School re-opened after the Easter Holidays. Staff all present. School year 1915-16 ended. Admitted 37 girls and 33 boys. No. on roll on 1^st day of school Year 1916-1917 = 386

Staffing arrangements for New School Year

Received notice that Rose Tuffrey, having satisfactorily completed the Probationer Entrance Examination is to report for duty at the National School on Wednesday next.

Marion Bugby commenced her teaching test in connection with the Probationer Entrance Examination 1916 at this school.

The Shakespeare Tercentenary was celebrated during the day. At the morning assembly the headmaster gave an address of a simple character on “Shakespeare: the Man.” All the lessons throughout the day were based on Shakespeare topics. In the afternoon the upper standards assembled in the hall and songs from Shakespeare were sung, selections were recited from “Richard II” by Rose Knight and Rose Tuffrey and Gladys Shortland dramatically rendered the… of Brutus and Cassius from Julius Caesar. The proceedings terminated with a suitable hymn and prayer.

The previous day (Tuesday) Mr. Brightwell again attended at Irthlingborough Manual Centre and Miss M. Ette officiated in his place. Now that the school has been re-organised for the New School Year this arrangement is rendered very unsatisfactory.

Completed Form IX; attendance reward list and various other annual returns and forwarded the same to the clerk (Mr Mantle)

Mabel Wooding takes the A Scholarship Examination in the morning (Saturday) at Wellingborough. The attendance during the week has been well maintained. Percentage attendance 95.1

Average attendance 367.3  No. on roll =386

Stock for half year ending Sept 30^th arrived today.

Average attendance for the week 362.4 no. on roll 387

Mr. D. Elliott of the County Education Offices visited the school.

Average attendance for the week 360.3 no. on roll 385

Miss May Morris absent from duty owing to the death of her brother.

Received notice that the Manual Instruction Class will attend Thursday instead of Mondays in future. Also received notice that the Medical Inspection will take place on Thursday and Friday of next week (1^st and 2^nd June)

Throughout the day the Celebration of Empire Day was carried out. The ordinary lessons were suspended. The School Flag was raised to the accompaniment of the Empire Hymn “Unfurl the Empire Standard”. Songs and address were given during the day. On the drawing lesson the children painted the “Union Jack.” At the end of the day the hymn “God bless our Native Land” was taken followed by prayers. The Songs of the Allies terminated the proceedings.

The flag was raised today to celebrate Queen Mary’s birthday. Average attendance for the week = 363.3. No. on roll 384. Hubert Perkins and Alfred Charles Rose left school today.

Miss May Morris resumed school duties this morning after a week’s absence. Marion Bugby having completed her probationary period of teaching here on Friday has returned to school, viz. The County High School, Wellingborough. The Report on her work was forwarded to the County Education Offices today.

Miss M. Keers, the school Medical Officer attended today to inspect children who are especially defective in any particular.

Dr. Keers, completed her inspection today. The cases taken numbered 19 girls and 31 boys. Average attendance for the whole week 359.5 no. on roll 382

The Prince of Wales’ birthday 23^rd June and the King’s Birthday June 3^rd are occasions on which the school flag is hoisted. This year the King’s birthday being on Saturday when the school was not open, the celebration will be held over with June 22^nd, the anniversary of H.M. Coronation.

Received Med. Inspection cards, M.I. 10 cards and forms M.I. sp 2 8 sps.

School closed at noon today for the Whitsuntide holiday. Friday June 9^th to Monday June 19^th 1916.

School re-opened after the Whitsuntide vacation with an attendance of 363. No. on roll 380. Staff all present. Retained form M.I. sp3 according to instructions.

Returned E. Arnold’s invoice for stationary to County Education Office, Northampton.

School flag raised to celebrate anniversary of the King’s Coronation. Mr. B. Vorley of the School Managers’ Committee visited the school during the afternoon sessions.

Today the school flag is flying again in honour of the Prince of Wales’ birthday. Elsie Chambers (Standard Ex.VII) and Harold Garley (St. VI) left school today. Average attendance for the week 356.7 No. on roll 380

Kosovo Day celebrated in school. Serbian History and Geography taught throughout the day. A collection realised £1

Miss Underwood absent from school due to the severe illness of her mother.

Miss Gadsby absent from school today, attending her sister’s funeral.

School met at 1.30 this afternoon as a great number of children wished to attend the “Young Leaguers” garden party at 4pm. Miss Gadsby returned to school in the morning.

Average attendance for the week 350.9. No. on roll 378

Miss Underwood resumed duties after a week’s absence. Forwarded needlework sales (£9-8-9) to County Accountant. Received a letter from the secretary County Education Offices, Northampton stating that Miss Edith M. Tall is now re-organised as an Uncertificated Teacher, schedule 1(c) of the code.

