th 157 , number on register 161. Average attendance 131.2. Ellen Bland 7 Elizabeth Harris still absent from school.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. It was decided at the Board Meeting held on 10^th that the schools should be closed for a fortnight at Christmas. A Temperance lecture was given on December 17^th in the afternoon on “Alcohol & the Human Body” by Dr. Seirston. 15 of the girls have since written an essay on the subject, for prize competition and certificates. The attendance this week is not quite so good.

Average attendance for the week has been 122.8. Number present 149, number on register 161. The schools today have been closed for a fortnight.

School re-opened today. Visit paid by Mr. knight, chairman of the Board.

I have found it necessary to change Standard I teacher to Standard II class and Standard II monitor to Standard I class as this was the smaller of the two. Visit paid by Mr. Knight.

I have taken the arithmetic of Standard IV several times this week. The half time scholars are still very backward with problems. Laura Maddock is again ill- suffering from fits. Ellen Bland has not yet returned to school. The average attendance for the week has been 124.2, number present at all 150, number on register 159 + 1. 1 girl admitted and two left over age.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. The school fees of Ellen & Louisa Chettle and Ada & Louisa Sharp remitted for a month. Those of Ethel Bond for 3 months. (Were remitted at the Board meeting held this evening.)

The attendance this week so far, is poor. Sarah Campion’s and Laura Maddock’s name removed from registers on account of illness.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. Number of present at all during the week 150, number on the books 159, average attendance 125.6

Several children absent owing to illness. I punished Elizabeth Underwood for stubbornness. She had a lesson of analysis. When the class were called up for the lesson to be marked she with several others had not finished. They were sent back to their seats to complete the lesson. The other children finished theirs but she would not do so. So I stood behind her to see she had it. Seeing this she took up the pen and deliberately scrawled the lines across the paper. I took this away and gave her another which she served the same .I then punished her and after standing by her some 30 minutes she finished her work. She has given me trouble several times just lately but never been so troublesome before. I did not punish her until I had repeatedly told her what to do. This afternoon the mother came down about it, when I explained the cause for punishment.

Absent from school a month owing to illness.

I have this day checked the registers & signed the same. Sam Knight Chairman of the Board.

Returned to school today. Visit paid morning and afternoon by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board. I find that the school was closed on Monday morning Feb. 11^th owing to small attendance (bad weather) Returns for week ending Jan 25^th – number of attendances 1249, average attendance 124.9, numbers present 151, number on books 159.

Returns for week ending 1^st Feb. Total attendance 1268, average attendance 126.8, number of times school open 10, number present 157, number on books 160. One child has left , the reason being to go to private school in order to get practice in music. Two girls admitted.

Week ending Feb. 8^th, total attendance 1256, average 125.6, number present 153 , on the books 160.

Feb 15^th Attendance 1207, average 111.8 only open 9 times owing to bad weather. Number present 142, number on books 160.

Visit paid by Mr .Knight, Chairman of the Board.

I took the arithmetic of Standard I this morning. The lesson was done fairly well in most cases. The spelling of this class is not quite so good. I took the singing of the different classes this afternoon.

I took the arithmetic of Standard IV and with the exception of a few cases it was done fairly well. I find Beatrice Darnell in Standard I very backward but this is owing to bad health. The child not knowing her letters when she came in the beginning of the year. The attendance for the week is 1270, average attendance 128. Number on books 155, number on register 161. One girl Campion who left on account of illness has been re-admitted. One child admitted and one left the village. A visit was paid this morning by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board. Poor attendance owing to bad weather. I looked over the arithmetic of Standard III & IV this morning. The work was fairly accurate but in some cases might have been a little neater.

The reading of Standard I is progressing fairly, except in the case of one or two children who when admitted did not know their letters. Ellen Childs has left the village and returned home.

The spelling of Standard I & II have improved since I last took them but still there is room for improvement in many cases. The writing of Standard IV has greatly improved. The average attendance for the week is 123.5, number on the books 162, one re-admission having been made, number present at all 152. Standard VI had their lesson in cutting out this afternoon instead of needlework.

Attendance this morning 134. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. School closed in the afternoon on account of the room being used for School Board Election.

I examined Standard I this morning in dictation and arithmetic. This afternoon I took the grammar which is rather poor. The arithmetic and dictation of both classes was fairly well done. Number present this morning 130 , this afternoon 131. I took the work of Standard III this morning. I find the spelling the weakest point.

There was a very poor attendance all day yesterday owing to snowy weather, morning 115, afternoon 126. I find Beatrice Darnell & Ada Sharp both Standard I and both delicate children are still very backward. Sharp was absent all last week. Returns for week ending March 8^th 129, number on books 161, number present at all 156. Total attendances 1146, average attendance 127.3. School open 9 times. Half holiday for School Board Election.

I took Standard IV for grammar this morning and for arithmetic this afternoon. Some of the half time scholars seemed to know very little of the work and to get then anywhere near the other scholars seems almost impossibility. Number present this afternoon 134.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board this morning, opened school at 1.45 closed at 4.05

I took Standard IV for Grammar the first lesson this morning and for arithmetic the last. Needlework taken this afternoon instead of on Wednesday by Standards VI, V, IV & III. Specimen work. I find that Nellie Gilbert instead of going for Grammar to Standard III on Tuesday morning went home. She had been sent to Lower Class for not paying attention to the lesson. Has not been since. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. School fees of E Bond, Ada and Susannah Sharp remitted for (3 months Bond) a month.

Ellen Bland & Gertrude Glover left. Both going to live at Northampton. Returns for the week. Total attendances 1288. Average (school open 10 times) 128.8 Number present 155. Number on register 161. Standard I had a first lesson in cutting out this afternoon. This morning I took Standard IV for Grammar, Reading, Arithmetic and Dictation. Lesson fairly well done, except in the case of some half time scholars.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight Chairman of the Board. I find upon enquiry that Nellie Gilbert went home because she felt unwell. Needlework taken by Standard I & II this afternoon instead of Monday. On March 7^th Miss Elstow received word that she had passed certificate examination, being placed in Third Division 2^nd year papers.

Number present this morning 102. (A very snowy morning.) Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. Number present this afternoon 134. School closed at 4 instead of 4.30 (children’s tea.)