Selected children to form the New Cookery and Woodwork classes which begin in September, and forwarded the names to the County Education Offices. Miss Underwood absent from school due to severe illness of her mother.

Average attendance for the week 353.7 no. on roll 377

J. Walker, Fred Smart (Stand Ex. VII) and James Gadsby (Standard VI) left school during the weekend. Miss Underwood resumed duties this morning (Monday). Miss E.M. Tall absent during the afternoon session of today, taking part of the English section in the Oxford Senior Local Exam.

Miss Tall absent this afternoon, attending the Oxford Senior Local Examination.

Miss Tall absent in the afternoon for exam stated above. The Pupil Teacher Ernest Brewer has been absent for a like reason since July 11^th i.e. Thursday 13^th, Tuesday 18^th and Thursday 20^th, the days on which he attends this school.

Yesterday an unfortunate accident befell Lily Minney in the playground during the dinner interval. She stumbled and fell forward on her face, seriously injuring her mouth and teeth. She is mentally defective and uncertain in her movements.

The attendance this week has been good, the percentage attendance 95.7 being the highest for many months. Average attendance for the week 358 no. on roll 374

Miss Underwood is absent again owing to the illness of her mother.

Average attendance for the week 351.7 no. on roll 373. Renee Rial has been assisting in  the school during the past few days.

Miss Underwood resumed duties today. Her mother died early this morning.

At 1.55pm this afternoon an unfortunate accident happened to James Frisby. He was marching through the cloakroom when he slipped and fell. His right arm passed between a double row of pipes in connection with the heating apparatus and in withdrawing carelessly by a jerk the leverage caused the upper arm to break. The head teacher and Mr. Brightwell rendered First Aid and the latter delivered him over to the care of his parents.

During the afternoon session the school was assembled in the hall and the managers attended for the purpose of making a presentation to the brothers William and Henry Dunkley in recognition of their 8 years perfect attendance record. Mr. J. Colson addressed the school and Mr. James Claridge presented the boys with a book. The books were “Standard Works on Gardening” chosen by the boys. Mr. B. Vorley, Mr. E. Freeman and Mr. W. Chettle also attended and spoke of the encouraging example such performances of the Brothers Dunkley was to the whole school.

School closed at 4pm today for the Midsummer Vacation Aug 3^rd (Thurs) 1916 to Monday Sept 4^th 1916

School re-opened after the Midsummer Holidays with an attendance of 326. No. on roll 365. Staff all present viz. W.W. Rial Headmaster, Misses C.H. Gadsby, M.M. Underwood, N.L. Groome, May Morris and E.M. Tall and Messrs. C.L. Brightwell and A.W. Morris.

During the holidays the following children left school:-

Standard Ex. VII Hilda Lack, Rose Tuffrey, Rose Knight

Standard VII Frank Webb, Albert Hewitt.

Standard VI George Mead, Reggie Mead, Jack Scroxton, William Lovell.

Admitted Gwendoline Mary Brightwell and Elsie Ellen Graves.

Received glasses for Annie Morris, George Smith and Henry Dunkley. Forwarded money for above also for Doris Hardy to Northampton (Total 11/6)

Sydney E. Smith commenced duties as a pupil teacher. His appointment dates from the 1st August. He will attend school for two days a week, namely Wednesdays and Fridays.

Wilfred Lack commenced duties as a pupil teacher though notice of appointment has not been received.

Average attendance for the week 325.8 no. on roll 362. The attendance is far from satisfactory. The poor attendance is due to sickness and also to children  still being away on holiday.

Average attendance for the week 322.5 no. on roll 360. No improvement in attendance is yet apparent. Ernest Lyne and Harry James (Standard VII, Lawrence O’Shea (Standard VI) and Doris King (Standard IV) left school to begin work.

School closed at the end of the afternoon session for the usual Feast Holiday, namely Monday and Tuesday following.

School resumed after the Feast Holiday. Received notice that the appointment of Wilfred Lack as Pupil Teacher is confirmed. “The War Savings Subscription Fund” which was begun after the Midsummer vacation has made good progress. Already £18-12-4 has been subscribed in the department.

The time for reassembling for the afternoon session from today will be 1.30 instead of 2 o’clock. This is partly owing to difficulties in connection with the lighting restrictions and partly owing to war-economy. The time for afternoon dismissal will be 4pm for the present.

Fire Drill was practised in the morning as it is deemed expedient for every preparation to be made in the event of a Zeppelin raid.

The Half-yearly stock arrived at the end of the afternoon session. The attendance during the present week has been the best for several months. Average attendance 334.6 no. on roll 355.

Mr. F. Northrop H.M.I. visited the school. He spent the day inspecting the work of various classes. During the morning session 11.30-12 Trafalgar Day was celebrated. The children were assembled in the hall , an address was given by the Head Teacher  and songs of an appropriate character were sung.

Verified registers J.Colson

Mr. B. Vorley visited the school

Average attendance for the week 320.4 no on roll 347

Presentation of school attendance medals took place in the Hall. Mr. & Mrs. Vorley attended and Mr. Vorley addressed the school, Mrs. Vorley presented the medals.

The medals presented were:-

5 white medals (2 years) Frances Corby, Fred Drage, Walter Hill, Hilda Lacy, Jessie Parker.

1 gilt medal (3 years) Grace Norris

3 bronze medals (4 years) Robert Hollis, Frank Norris, Herbert Packwood

1 Silver medal (4 years) Arnold Harbour

2 Silver bars (8 years) Henry Dunkley, William Dunkley.

Average attendance for the week 324 and no. on roll 342

Snowy weather during the week end and a continuance of the same conditions on the Monday morning spoiled the good attendance which had been established the previous week. There were 53 children absent.

2^nd term examinations begun. The Reading and Recitation is being held in the various standards.

Commenced examination in Written Work and Composition, Dictation and Penmanship in the morning and Drawing taken in the afternoon.

Examined in the subjects of Arithmetic in the morning and Painting in the afternoon.

Examination given in Object Drawing in the afternoon. During the week end requests were despatched to various trading firms for the Xmas gifts to children.

Mr. C.L. Brightwell absent. He is taking the Manual Class at Higham Ferrers Centre in the absence of the regular teacher. Mr. Brightwell present in the afternoon.

Miss N.L. Groom absent from school in the afternoon due to illness.

Completed examination of school

Mr. Brightwell is again doing duty at  Higham Ferrers and Miss M. Chettle is doing temporary duty in his place.

Miss N.L. Groome resumed duties after 4 days absence from school.

During the afternoon a Christmas Concert was given in the Hall to the parents of the children. Messrs. F. Corby and B. Vorley, school managers, were present. A cantata “Santa Claus is Coming”, an action song, country dances and sketches made up the programme which was greatly appreciated by the visitors.

The children were given their Xmas gifts, then assemble in the Hall and the same concert which was given in the afternoon previously was performed for the children who much enjoyed it. After the termination of the concert, school was dismisses for the Christmas holidays. Friday 22^nd December 1916 to Monday 8^th January 1917

School re-opened after the Christmas Holidays. Staff all present. No. on roll 333 no. present 315.

Bernard Spicer, Jack Ginns, Dorothy Pettitt, W. Taylor, Norman Shortland, Ron Cox, James Harbour, Mabel Sanders, Doris James have all left school since the beginning of the New Year. Average attendance for the week 301.2

Forwarded gardening sales account (£4-11-11) to County Accountant (Mr. Charles Cooper.)

Verified registers J. Colson.

Mr. Brightwell attended at the Manual Centre, Higham Ferrers as on previous Wednesday mornings.

Mr. B. Vorley paid a visit during the afternoon session.

Mr. Brightwell attended the Manual Centre at Higham Ferrers as on previous occasions. Mr. Huke reported at school this morning on his being discharged from the Army.

Mr. Brightwell absent owing to a military appointment and Mr. Huke doing duties in his stead. Received notice that the woodwork class is to attend the Manual Centre in Tuesday instead of Thursday until further notice.

Mr. Huke who should have commenced duties today is having a holiday, he having made an arrangement to exchange Friday for Monday with Mr. Brightwell. Mr. Brightwell is therefore present today and this will be his last day in school, previous to joining the Army on Thursday 1^st February.

Mr. Ernest T. Huke commenced duties today in the place of Mr. E.L. Brightwell who as stated above is joining H.M. Army.

An accident occurred in the boys’ playground this morning, before school hours (8.40am) A boy, Leonard Norris, was sliding and fell knocking his forehead on the edge of the wall buttress. He cut his brow deeply. A pupil teacher took him to his doctor, who put a stitch in the rent and otherwise dressed it.

The severe weather which has continued during the past four weeks is responsible for much illness among the children. Coughs and colds have greatly affected school attendance. Average attendance for the week 291.6 , no. on the roll 320.

Miss M.M. Underwood absent from school due to illness.

Despatched order for garden requisites to Messrs. Perkins of Northampton and to Messrs. Daniels of Norwich.

Miss M. M. Underwood resumed duties this morning.