The total attendances for the week ending March 22^nd are 1267. Average attendance 126.7. Number present at all 154. Number on register 158

The numbers present for today have been 133 & 136

I took Standards IV, V & VI for grammar this morning. Same classes in the afternoon for singing. I find it more convenient to take the specimen sewing at the end instead of the beginning of the afternoon.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight. I examined Standards I, II & III this morning. Standard I with the exception of Beatrice Darnell did fairly well. This child had never been to school until she came to us and consequently did not know her letters. She can now read a little – but spelling and arithmetic she cannot do. The child has had such bad health that we may not try her too much. Standard II do not answer verbs at all well. Standard II spelling was only fair. The total attendances for the week have been 1302. Average 130. Number present 156. On books 159

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. I took grammar of Standard IV this morning. The lesson being badly done it was taken again in the afternoon. Singing of Upper Standards taken this afternoon. Numbers present today 132 & 133.

Punished Amelia Desborough for a careless, badly written lesson. This girl has given great trouble lately. If kept in to finish the lesson which has been badly done during the morning or afternoon, the mother comes to fetch her with a great deal of noise. If punished she creates a similar disturbance and so the result is she gets at times sulky and stupid over her work and knowing she will have her part taken to the disadvantage of the teachers she shows a great amount of confidence about it. I did not punish her severely. I caned her fingers not more than three times.

Clara Cox refused to do as Miss Darnell told her ( in same class as above) and so she was punished and kept in.

Total attendances for week ending April 5^th, 1291. Average attendance 129.1. Number present 155. Number on books 159. Amelia Desborough returned to school this afternoon. Amy Lawson & Sarah Neville left, both being over 13 and passed Standard IV.

Very poor attendance in Upper Standards this morning.

Mr. Knight paid a visit this morning, and Standard IV worked this morning with Upper Standards.

I took Standard IV this morning for a grammar lesson instead of Copy books. The writing of this class has improved within the last few weeks. Upper Standards taken together for singing in the afternoon.

School visited this morning by Mr. Knight and Mr. Colson. Attendance this morning 120. 7 children absent for the whole of the week. Needlework taken all afternoon by III, IV, V & VI Standards. I find the classes working steadily but the attendance has not been good during the past week. Average attendance for the week 126.7. Number present at all 150. Number on books 157. The form for the approximate numbers for examination was filled up on Monday last.

Attendance very poor in Upper Standards this morning. Number present today 124 & 131.

The attendance of Standard IV continues to be low

The average attendance for the week is 129.6 Number on books 157. Number present 155. School closed today for two days holiday, Good Friday and Easter Monday.

School re-opened this morning. The attendance poor. Many children having gone from home d not returned.

Opened school at 1.30 and closed at 3.45

Standard IV taken for lessons with Standard V & VI. Standards V & VI had a cutting out lesson from 4 till 4.30. Attendance today rather better. The girls, Sharpe, have both left the neighbourhood.

I have examined the registers this day and found them correct, also fees. Sam Knight chairman of the Board.

The attendance for the week has only reached an average of 120.1. Ten children have been absent the whole week. Number on books is 154. Number present 144. I find the work of Standard III improving. Standard IV is a difficult class to work owing to the number of half time scholars. Standard V & VI took cutting out again this afternoon. Notice received of date of examination (May 30^th & 31^st.)

I admitted two new girls this morning. One this afternoon. I took Standard III with Standards V & VI for needlework. Standard III took the knitting exercise. Standards V & VI cutting out.

End of school year. The attendance this afternoon much better 138 being present. I took Standard IV for a grammar lesson this morning. Upper Standards taken together this afternoon for a singing lesson.

Attendance poor today. Children absent mostly observing May Day customs. I took the grammar and needlework of Upper Standards together this afternoon. Arithmetic of Standard IV improved since my last examination. The most backward children as a rule are the half time scholars – I find them so in most lessons. They also handle their needle very clumsily owing to the work they do out of school.

I took a singing lesson with Standard I. It was very well done. Singing exercises taken with Upper Standards this afternoon.

I examined Standard I, IV, and V & VI this morning in arithmetic and dictation. Standard I work was well done with the exception of Beatrice Darnell. This child through ill health, has been kept away from school a great deal. When I admitted her she did not know a letter and was as backward in the other subjects. Standard IV work was fairly well done. Standard IV arithmetic was good. Standard V very well done. The great difficulty the teachers have to content against is the half time work. The attendance for the week has been a little better reaching an average of 130.3. Number on the books 157. Number present 153. The 4 absent, are so on account of illness.

Three new girls admitted this morning. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. Needlework of Upper Standards taken the latter instead of first part of the afternoon.

I took the grammar of the Upper Standards this morning, orally. Also took the singing of the same Standards this afternoon. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board.

I took the singing of Standards I & II this morning. The work was well done. Examined the recitation of Standard I this afternoon.

 I again took the grammar and singing of the Upper Standard.

Lily Ladds in Standard VI has been absent last week and this owing to illness. The grammar of Standard II  was answered much better than when I last took the class. Throughout the past week I have taken the 4^th Standard for many of their lessons. The third standard sometimes numbers 36 and the two classes are too large for the classroom. Still it makes it difficult work, owing to IV,V & VI wanting so much individual attention during the arithmetic lessons. The attendance throughout the week has been 1373. Average attendance being 137. This is the highest average yet attained in the Girl’s Department. Number on books 160. Number present 158. Beatrice Darnell makes but little progress in figures. Spelling is a little improved and reading much improved. She is still far below the Standard in which she is working. Looking over some of the Standard IV needlework specimens, I found some very good pieces of work.

School visited by Mr. Knight and Mr. Boyd, members of the Board. Attendance today 134 & 136. I examined the arithmetic and grammar of Standard II this morning and it was done well. I also took the arithmetic of Standard I. this was also nicely done. Beatrice Darnell put her figures down in a very much better way, and that is all I can say of the improvement in her work. Standard III did their darning very nicely this afternoon – but the herring bone in a few cases was not quite so well done.

I examined the reading writing and arithmetic of Standard I. The lessons were very well done. Today Standard IV has worked with the V, & VI Standards.

I took the grammar and singing of the Upper Divisions.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight this morning. I examined Standards IV,V & VI. The writing in the IV Standard has greatly improved during the last month. The Dictation and Arithmetic of most papers was well done. I find the majority of the worst papers belonged to half time scholars. The grammar was very well done. The V & VI work was neat, and well done as a whole. Needlework and cutting out was taken the first two lessons this afternoon. Although more children have been present, the average attendance has not been so good for week ending May 17^th. Number present has been 159.  Number on books 160. Average attendance 135.7

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight, chairman of the board.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board. I took the dictation, arithmetic, grammar and reading of Standard II this morning. The work was neatly and for the most part very well done. In the afternoon I took the singing of Standard I & II.