Miss E.M. Tall absent in the afternoon due to illness. Mr. B. Vorley visited the school in the afternoon.

Mr. J. Turnbull (Health and Temperance Lecturer) gave a lesson in the morning to Standards V, VI & VII (10-10.50) and in the afternoon a similar lesson to Standards IVA & IVB on “Health and Temperance.” This is the first of a series of four weekly visits. 

Forwarded the school letting money £2-4-0 to the County Accountant Northampton. Mr. Turnbull attended morning and afternoon.

Mr. Turnbull attended as before and gave his 3^rd lesson. Mr. John Claridge visited the school during the morning.

Registration time was altered so as to begin at 9.05am in order to allow of 2 hours secular instruction to take place by 11.05am. This was done to allow the whole school to pay a visit to  the local Theatre and witness a film dealing with the military performances of our troops and the “Tanks  on the Ancre.” [Final phase of the Battle of the Somme] School met in the afternoon at 1.45pm and was closed at 4.15pm as the children did not leave the Theatre until a quarter to one o’clock.

A gardening lesson was taken morning and afternoon and an endeavour to recover the lost ground was made, the frosts of January and February having presented us getting on with the work in the garden.

Mr. Turnbull again attended and gave two lantern demonstrations to illustrate the three lectures already given and to revise the same. The first lecture to standards V,VI,VII was from 10.5 – 10.50am and the 2^nd lecture to standards IVA & IVB was from 11.0-11.45am. The children of the above standards were assembled in the Hall when Mr. J. Claridge presented the book prizes to the essay winners in each class, namely Alice Pendred and Doris Neal (Standard V), Dennis Parker (Standard VI) John Rockingham (Standard V)  Winnie Page and Marjorie Bridgment (Standard IVA) and Charles Carter (Standard IVB). Mrs. James Jaques presented the certificates to the 131 competitors who had secured an average of 60% marks (no. who competed 187). Mr. B. Vorley, Mr. J. Turnbull and a visitor from London were present in addition to the foregoing.

Mr. F. Northrop visited the school and inspected the work of the various classes during the morning and afternoon sessions. This was the second visit of H.M.I. during the present school year, the previous one being on the 23^rd October 1916. Completed the requisition and forwarded to the Clerk, also forwarded Applications for Increase of Salary of members of the staff eligible.

Mr. Huke absent from school on account of personal illness.

Mr. Huke resumed duties this morning.

Miss M.M. Underwood absent from school today. It appears that Miss Underwood was leaving her home in Yardley Hastings to walk to Castle Ashby station, when during a snow storm (6.30am) she slipped on the ice covered road and broke her leg. This, of course, means some 2 or 3 months absence.

The school was examined today in Composition, Dictation and Handwriting. The majority of the classes have already been examined in Reading and Recitation.

School closed at non today for the Easter Holiday, Thursday 5^th April to Monday 16^th April 1917

School re-opened after the Easter Vacation, the attendance numbering 292 and the no. on roll 316. With the exception of Miss M. Underwood mentioned on the previous page as having sustained a serious accident, the staff was present and fully represented.

Miss Doris Gladys Penman began duties here this morning as a supply teacher during Miss Underwood’s absence, the salary to be at the rate of 5/6 per actual days teaching.

Completed and forwarded to Education Office, Northampton Form 43 S.S.

Verified registers. J. Colson.

Mr. B.W. Sanders of the School Management committee visited the school in the afternoon session.

Beginning of the New School Year 1917-1918

Admitted from the Infant Department 42 boys and 37 girls. No. on roll on the 1st day of New School Year 389

Staffing arrangements for the School Year

In the continued absence of Miss Underwood her place in the above staffing arrangement is being temporarily filled by Mrs. Dora Gladys Penman.

The greater part of the “Stock” for the 1^st half of the school year arrived this morning. Completed Form ix and other returns and forwarded the same to Mr. Mantle.

Average attendance for school year 1916 – 1917 – 320.2

Mr. J. Claridge visited the school in the morning session.

Average attendance for the week 365.1 no. on roll 388

Mr. Claridge again paid a short visit.

Average attendance for the week 362.9 no. on roll 387

Horace Stapleton (ExVII), Fred Brudenell (Standard VII) and Horace Barton (Standard V) leave school today.

Empire Day was celebrated in accordance with instructions in “Circular 261 (C.) 6^th issue” from the County Education Office and in a manner befitting the serious times. Special emphasis was laid upon the taking of the Food Pledge.

Forwarded Needlework Account to Mr. Mantle for the past years work (1916-1917) School closed at noon today for the Whitsuntide Vacation Friday 25^th May to Monday 4^th June 1917.

School re-opened after the Whitsuntide Holiday. Staff all present. No. of children present 359, no. on roll 384

Mr. T. Corby and Rev. Brookshank (Chesham) visited the school during the morning session.

Mr. B. Vorley visited the school this afternoon.

Mr. E. Freeman, school manager visited the school today.

Gladys Shortland received notification that the result of the examination for a probationership was so far successful as to warrant her having a teaching trial for a month at the Newton Road School, commencing Monday 9^th July.

Constance Bennett, Ethel M. Harris and Harriet Bayes began a probationary period of teaching in this school, preparatory to being accepted as a suitable candidate for the teacher probationership.

As a precautionary measure Fire Drill was practised this morning.

Fire drill was again practised with a view to securing more precision.

Received notice that Dennis William Parker had been successful in securing a County Scholarship. Forwarded to County Accountant Northampton the needlework sales receipt (£8-2-3)

Miss Margaret M. Underwood attended school today after her long absence owing to a fractured leg.

Mrs. Dora Penman ceased duties here today having been temporarily employed in Miss Underwood’s absence. Mr. C.I. Brewer ceased duties owing to military service.

Verified registers

M D. Elliott of the County Education Offices visited the school and examined the 3 candidates for probationership.

Completed the term examinations. Reports on probationers forwarded to Northampton. School closed at the end of the afternoon session for the Midsummer Vacation: Thursday 2^nd August to Monday 3^rd Sept 1917

School re-assembled after the Midsummer Holidays with an attendance of 345 no. on roll 374. Staff all present; viz W.W. Rich, E. Huke, A.E. Morris, and Misses C.H. Gadsby, M.M. Underwood, N.L. Groome, M. Morris and E. Tall.

During the holidays 6 boys and one girl left school. Two of these are going to Secondary schools having gained scholarships, namely Kate Addison and Dennis Panter. Two boys and one girl are admitted today.

The school hours were altered today owing to a visit from a “Wild West Show” termed “Broncho Bill.” The morning session was from 9am to 11.30am and the afternoon session from 1pm to 3 pm.

School closed at the end of the afternoon session for the usual Feast Holiday, Monday and Tuesday of next week.

School re-opened after the holiday. Staff all present.

Mr. E.T. Huke absent. He is taking Stanwick School in hand, owing to the absence of the headmaster (Mr. G. French) who has suffered the loss of his son, John Lawson French (killed in France.) Lieu. French was a member of this staff before going to college. He enlisted in the army whilst at college.

Mr. Huke resumed duties but Miss M. Underwood is absent due to illness. Mr. F. Northrop H.M.I. of schools, visited this school spent the day inspecting the work going on.

The attendance this week has not been satisfactory. It may be some absences are due to illness owing to the cold and damp weather, but there are undoubted cases of carelessness and neglect in regard to school attendance. Average for the week 332 no. on books 363

Mr. B. Vorley visited the school during the afternoon session.

The time for re-assembling for the afternoon session has been changed from 2pm to 1.30pm. The school will therefore be dismissed at 4pm instead of 4.30pm. This is due to the lighting restrictions and also to the war economy.

Miss Underwood resumed duties this afternoon. We have had a very good attendance today 347 present out of a total of 339.

Half yearly stock arrived today.

The attendance this week has been very satisfactory. Average attendance 342, on. on the roll 359

Commenced examination of Second Term in Reading and Recitation.

Examination suspended for the present owing to illness of head teacher and preparation for Medical Inspection of children of 12 years of age and upwards.

Miss May Morris absent from school owing to her marriage to Mr. C.W. Levy, a former teacher in this school and now a Sapper in the R.E. during the war.

Dr. Keers, medical officer of L.E.A. commenced her examination of the children.

The Medical Examination of children concluded. The number of children examined by Dr. Keers was as follows: 43 girls and 57 boys; total 100 children. The arrangements worked well and gave every satisfaction.

Received a letter from Mr. Scott, Headmaster of Kettering Grammar School, reporting the Pupil Teacher, Sydney E. Smith, for being absent on Friday Nov. 30^th in the morning without permission and asking for this absence to be recorded on Salary Sheet.

The attendance during the last few weeks has been a great improvement on the corresponding period of last year. This is partly due to the favourable weather experienced so far.

Average for week ending 7^th Dec = 327.1 no. on roll 350.

Mrs. Levy (nee Morris) resumed duties this morning.

Miss Edith M. Tall absent from duties owing to illness.

Examined the various classes in Arithmetic, Dictation and Composition.

Miss Tall resumed duties after a short illness.