I examined the work of Standard III this morning. This was well done. The arithmetic was especially well done. The writing was good and the paper work altogether neatly and carefully done. The grammar of Standard IV this morning was well done. I find in nearly every case that it is half time scholars who are behind in their work. The recitation of Standard I was nicely done, this afternoon. Several children, 9 or 10 have been absent all together or attended only half time owing to illness. The numbers this week & last week have not been as good as they might have been.

I examined Standard IV in grammar and took a writing lesson with Standard II. Minnie Hillman had to leave early this afternoon owing to her being unwell.

I examined Standard I & II this morning. The work especially of Standard I was very well done (with one exception). Standard II work was very carefully and neatly done. From 1.20 till 12 I took Standards IV,V & VI for arithmetic. Several children have been absent part or whole of the week owing to illness. The average attendance for the week has been 135.7 Total attendances 1357. Number on the books 156. Number present 160. Notice received that the exam will commence on Wednesday morning at 9am instead on Thursday.

School only fairly attended this morning owing to very wet weather. 120 present. School closed this afternoon owing to bad weather.

Work carefully going on. Several children absent owing to illness. Numbers present today 133 & 137.

List of Songs for Year ending April 30^th 1889

Division I

Standards I & II

1. Hoary Frost
2. No,no,no
3. Rosy Morn.

Division II

Standards III,IV,V, & VI

1. Tailor Boy
2.  No,no,no
3. Rosy Morn
4. Foot Traveller
5. Star of Peace.

School examination held today. Commenced at 9a.m. finished at 12.45. Holiday given in the afternoon.

Visit paid by Mr. Denton. The average attendance this week has been 122.5. Number on the books 159. Number present at all 150

On June 1^st Miss Darnell the certificated Assistant commenced duties at Moor Road Infant School. Appointment to date from June 3^rd. Miss Elstow having been appointed to fill the vacancy thus caused, took charge of Standard II & IV as Certificated Assistant. Miss Elstow’s place being taken by Miss J. Jacques from the Infant Department (as Ex. P.T.) This morning 23 girls were sent up from the Infant Department.

The schedules for year ending April 30^th 1889 were returned. The percentage of passes for this Department being 98, the same as the previous year. There was one failure in reading, 3 in arithmetic and 5 in writing. There being 417 passes out of 426. With two exceptions the failures are with half time scholars. The girl who failed in reading, had a long illness a little while ago, and this seems to have left her in a very nervous condition. The attendance this week has not been good. Several girls have left having reached the age of 13.

The attendance this week has been poor. Several children are away owing to illness. Only 147 out of 179 on the books have been present. I have admitted two children (Bayes and Joyce in Standard I) who are very backward indeed and one Mabel Hooton from the Infant School. This child has only been to school a short time. The total attendances for the week have been 983. Average attendance 122.7. School open 8 times. Closed for Whitsuntide Holiday this afternoon. Number of children on books 179. Number present 147. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, Chairman of the Board.

School re-opened this morning, having been closed a week for holiday. Number present this morning 124. Visit paid by Mr. Knight, this afternoon.

I took a grammar lesson with Standards IV,V,VI & VII this morning. I afterwards took one with Standard II. Miss Jacques not having been used to teaching girls need a great deal of supervision. She keeps good order. I also took a singing lesson with Standards I & II in the afternoon. Miss Elstow now takes Standards II & IV. I took the most backward girls of Standard V for an arithmetic lesson, whilst those who could do the small practice sums worked on paper. Standard I children as a whole read fairly well, but the reading still needs to be louder.

Standard I took their first copy book lesson. Some children handled pens fairly well. Some needed great attention. Standard II had dictation on paper for the first time. I took the lesson to show the teacher who is from the Infant School.

Standard V had a lesson with £-S-D in practice. Several girls do not yet understand it. Miss Jacques took Standard I & II for singing this afternoon. Standard VI & VII working arithmetic from rules in books. Quite a number of girls have this week started as half time scholars. Several being 10 a day or two previous.

Standard V began working samplers of Capital Letters as they have only done previously the letters E,H,I,L,B,Y. I find several very backward children in Standard I. Alice Underwood, Roselyn Bayes, Priscilla Loveday and Lily Joyce not knowing their letters and not scarcely able to make many of them. The work of the other classes going on steadily. Several bad spellers in Standard V. Clara Minard put up into Standard II class without passing Standard I as she seems to try very hard and has been in the old Standard for about three months. Florence Clark who was ill on examination day and unable to be examined also put up a class. The other child who was ill same day has not yet returned to school. The total attendances for week ending June 21^st, 1286. School open 10 times. Average attendance 126.8. Number of scholars on books 171. Number present at all 153. Visit paid by Mr. Knight this morning.

Number present 134. Half holiday given this afternoon on account of school treat being held in the neighbourhood. Twelve children not yet attended school since the Whitsuntide Holiday. The work in the classes carefully proceeding. Eleven new half time scholars (in the past fortnight) entered on half time register.

Grammar of Standard IV taken first lesson instead of with Standard V & VI. Standard V & VI took grammar second lesson. I took singing with the Lower Division, to show the teacher what to do as she has been accustomed to Infants. I am obliged to do this frequently as the work in this school is so different. Whilst doing this Upper Standards have to be left to themselves. The same with Standard III & IV has to be done. The teacher Miss Elstow having come from the Infants when the Girls’ School commenced. The first year she took Standard I, the next Standard II. The work done at times is not very deep. Not having been accustomed to the work it seems to take a long time to get used to it.

Lesson on case taken with Standard IV.

Dictation of Standard II this morning fairly well done. Arithmetic with this class has been taken to multiplication by 12, and addition and subtraction of thousands and tens of thousands. Standard III had a lesson on classification of adjectives. Standard V had practice with pounds, shillings and pence. Standard VI are going on fairly well with their arithmetic considering that they have had but little attention. The arithmetic of Standard III & IV going on carefully. Number present this morning 135.

Report of Examination received today. Visit paid by Mr. Knight this morning. School closed next Monday owing to Band of Hope trip. Total attendances for week ending June 28^th 1163. Average attendance 129.2. Number on books 168. Number present 156. Ada Harwood ill- name removed from register it being uncertain as to how long she may be absent. 12 children absent the whole of the week.

School closed all day

The writing of Standard II is improving. Standard I took another writing lesson in copy books.

The work of the different classes carefully proceeding.