A concert programme was arranged for the afternoon session and the parents of the children were given an invitation to attend. There was a good attendance of parents and the Chairman of the School Managers, Mr. J. Colson, was also present.

The Xmas gifts were distributed and the children then assembled in the hall. The concert programme of the previous day was then repeated for the benefit of the children. After the concert the children were addressed by the Headmaster. The school was then dismissed for the Christmas Holidays, Friday 21^st Dec 1917 to Monday 7^th Jan 1918.

School re-opened after the Christmas Holidays. Staff all present no. on roll 335, no. present 313. During the holidays the following scholars have left school; Cecilia Allen, James Frisby, Frank Skellham, Reginald Cave, Frank Perkins, William Steele (Standard (VII); Millie Surridge, Doris Bodman, John Rockingham, Robert Hollis (Standard VI);Robert Fuller, Cyril Robinson (Standard V) Winnie Tyman, Evelyn Hammond (Standard IV)

Owing to the severe weather the attendance is considerably affected, many children suffering from very severe colds.

There has been a very heavy fall of snow. The number of children present on opening school this morning was 177 out of a total of 336. It was decided to keep the children until playtime and then close the school for the day.

There is no improvement in the weather, more snow having fallen, and there is apparently more to come. The number present this morning was less than yesterday, being only 155. Owing to the outlook for tomorrow the Chairman of the Managers decided to close the schools of the town for the rest of the week.

School resumed work after the temporary closure on account of the weather. Miss E.M. Tall absent from duty, superintending household duties during her mother’s illness.

Verified register. J. Colson. In the morning session Mr. H. Hartley, H.M.I. and Mr. Millican H.M.I. visited the school and inspected the work going on. The inspection was continued in the afternoon session by Mr. Millican.

The attendance during the past week has been unsatisfactory. Two matinees on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons seriously affected the attendance but there is much sickness and ill heath among the children. Average attendance for the week 290.5, no. on the roll 332

There was only a slight improvement in attendance this week. Average attendance 297.3, no. on roll 332

Miss E.M. Tall resumed duties after a fortnight’s absence. On Thursday last, 31^st January, Dr. Harris attended at the School Clinic and examined the eyes of a number of children

Mr. B. Vorley visited the school in the afternoon.

Practice was given in Fire Drill this morning.

Mr. J. Claridge visited the school during the afternoon session.

Completed requisition for ensuring half year and forwarded to Mr. Mantle.

The school is closed today until Monday next (15^th) as the teaching staff is to be employed doing clerical work in connection with the Rationing Scheme.

School re-opened today (Monday) after the closure for the Rationing Scheme mentioned above.

School closed at noon today for the Easter Holidays from Thursday 28^th March 1918 to Monday 8^th April 1918

School re-opened after the Easter vacation. No. of children present 291, no. of children on books 316. Staff all present with the exception of Miss N.L. Groome who is absent through illness.

Miss Groome resumed school duties in the afternoon.

Commenced examining the whole of the school in Reading and Recitation

Examined the whole of the school in Dictation Composition, and Handwriting.

Examined the various classes in Arithmetic

Verified registers J. Colson.

Beginning of New School Year 1918-1919

Admitted from the Infants Dept 27 girls and 27 boys. No. on roll on last day of school year 1917-1918= 309

Frank Morris left school on the last day of School Year.

No. on roll on 1^st day of School Year 1918-1919 = 362

Staffing arrangements for 1918-1919

Completed Form IX and other returns and forwarded to Mr. Mantle.

Mrs. Levy has ceased duties for some months. She anticipates resuming duty when fully recovered from the effects of a maternity illness. In the meantime there is no teacher to take her place.

Herbert Dunkley left school to commence work. He has an unbroken record of 10 years perfect attendance, which is an achievement of rare occurrence and the first time it has been accomplished in the history of this school so far as I can discover.

The long delayed absence of the attendance awards for year 1916-17 having at last arrived, Messrs J. Colson and J. Claridge attended to make the presentation to the winners of the medals. After an interesting address by Mr. Colson, the medals were presented by Mr. Claridge to the following scholars:-

White Medal (2 years perfect attendance) Elsie Drage, Ada Porter, Elsie Holmes, Beatrice Scroxton, Dennis Okins, Willie Scholes, Richard Wilmott.

Gilt medal (3 years) Fred Drage

Bronze medal (4years) Grace Norris

Silver medal (5 years) Herbert Packwood, Robert Hollis, Frank Norris

Silver Bar (6 years) Arnold, George Harbour

Silver bar (9 years) Henry Dunkley.