The attendance throughout the week has been poor. There are 8 or 9 girls who have been absent since the examination and several others for two or three weeks. The total number of attendances are 1005. School opened 8 times. Average attendance 125.5. Number on the register 166. Number present at all 149. Some few children have commenced the examination knitting for another year.

Attendance this morning slightly improved. Standard II took multiplication by two figures. Dictation of this class much better this morning. Standard I getting on nicely with their copy book writing. Standard II have today commenced their examination knitting. A very delicate child admitted this afternoon, Pricilla Jones. She has attended no school for five years having been kept in the infirmary with some affection of the spine.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight. Standard VI had a lesson on complex sentences. Standard V on a simple sentence. Standard IV had a parsing lesson on the verbs. Standard II took the noun.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the board. Miriam Perkins, Standard V, helped in Infant School today owing to the absence of the mistress. The attendance in a few cases is still bad. 7 children have been absent from 2 to 7 weeks. Total attendances for the week 1315. Average attendance 131.5. Number present 157. Number on the books 167. Most of the examination knitting in the Upper Standards is now commenced. Work of the classes carefully proceeding. A great number of girls have since the examination commenced as half time scholars.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight. Holiday given this afternoon. Attendance this morning only fair. Miriam Perkins went in Infant School from 10.45 to 12 noon.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight. Miriam Perkins in Infant School this morning. Standard III had a lesson on the preposition. Standard IV<V & VI a parsing lesson. Number present this afternoon 140. At the Board Meeting held on Monday Evening July 15^th it was decided to close school on August 2^nd for 4 weeks. Louise Sargent in Infant School this afternoon. I took the singing of the different standards this afternoon.

Copy book writing taken throughout the school this morning. Standard I are progressing well, with this lesson.

The IV, V & VI Standard took a new song this afternoon. Standard I & II instead of singing learned the words of the song “The Winter King”. The arithmetic of the Upper Standards is making slow progress in some cases, owing to bad attendance and the half time scholars. Number present this afternoon 97, a school treat being held in the village.

The number on the books for week ending July 19^th is 166. Number present at all 166. Average attendance for the week 123.5. School open 9 times. Standard II is only a small class, yet it would be useless to give an Infant Teacher, just from the Infant School Standard I & II of II & III. The work being so different from Infant School work especially with regard to half time scholars. Standard I are improving in their reading. Maud Wiggins’ name taken off register, she having left the school Grammar if Standard IV has been taken with Standard V & VI

The Fourth and Fifth Standards taken together for parsing this morning. Standard VI had a lesson on the parts of speech. Standard III & IV took a first lesson on recitation. Standard III “The Bridge” (Longfellow). Standard IV “The Cloud” (Shelley). Standard II took a lesson on noun. The singing of the school taken altogether last lesson this afternoon instead of the two last lessons. I punished Louisa Tye for disobedience. The attendance is yet only poor.

Classes took a lesson this afternoon instead of singing. Singing to be taken Friday afternoon instead of a lesson. I took Standards III & IV this morning. The lessons are as a rule carefully done. The half time scholars are, as a rule, the most backward children. Standard IV read well.

I have this day examined & confirmed register & Fees Book and find same correct. Sam Knight Chairman of the Board.

The average attendance for the week ending 26^th July has been 124.2. Total attendances 1124.2. Number present at all 153. Number on the books 165. The average attendance for the last 8 weeks has been very poor. The bad attendance and the number of half timer scholars make the work very difficult. The delicate girl Priscilla Jones has been absent this week owing to illness. The registers and summary were checked this morning by the Chairman of the School Board.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight. Attendance poor. 119 present. Half holiday given this afternoon owing to a school treat being held in the neighbourhood. The average for the quarter ending July 26^th is 128.9. The attendance throughout the school has not been at all good since the examination.

Standard IV have taken a writing lesson this morning, instead of yesterday morning. The attendance is bad this week. Standard II had a lesson on the noun. Standard III had a lesson on nouns and verbs. Beatrice Sargent taught in the Infant school yesterday afternoon. Priscilla Jones is absent again this week. She is a very delicate girl and unable to attend school regularly.

Visited school. Article 21 A.M. S. Ellicoook.

The total attendances for the week are 915. School open 8 times. Average attendance 114.3. Number on register 166. Number present at all 139. School closed this morning for a month.

School re-opened. Visit paid this morning by Mr. Claridge and Mr. Knight, members of the Board. Attendance today poor 107 & 110.

I took Standard III & IV today. Miss Elstow Standards V,VI & VII. I find it necessary to give Miss Jacques Standard III. Miss Elstow Standards I & II & the pupil teacher Standard IV. Standard III & IV are too large a class for the classroom & Standard I & II are smaller so I have this day changed the classes and their teachers. Miss Jacques coming from the Infant School is not nearly so much use to me as she should be. The attendance throughout the week has been low. The excuses as a rule are poor. New song taken with Upper Standards this afternoon.

Average attendance for the week has been 107.8. Total attendances 1078. School open 10 times. Number present at all 134. Number on books 163. Number left 3 all gone to live at a distance. One girl re-admitted.

Away from school owing to illness at home.

The attendance throughout the week has been a little better than that of the preceding week. Still it is poor. Number on the books 162. Number present at all 150. Average attendance 116.5. Total attendances 1160. Times open 10. Classes working steadily.

School visited this morning by Mr. Knight & Mr. Claridge. The former asking for the log book.

Mr. Knight again visited the school. Permission given to close the school on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday afternoon in the following week. (Feast Week.)

The attendance not quite so good as that of the previous week. 162 on register. 148 present. Total attendances 1085. Average attendance 108.5

Half holiday given by permission of the Board this afternoon. Number present this morning 70.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight.

The attendance throughout the week has been bad. 81 children present out of 162. School has been opened 7 times The total attendances has been 488. Average attendance 69.5. This is owing to children staying away because of its being Feast Week.

Copy of Report for Year ending April 30^th 1889

Average attendance 128.7

Added under article 127 – 8.5

Average attendance on which he grant is payable 137

Number presented 142. Total number of passes 137. 98%

Reading 141. Writing 137. Arithmetic 139.

Total Grant £134.14.4.

Girls’ School.

The arithmetic is excellent. The spelling is very good. Handwriting and reading are good. The meanings of words in the second and fourth standards require attention. English is very good. Needlework fairly good. Order excellent.

Staff at commencement of the Year.

Head Teacher – Alice Hunt

Certified Assistant – Mary Elstow.

Ex. P.T. – Jane Jacques.

First Year P.T. – Annie Ladds.

James Heygate Clerk of the Board.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight, chairman of the Board. I took a grammar lesson with Standard IV yesterday, also gain this afternoon, on the verb. Standard V have this morning had a lesson in proposition. Standard IV a lesson on multiplying and dividing. Standard III are beginning to understand long division a little better.

Same grammar lesson taken today with Standard IV. Standard VI took a lesson on a complex sentence. Standard I & II working carefully on. Several children absent owing to measles. About the fourth of the girls have their examination sewing and all with one exception their knitting for the year. Upper Standards taken together for singing this afternoon. Pupil teacher’s examination knitting finished. Number present during the week has been 150. Number on books 166. 3 children have been admitted and one re-admitted. The total attendances have been 1209. Average attendance 120.9. Two girls I find out of 54 attendances have made 16 & 17 respectively.

Registered fees, found correct. G. Holloman.

I have worked with Standard IV with dictation and arithmetic this morning. P. Teacher with Standards V, VI,VII

Worked with Standard IV this morning. Spelling and writing improving. Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight, Denton and Colson. 7 girls admitted this week. One left being over 12 and having passed Standard V. Attendances for the week 1226. Average attendances 122.6. Number present at all 156. Number on books 172. Several children absent, owing to fever & measles at home.

Attendance very poor today. Visit paid by Messrs. Boyd, Skinner & Knight. Number of the Board.

The attendances throughout the week have been very poor owing to the prevalence of measles in the neighbourhood. Total attendances for the week 1170. School open 10 times. Number on register 172. Number present at all 147. Average attendance 117. The work of the different classes is carefully proceeding. Standard IV answered much better in grammar on Thursday morning. Standard III recitation being well taught. Greater part of children now have their examination needlework. The knitting of about one half of the scholars is finished. Standard V have been working with L.C.M., G.L.M, and fractions during the week.

Visit paid this morning by Mr. Knight.

The attendance throughout the week has been very poor owing to measles in the district. This morning only 97 scholars are present out of 170 on the books. Number present at all 139. Number on books 170. Total attendances 1090. Average attendance 109. Visit paid this afternoon by Mr. Knight. Number present this afternoon 97.

Schools visited by Mr. Knight and Denton, members of the school board. Numbers for today 98 both meetings. New set of cards (Quarterly) “All the Year Round” given out.

Attendance poor, only numbering 99 out of 171 on the books. Lesson in composition given to Standard V and VI on “Leather, its manufacture and uses.” Sent in resignation to Clerk. Visit paid by Mr. Knight.

Standard I took a song “The Skaters” yesterday afternoon for singing lesson. Owing to dark, bad weather I have this week found it necessary to open school at 1.45 (instead of 2 o’clock) for the afternoon attendance. I took the grammar of Standard IV on Thursday morning and the arithmetic of same class in the afternoon. The attendance throughout the week has been low owing to an outbreak of measles which has been bad for several weeks) Out of 172 children on the books only 90 were present on Wednesday afternoon. Pupil Teacher has this week commenced her examination needlework, having completed her knitting some time since. With a few exceptions in the Upper Standards, the girls have their needlework. Number on the register for week ending Nov. 1^st 172. Number present at all 124. Number of attendances 962. Average attendance 96.

The attendance today has been a little better, but a number of scholars are still absent owing to measles at home.

School closed this afternoon

School visited by members of the Board, this afternoon in reference to the formation of the cooking classes, which are shortly to be commenced. Sewing taken this afternoon in all the classes from 1.45 to 3.05

The total number present at all for week ending Nov.8^th 141. Number on books 173. Total attendances 1007. School open 9 times. Average attendance 111.8 Thursday afternoon’s lessons taken this afternoon instead of needlework which was taken yesterday. Specimen composition lesson given to Upper Standards this morning. Singing taken altogether this afternoon.

The attendance this week so far has been about the same as that of the corresponding part of last week. Measles seems to be the chief cause of absence. I took a grammar lesson with Standard IV this afternoon.

School visited this morning by Messrs. Knight, Denton and Mason (Members of the Board.) Total attendances for week ending Nov. 15^th, 1148. Average attendance 114.8 number on books 173. Number present at all 142. School open 10 times.

Numbers today present 123 & 131. Several children still absent owing to illness. Most of the girls have now commenced examination needlework. Took Standard IV recitation.

The arrangement and working of the classes altered this morning owing to the commencement of the cooking class. Standard V & VI with six children of Standard IV took their lesson from 10 to 12. Standard I & II on this account worked in large room instead of class room. School visited this morning by Mr. Knight and afterwards by Mr. Wilkins. Cooking taken with second class this afternoon from 2 to 4pm part of Standard IV, V & VI. Singing of the remainder of the classes taken together. School visited by Mr. Knight. Took Standard IV for arithmetic. Arithmetic of Standard II taken by monitress.

Upper Standards took sewing this afternoon instead of lessons. Singing of Standard III & IV taken together by Assistant.

Attendance better throughout the week. There have been two or three fresh cases of measles, this week. Instead of ordinary work this morning in Upper Standards. The aprons for cooking class were completed. Total attendances for the week 1235. School open 10 times. Average attendance 123.5. Number present 152. Number on books 174. Several children have returned to school after being away for some weeks.

Attendance today 110 & 123. Another case of measles. Visit paid this morning by Mr. Claridge. Three new scholars admitted. Two for Standard I & one for Standard II.

Cooking lessons taken today at usual time. Standard I & II working in large room instead of classroom as their usual room is used for cooking lessons. Numbers present 117 & 130. Worked with Standard IV all day. Monitress with Standard I

The attendance for the week has not been so good as that of last week. Out of 177 scholars on the books 149 have been present at all Average attendance 116.4

I began my duties as Head Mistress here this morning. The school was visited by Mr. Knight (Chairman of the Board.) I find the writing very badly done in Standard IV and upwards and Standard V have not yet begun to write composition in their books.

The singing lesson for Standards I & II has been changed from 2.45 – 3.20 to 3.20 – 4o’clock as their singing interfered with the work of the other Standards. The cookery lessons have been taken as usual today. The pupil teacher (Annie Ladds) has been helping Miss Elstow all day and I have taken Standard IV in the morning and the 1^st Class in the afternoon. Visit paid by Mr. Knight this morning. Miss Elstow took the singing from Standard I upwards.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight Chairman of the Board this afternoon.