Today Empire Day is being commemorated in the usual manner, as the 24^th May recurs in the Whitsuntide Holiday. School closed at noon today for the customary Whitsuntide Holiday from Friday 17^th May to Monday 27^th  May

School re-opened after the Whitsuntide Vacation. Staff all present.

Norman Fletcher, Claude Noble and Florrie Gadsby left school during the holidays.

Admitted the brothers John and Leslie Aubrey whose family have temporarily left Barking London because of the air raids.

The greater part of the Half-Yearly stock arrived at the close of the morning session.

Notified Secretary, Northampton of the celebration of Empire Day on the 17^th May last.

Practised Fire Drill during the morning session.

Admitted the brothers George and Arthur Woodhams during this week from the National School. George Cooper left school to begin work in an office. Average attendance for the week 335.3, no. on the roll 354

The head teacher was absent yesterday. He had been called up for Medical Examination by the Military Authorities.

Average attendance for the week 335.7 no. on roll 353

Mrs. Ida Palmer commenced duties here this morning. Mr. A.W. Morris absent from school today owing to his being medically examined by the Military Authorities.

The head teacher absent on this day, during the morning session, undergoing medical examination with special reference to the eyes. Placed in Grade II by the medical board for military purposes.

Mr. E.J. Huke had to go home early in the morning session owing to personal illness.

Mr. E.J. Huke resumed duties this morning. Mr. B. Vorley of the School Management Committee visited the school in the afternoon session.

Mr. Millican H.M.I. visited the school in the afternoon session.

School closed today as the teaching staff are to be engaged in preparing the Ration Books for issuing to the public.

School closed today in order to complete the work in connection with issuing the Ration Books.

School re-opened today. Mr. Huke absent from school owing to illness.

Mr. Albert William Morris ceases duties here today as tomorrow he has to report himself for Military Service at Northampton. Sydney E. Smith P.T. joined up at the beginning of this month, also Wilfred Lack P.T.

School commenced with three regular members of staff absent namely, Mr. A.W. Morris who is now in the Army, Mr. E. Huke who is still away due to illness and Miss M.M. Underwood who is suffering from influenza.

In the afternoon Mrs. Kathleen May Parker commenced duties here and though an infants teacher she is continuing Mr. Morris’ work with Standard IVA. In consequence of the above staff shortage the work of the school is very much disorganised.

Verified registers J. Colson.

Miss M.M. Underwood resumed school duties after a week’s absence due to illness.

Mrs. Ida Palmer absent from school. She is visiting her husband at Ripon, who is on draft for immediate service at the front.

Miss Renee Rial commenced temporary work here in place of Mrs. Parker absent as above.

Mrs. Parker and Miss Rial ceased duties here. School closed for the Midsummer holiday from Thursday 1^st August to Monday 2^nd September.

School re-opened after the Midsummer Holidays. Staff all present, namely W.W. Rial headteacher, Ernest Huke and Misses E.H. Gadsby, M.M. Underwood, E. Tall, N.L. Groome and Mrs. Levy and I. Palmer. Mrs. Levy and Mr. E. Huke resume duties after a long absence from school. No of children on roll = 343, no. present = 314

School closed today for the usual Feast Holiday, namely Monday and Tuesday Sept 23^rd and 24^th.

School re-opened after the Feast Holiday.

In the afternoon, those children who wished, were allowed to go blackberry gathering, the other children came to school as usual. The registers were not marked for the session.

In the afternoon the proceedings of the previous afternoon were repeated. A total of 310 pounds of blackberries resulted from the undertaking.

Average attendance for the week ending 5^th Oct =308.5, no. on the roll 336

The afternoon session from this date begins at 1.30pm and terminates at 4pm. This arrangement is to assist in saving coal and gas during the present shortage.

During the afternoon arrangements were made for blackberry gathering by the children ; 192½lbs were brought in.

Average attendance for the week 308.5 no on the roll =334

The afternoon session was devoted to gathering blackberries.

Half yearly stationery stock arrived.

Afternoon sessions again devoted to blackberry gathering.

Average attendance for the week 309.3, no. on the roll =334

There is a considerable decline in attendance today due to the prevalence of influenza.

Verified registers J. Colson

When the school met this morning the percentage attendance was less than 60% and under the circumstances it was decided to close the school until further notice.

After a closure of three weeks school re-opened with an attendance of 289, no on the roll 331. There is thus a considerable amount of illness among the children, though a great improvement has taken place. The staff is all present, though one or two members are far from well.

Received notice that the Medical Inspection will commence Tuesday 26^th November

Average attendance for the week ending Nov 22^{nd =} 293.5, no. on roll 329

Dr. Newton attended to medically inspect children who are 12 years of age and any special cases requiring attention.