Examined from Standard III upwards in singing. Found that they had never beaten time to their exercises and that such names as accent marks, continuation marks etc. were quite unknown to them. Took from Standard IV upwards for Grammar this morning.

Visit paid by Mr. Knight Chairman of the Board. The attendance is improved; the average attendance for the week is 127.1

School visited by Mr. Knight in the morning and Mr. Boyd and by Mr. Colson in the afternoon.

Gave a grammar lesson to Standard IV in comparison of adjectives and declension of nouns.

Gave a lesson on grammar from Standard IV upwards on “Voice” this morning and took the singing from Standard III upwards this afternoon. The work has been much more neatly set down this week in the Upper Standards. The children are evidently trying but the composition this morning was still very badly done.

Average attendance for the week is 123.3. School visited by Mr. Knight in the morning and by Mr. Claridge in the afternoon.

Louisa Sheffield & her sister returned to school today after an absence of several weeks. Laura K Sears will be absent for several weeks owing to her head being broken out in several places. Her mother brought her this afternoon to shew it. The work in the Upper Standards has been done well today. Mr. Knight visited the school in the afternoon.

Miss Jacques has been absent this afternoon owing to the death of her sister. Mr. Knight visited the school this morning. Annie Elstow & Louise Sergent began teaching today as Stipendiary Monitor.

Closed today for Christmas Holidays. Attendance rather poor this afternoon. Mr. Knight visited the school this morning.

School opened today after a fortnight’s holiday at Christmas. The registers etc. had been taken to Wellingborough to be audited, so the names were written on paper & marked accordingly. Messrs. Knight & Boyd visited the school today.

The cookery lesson was not taken today as Miss Howe has an extra week’s holiday. The children therefore took their usual lessons. I spoke to Miss Jacques after school today about using a slate frame to strike children on the hands. She promised not to use it again.

The average attendance for the week is improved 130.1. Mrs. Bromage came to see if Clara had not better remain at home as two of the children were suffering from influenza. I spoke to Mr. Knight & he thought it would be better for her to remain away, as in case of infection, it would prevent it spreading. Mrs. Bromage was quite satisfied. I allowed Annie Ladds to have the last lesson for study on two days this week as her Geography, history and Music is very backward. I gave cards today to all the children who did their work carefully during the day.

The children took the first exercise in dumb bells today & got on very well with them.

The children took dumb bells again today. There are several cases of influenza amongst the children. Of course they are not able to attend school. Cookery lessons have been resumed.

Attendance very poor today, owing to sickness.  I sent out absence notes & they have nearly all been returned marker “Illness”

The third exercise in Dumb Bells was taken this morning from 9 to 9.30am. The singing lesson on Thursday afternoon has been changed to the last lesson on Friday. Instead of singing Standards V & VI take dictation, Standards II & IV take reading. Alice King has just told me that her father & two of her sisters have influenza, so I have told her that they must all remain at home until they are all quite better. Of course these cases affect the average considerably but it cannot be helped.

The attendance has been very poor today owing to influenza. A great number of the children seem to be suffering from it. The attendance is as follows:- Morning 107, Afternoon 105. Mr. Knight visited the school this afternoon. Mr. Boyd stayed to see the children go through their Dumb Bell Exercises. These are usually taken from 9.10 – 9.25 7 from 4.10 – 430, so that they interfere very little with the school work.

The girls had their usual cookery lesson today. Mr. Knight visited the school.

Attendance very poor this morning. There are several fresh cases of influenza.

Came back to school this morning after an absence of three days through illness (influenza). Miss Elstow took charge in my absence. Attendance very poor all week. Influenza still seems very prevalent.

Attendance for the week is only 90. The girls took sewing all afternoon as they did not take the ordinary sewing lesson on Monday 7 Wednesday.

Attendance is improved today. The room has been very cold this morning owing to the stock of coke being exhausted.

Examined Standards I & II this morning. Standard I is rather behind in writing. The average results in the three R’s are as follows:-

Standard I Reading 73%, Arithmetic 96.1% Writing 57.7%

Standard II Reading 94.4%, Arithmetic 83.3%, Writing 77.8%

Examined Standard III this morning. They answered very well. The following is the result

Reading 88.9%, Writing 81.5%, Arithmetic 74%

Attendance for the week is rather better than last week. The average is 112.4. Two girls have left this week as their parents have gone away from Rushden. Annie Checkley in Standard III & Deborah Packwood in Standard IV.

Alice Underwood returned to school today after a continued absence, but as her head was badly broken out, I sent her back again.

Emma Martin has lost her mark once this week and Sarah Smith twice. I don’t suppose it is the children’s fault as they come from a very poor home. The attendance has been much better this week, the average being 124.0

Attendance was very poor this morning, there being 134 present. School visited this morning by Mr. Knight & Mr. Mason.

Mr. Knight visited the school. Girls took cookery as usual.

Attendance for the week is 127.4. Julia Scholes & Emily Sears lost their mark this week.

Clara Waite came without her school fees & as she owed three week’s money I sent her home for it. Her mother sent a note saying that they were very poor & Mr. Boyd very kindly paid the fees owed by her. School visited by Messrs. Knight, Boyd & Claridge.

Girls took cookery today as usual.

The children had a half holiday this afternoon as we wished to have a rehearsal in the New Hall.

School visited by Messrs. Knight & Boyd. Two new scholars, one in Standard V & one in Standard III this morning

There is a new cookery teacher this morning as Miss Howe is unwell.

The attendance for the week has been very good, the average being 127. Something must be done for the two children Emma Martin & Sarah Smith. They are really not fit to come to school, but it is not their fault.

Attendance rather poor this morning, as the weather was unfavourable. Florence Clarke (Standard V) has Typhoid Fever. Her sister died of it a few weeks since.

Miss Howe has not yet recovered so a new cookery teacher has been here today. The attendance this afternoon is 145. Mr. Knight & Mr. Boyd visited the school on Monday & Mr. Knight this afternoon.

The attendance this afternoon was 144.

Mr. Claridge visited the school this afternoon.

The attendance has been very good throughout the week (unless on Monday morning).the average is 132.

Register examined and found correct. D.P. Boyd.

School visited by Messrs. Boyd & Claridge. Attendance very good.

Miss Howe resumed her duties as Cookery Teacher today after an absence of two weeks, her place having been supplied by other Cookery teachers during her absence. She asked that new exercise books might be given to the girls to copy out in ink recipes to be shown at the annual exam.

The attendance was very poor today owing to the weather. Attendance in the morning 105, afternoon 118. School visited by Mr. Knight.

School visited by Mr. Knight. Attendance very good today. Morning 142, afternoon 132. Average for the week 128.7. The work throughout the school shows a decided improvement, especially the Sewing. As a rule the girls sew very badly. The ordinary stitches are badly made owing no doubt to the trade engaged in by them.

I examined Standard II in the morning & Standard I in the afternoon. I found the work in Standard II greatly improved & Standard I work very nicely done. Mr. Knight visited the school this afternoon. Girls took Cookery as usual.

Mr. .Knight visited the school today.

There have been several cases of illness in school during the week, two in the first class – Emma Cooper & Florence Clarke. Attendance for the week is 127.

Mr. Knight visited the school today. The attendance in the morning was very good. A new scholar was admitted in Standard II from the National School.

Girls took Cookery as usual today.

I examined Standards II, IV,V & VI today. The work was well done throughout particularly the arithmetic. The papers were well done.

The school was closed today for Good Friday and Easter Monday. Average for week 127.5

School re-opened today after two days holiday. A holiday was given in the afternoon as the room was required. Cookery was not taken today as Miss Howe, the Cookery Teacher, has a holiday for ten days.

The attendance very poor both yesterday and today owing, no doubt, to the other schools having a holiday. Emily Hodson in Standard III has been marked left on the register as she has left the district.

A holiday was given again this afternoon. Sawyer’s Circus came through the village about 2 o’clock when the children should have been coming to school. They followed the Circus to Higham Ferrers and it was useless opening school with a few.

The attendance was rather better today particularly in the afternoon. The work in the Upper Standards was well done today. Mr. Knight visited the school and saw the paper work done by the children from Standard III upwards the last time I examined them. He said the work was well done.

The average attendance for the week is 113.5

Mr. Knight visited the school today. Cookery was taken this afternoon, as well as on Tuesday, in order to get as many girls as possible to make their 20 attendances. The same thing will be done next week.

Cookery taken as usual.

Examined all the Standards in the morning – Standard II & V answered 100% in arithmetic. The writing in Standard I was rather poor, but there is a decided improvement in the setting down of the work throughout the school.

Nellie Compton, Alice Cooke & Nellie Whitehead (all in Standard IV) are perfectly hopeless in their work. They really don’t seem to know Standard I work. Julia Scholes in Standard III is the same and several in Standard I & II are very backward. Of course the Cookery Lesson is extra this year and the illness which has been so prevalent will tell very much on the quality of the work done this year.

Mr. Knight visited the school today.

Several new scholars have been admitted or re-admitted this week. The attendance has been very poor this week, the average for the week being 132.9

The attendance was rather poor in the morning 120 being present but good in the afternoon 139 being present. Cookery was taken gain this afternoon and will be taken tomorrow in order to make up for attendances for as many as possible. Mr. Boyd visited the school in the morning and Mr. Knight in the afternoon. Standard IV took sewing all afternoon, as they are rather behind in it. Several girls were re-admitted today.

The girls took Cookery today as usual. Most of the girls have made their attendances.

Standard IV and upwards did their grammar on paper yesterday and today. The grammar in the 1^st class was very well done, but not so well in Standard IV.

Several girls in the Upper Standards have been away this week through illness. The average attendance this week throughout the school is however good -131.

Emma Martin & Sarah Smith in Standard I have been marked left as they make no effort whatever to attend. They have been absent for several weeks now.

Cookery was taken again this afternoon. The cookery lessons are now finished, 39 girls have made 20 attendances instead of 48, as the attendance of some of the girls attending the school is so very irregular. Several have made 16, some even as low as 7 & 9 and one or two have made 3. The attendance this afternoon was not as good as usual – a great many girls being absent on account of the foundation stone of the “New C…. Chapel Schools being laid.

I have this day examined the registers and found them correct. David P. Boyd.

Mr. Boyd visited the school on Wednesday 30^th & checked the registers and fees.

The registers for 1890/91 were begun today.

The average attendance for the year is not so good as last owing to measles and influenza which were very prevalent during the second and third quarters of the school year.

The attendance was good, this afternoon, but poor in the morning. I examined Standard I & II in their recitation for the year and they did very well.

Examined from Standard III upwards both morning and afternoon. The work was very creditably done throughout. Mr. Knight visited the school in the afternoon and looked at the work done.

The specimens of needlework done this afternoon from Standard III and upwards were excellent.

Average attendance for week is 134.

Several girls came back today who have been absent all week through sickness. The attendance in the morning was 147. The sewing in the afternoon was well done, most of the girls doing two specimens in the time.

The girls in Standard IV upwards were examined in grammar (on paper) and most of the work was nicely done. Violet Carter came this afternoon as was now anxious to be examined, although not fit to be at school. Florence Clarke also has been attending school for the last few days after an absence of 13 or 14 weeks. She is rather behind in her work, but very anxious to pass.

All the girls to be examined turned up today except Violet Carter & Louise Chettle who are both ill.

 Recitations for year ending April 30^th 1891

Standards V,VI & VII “The Execution of Montrise”

Standard IV “Mary Queen of Scots.”

Standard III “Barbara Fritchie”

Standard II “The Ambitious Weed”

Standard I “The Foolish Mouse.”

Songs for 1890

Division I (Standard I & II)

“Hunting Song”, “Rosy Morn” and “No,no,no.”

Division II (Standards III,IV,V, & VI)

“Murmur Gentle Lyre”, “Autumn Winds”, “The Sailor Boy”, “The Echo”, “The Foolish traveller”, “Star of Peace” “Winter King”, “Hoary Frost.”

The last three are taken by both Division I & II.

List of Recitations for Year Ending April 30^th 1890

Standard I “Little Birds sleep sweetly.”

Standard II “A Night with a Wolf.”

Standard III “The Bridge”

Standard IV “The Cloud”

Standard V & VI “The Combat” (Scott’s “Lady of the Lake.”)

School exams held on 15^th & 16^th May by Mr. Varnon on the 15^th and by Mr. Cartwright on the 16^th.

Exam began on the 15^th qt 9.15 and finished at 2.15 and on Friday from about 10.30 to 12.30. Holiday given in the afternoon on both days.

Attendance very poor today as so many girls came last week 7 times and are required to make it up this week. Mr. Boyd visited the school this morning and Mr. Mason & Mr. Knight in the afternoon. Messrs. Knight, Denton & Boyd were present at different times during the examination. Four new girls were admitted today in Standard I.