Medical inspection completed. A considerable number of parents attended their children’s examination. No of children examined = 73 of whom 37 were girls and 36 boys.

Mrs. Levy absent from duty owing to illness. She attended in the morning but the doctor ordered her to stay at home after dinner.

Mrs. Levy still absent, being ill in bed.

Mrs. Levy resumed duties during the afternoon session.

A school concert was given in the evening, consisting of Dances, Recitations, Action Songs and a cantata entitles “Topsy Turvy Xmas”. 80 children gave the programme. The Hall was filled to overflowing with parents. Mr. Colson, Mr. Corby and Mr. Claridge were present. Mr. Colson paid a tribute to work of all connected.

The above programme given to the whole school assembled, after which the school was dismissed for the Xmas Holidays: Friday 20^th December 1918 to Monday 6^th January 1919

School re-opened after the Christmas Holidays with an attendance of 288. No. on roll = 318. Staff all present.

Average attendance for the week – 286. Percentage = 90.1

Verified registers – J. Colson

The attendance was greatly decreased today owing to a heavy fall of snow. There were 201 present, the number on the roll being 315. In the afternoon the attendance reached 236.

During the last three weeks the inclement weather has resulted in the attendance being seriously diminished. Also the fuel shortage affects the attendance by reason of the parents keeping the children from school to fetch coal in small quantities whenever procurable. Mrs. Ida Palmer who has been temporarily teaching at this school ceased duties today.

The classes are being re-arranged owing to the staff being incomplete.

School closed this morning (Thursday) until Monday. Being to the absence of fuel the school cannot be heated.

School re-assembled this morning and the heating apparatus is again in working order but the supply of fuel is small and hence there is considerable anxiety in regard to the near future. Mr. Albert William Morris resumed duties this morning after being absent on War Service since 12th July 1918.

Mr. Morris sent to assist at Stanwick Schools owing to illness of Head Teacher. Mr. E.L. Brightwell came into school to assist, though his army leave had not quite expired.

Mr. A.W. Morris returned to his duties at this school. Mr. E.L. Brightwell legally resumes duty today. He has been absent on War Service since 29^th Jan 1917. Miss N.L. Groome is absent owing to an attack of influenza and in her absence Mr. Brightwell is taking charge of her class (Standard VI)

Mr. E.L. Brightwell ordered by L.E.A. to take charge of the Rothwell National School. Mr. Lucas sent from Rushden Newton Road School to deputise in the place of Mr. Brightwell.

Mr. Mason, School Medical Officer, visited the school.

Mr. Morris absent from school duties this morning. Mr. Lucas absent from school duties here. He has been ordered by L.E.A. to take charge of the school at Quinton. In consequence the school is being worked under great difficulties.

Mr. Harold Hales of Rushden, North End School attended here this morning to take the place of one of the three absent teachers. He is taking Standard IV for the present.

Mr. Hales ceased duties here this afternoon.

Mr. A.W. Morris resumed duties this morning. Mr. Fred Perkins of Rushden, Newton Road School reported here this morning to take the place of one of the two absent teachers.

Mr. F. Perkins ceased duties here this morning.

Mr. L.E. Brightwell resumed duties here this morning. He is taking Standard VI in the absence of Miss Groome who is not yet recovered from illness.

Mr. T.C. Millican H.M.I visited the school and inspected the classes at work.

Miss Nellie Groome resumed duties this afternoon after 4 weeks illness.

Examination of school completed and the children re-classified. The re-classification was necessary in view of the new registers having to be commenced on the 1^st April.

New registers for 1919-1920 commenced today, Tuesday, and the children moved into the new classes. Mr. T.E. Millicent H.M.I. paid a short visit to the school towards the end of the afternoon session, to see how the registration difficulty had been overcome. The difficulty was due to having to begin new registers a month before the end of the school year. No notice having been received from the L.E.A. the course outlined above was pursued.

Notice received that the new school year had not to be commenced. This notice was too late to alter the above arrangements.

New stock arrived for half year ending Sept 1919.

Mr. E.J. Huke absent from school due to illness.

Mr. E.J. Huke resumed duties during the morning. School closed in the afternoon owing to a visit of Lord George Sanger’s Circus to Rushden.

School closed at noon today for the Easter Holidays – Thursday 17^th April to Monday 28^th April 1919.

School re-opened after the Easter Vacation with an attendance of 251, a fall of snow having seriously affected the attendance. No. on roll 294

There were 20 children who left school at the end of the Easter Term, 6 girls and 14 boys. Of these 17 have started work, one boy has gone to a Secondary School and two boys have left the neighbourhood. The staff are fully represented.