The schedules for the year ending April 30^th 1890 were returned this morning. The percentage of passes is a little over 96. There were 151 children examined, more than the previous year. There were 2 failures in Reading. One of the girls is in Standard II and is 13 years of age and the other is very nervous. The Writing is good throughout. This is the first year that composition was taken by the Upper Standards at the exam. In previous years dictation was taken. It has been very hard work to get them up in composition as it was not taken on paper this year until I came in December. The arithmetic in Standard III is not quite so good as it might have been but this is the first year that Miss Jacques has had Standard work. She will be better used to it next year. The change from an Infant Room to a Senior Room is great and it requires a considerable time to get used to the work. this is the first year that Standard VI has answered 100%, their answering during previous years being 1889 = 88.8% and 1888 = 93.3%

Closed this morning for the Whitsuntide Holidays. Attendance very poor al week. Gave certificates today to the children who passed in everything at the examination. 133 were given.

School began again today. Fifteen girls were sent up from the Infant Room. One of them, Maud Desborough has been absent for a considerable time, so is very far behind. In addition there were 11 new scholars admitted, principally from the National School. There are now 200 children on the register but several names will be marked off during the week as several girls have either left Rushden or gone full time. Mabel Clipson has left Rushden.

I took Standard IV & upwards for grammar, & Standard IV for arithmetic. Standard IV began their recitation for the year “Mary Queen of Scots” in the afternoon.

I took from Standard III upwards for a model lesson on Geography. Miss Jacques & Annie Lads looked on during the lesson. Annie Ladds will give a criticism lesson next Wednesday & Miss Jacques the following week. The children have all begun their work for the year & seem to be getting on very nicely.

I took the first lesson on Composition with Standard V this morning. Standard VI had an essay to do on the examination. First lesson in analysis taken with Standard V.

Average attendance for the week is 138.6

Six more children were admitted this morning. Number present 158. Holiday given in the afternoon on account of a fete in the neighbourhood. Mr Knight visited the school this morning.

Standard V had a lesson in composition on the black board this morning. In the afternoon the words of a new song were taken instead of recitation and the singing was taken during the last lesson.

Annie Ladds gave a criticism lesson to Standard III to Standard VII on “Salt”. Miss Jacques & I criticised her mode of teaching. She did fairly well but was very nervous. I told her of her faults afterwards. Standard V to VIII are getting on very well with their analysis. The work altogether seems to be progressing well and the attendance is good. There were 160 present this morning, and 157 this afternoon. Ellen Abrahams in Standard III has gone to live in Wellingborough. Two children have come up from Moor Road.

The average attendance for the week is 153.3. About a dozen girls have begun their exam knitting & sewing in the upper standards & nearly all Standard I

142 present this morning. Mr. Knight & Mr. Boyd visited the school. Holiday given in the afternoon on account of a treat in the neighbourhood. 3 new children were Admitted this morning, 2 in Standard III & one in Standard I.

Two more children admitted this morning, one in Standard IV & one in Standard I. Mr. Knight visited the school this morning, there were 155 children present.

I gave a model lesson today on Norway & Sweden to Standard III & upwards.

School report received today.

I was absent on Friday through illness.

I gave a model lesson today on France to Standard III & upwards

The children & teachers had their photos taken today.

Mr. Knight visited the school this morning. I taught long & short division (Compound) to Standard IV this morning. Standard V & Upwards had a lesson in domestic economy on “Clothing” especially silk, fur & leather. Average attendance for the week is 145.8

Only 115 present this morning owing to the very severe weather. A girl, Kate Compton, admitted in Standard II from the National School. She has been examined in Standard II there and failed in two subjects.

Evelyn  Banks just returned after an absence of six weeks.

Visit Art.21. W. Varnon.

I gave a lesson on the different kinds of sentences to Standard V,VI & VII, also a model essay on “More Haste, Less Speed” to Standard VI & VII

The 1^st class took reading from their poetry books instead of an object lesson this morning.

I took grammar with Standard IV the first lesson, and with Standard V to VII the second lesson. Attendance rather poor this morning owing to the wet morning.

Mr. Knight paid a visit this morning.

Average attendance for the week is 138.5

Holiday from July 7^th owing to the “Band of Hope” trip. Attendance rather poor this morning , only 120 being present. I took a first lesson in G.C.M. with Standard V

I gave a lesson to Standard III & upwards on “Lord Clive.” Miss Jacques & Annie Ladds looking on.

The girls in Standard V & upwards had their usual lesson in domestic economy. The lesson was on “Digestion.” Average attendance for the week is 130.3.

A half holiday was given today on account of a school treat being held in the neighbourhood.

I took from Standard IV upwards for a lesson on “Sentences” this morning, from Standard V upwards on “Letter Writing” the second lesson.

Annie Ladds gave a criticism lesson on “Rain.” The lesson was very nicely given & illustrated throughout with such illustrations as a sponge filled with cold water, a kettle of boiling water etc. From 4o’clock to 5 pm a lecture on “Temperance” was given by Mr. Finnemore & certificates were offered by him to the girls who should write good essays on the  subject matter of the lesson given.

I took from Standard IV upwards for a grammar lesson on “Case.” Annie Ladds took the time for private study.

Average attendance for the week is 139.5. Several girls who are only 10 or 11 years of age have gone full time.

Copy of report for Year Ending April 30^th 1890

Average attendance 120.7

Added under article 126 10.5

Average attendance on which the grant is payable 131.

Number presented 151. Total of passes 435. =96%

Reading 149, Writing 146, Arithmetic 140

Total Grant £136/5/6

Girls’ school.

“Discipline is good as is possible in such a crowded room, but more class room accommodation is required. The girls have passed a very good examination in reading, writing and spelling and very much of the arithmetic deserves praise. The third Standard should write without double lined paper. The first and second Standards should not count on their finger. Mental Arithmetic is good, especially in the third standard. Singing by note and musical drill are both good. Needlework is nicely done. There should be no scribbling on the doors of the offices.

Annie Ladds has passed fairly, but should attend to Geography and Music.

Staff at commencement of year.

Head Teacher M. Law

Certificated Assistant Mary Elstow.

Ex. P.T. Jane Jacques

Second Near P.T. Annie Ladds

Half time monitresses- Louisa Sargent & Annie Elstow.

James Heygate Clerk of the Board.

Mr. Knight & Mr. Boyd visited the school today.

I have this day examined the register and found them correct. Sam Knight Chairman of School Board.

I asked today for a month’s holiday.