Mr Reeves (Assistant Education Officer) called to see Mr Greenslade re his studies since leaving college (1 year).  He also had talks with Mrs Ash and Headmaster.

HMI Mr R Hewarth visited today.

School nurse inspected children.

Mrs Cockle absent – illness of her child Timothy.

School closed 4.0p.m. for mid-term holiday.

Caretaker ill.

School re-opened 9.0a.m. – all staff present.

Mrs Ash(Q) absent – illness.

Mrs Ash likely to be absent this week – influenza.

Mrs Ash returned to duty.

Caretaker returned to duty.  Office notified.

Headmaster and Miss Scott acted as invigilators at Newton Rd School for the ASE.  Mr Lawrence and one of his assistants came here.

Normal school in the afternoon.

Mr Bowles (Assistant Commissioner for National Savings) called.  I asked him to check the £10 Credit Stock which is held by the school.

School closed for County Council election.

School re-opened.  Medical inspection.

Mr Bowles, Assistant Commissioner for National Savings, brought a 30 years service medal for Headmaster.

School closed 4.0p.m. for easter.

School re-opened – all staff present.

National Savings films were shown in the hall from 3 to 4p.m.  They were much enjoyed by the children.

Miss Scott absent today – illness.

Mr Twigg, Surveyor of County Council, called re garden fences. 

Mrs cockle absent part of morning and all p.m.

Miss Scott absent a.m. – serious illness of mother.  She returned p.m.

Mrs Cockle still absent.

Mrs Cockle absent p.m. for funeral of stepmother.

Empire Day celebrated.  Hymn 209 and address by Headmaster on Fellowship of the Commonwealth of Nations and affection for the throne National Anthem sung and BBC broadcast of visits by Their majesties to countries of the British Commonwealth.

Notice from LEA of 3 girls and 10 boys called up for interview and further tests for the ASE on Wed 1^st June at Wellingborough.

Ascension Day and District Sports day – school closed.

School re-opened.

Mr Greenslade has to attend an interview in Rushden re a post at Tennyson Rd Secondary Modern School for Boys at 2.30 this afternoon.

13 children went to 2^nd part of ASE at Wellingborough today.

4 children were presented with certificates gained in the District Schools Sports which were held at Higham Ferrers last Thursday.

Rev Boatright took assembly prayers this morning.

School closed at 4.0p.m. for Whitsuntide Holiday.

School re-opened 9.0a.m. – all staff present.

3 boys and 1 girl borderline cases are called for 21^st June for further exam for ASE.

Notice from LEA that 9 children, 7 boys and 2 girls, will be transferred to secondary grammar schools.

Mr Harley away on a one-day course at Wellingborough.

SMO visited for mental tests for Victor Church.

School closed for outing to Windsor by coaches.

School re-opened.

School closed 4.0p.m. for summer holidays.

Mrs E M Ash, Miss M S Warren and Mr G S Greenslade ceased duties today.

School re-opened.

Miss Marjorie Joy Boxall, Mr James Arthur Simpson and Mrs Mary Oswina Allen commenced duty.

School Medical Officer inspected children.

SMO inspected children.

Mrs cockle absent a.m., returned p.m.

Headmaster absent p.m. by permission of Managers.

Mrs M O Allen absent p.m. to attend specialist re her child.

Mrs W E Cockle absent – illness.

Nurse inspected children.

Owing to leaking boiler the school was flooded when the Caretaker arrived.  He fetched Eelce, Hot Water Engineer, and when Headmaster arrived the SAO Mr Viccars informed by phone and chairman of Managers in consultation with Mr Reeve decided to close this p.m.  Try again tomorrow to open.

Re-opened 9.0a.m.

p.m. Mrs N A Bennett reported for duty with the Babies class.

Mrs Bennett finished at 4.0.

Mrs M O Allen absent – tonsillitis.  Mrs Cockle returned.

Fire lighted in repaired boiler, 1^st class moved back again.

Mrs Allen still absent – illness.

School closed 4.0p.m. – mid-term holiday.

School re-opened – all staff present.  Mrs Allen returned.

Headmaster absent – illness.

Headmaster absent – illness.

Headmaster returned to duty.

Miss Berwick, HMI, visited today.

Mr H M J Thompson, Caretaker, finished duty today.

Mr Peter Dix, Caretaker, commenced duty today.

Mrs W G Cockle absent a.m. owing to illness of mother-in-law living with her.  She returned p.m.

Posted to LEA the Nat Health Ins card of Peter Dix.

Four copies of “Agreed Syllabus” of Religious Instruction received.

School concert afternoon and Infants’ tea party.

Classes 3, 4 and 5 Xmas cake party and close 4.0p.m.

Mrs M O Allen finished duty here.

School re-opened – all staff present.

Mr Ronald Colin Mitchell joined the staff in a permanent capacity.

National Fire Service Officer Mr Lord inspected the building re Fire Protection and Escape.

Mr Sugars, chairman of Managers, and Mr E Freeman Senior Manager  visited all classes in the school.

Police inspected cycles for Road Safety Campaign – 13 cycles.

Mrs Cockle absent – illness.

Mrs Cockle absent – illness.

Mrs Cockle returned to duty.

School closed 4.0p.m. for Election and mid-term holiday.

School re-opened – all staff present.

School nurse visited and inspected all classes except  and 2.

Headmaster absent – death of father.  Mr Mitchell left in charge.

ASE – Mr R R Lawrence invigilated and Miss Bennett. Miss Scott to newton rd.

Headmaster returned to duty.

Headmaster invigilated at Newton Rd School – ASE 2 morning.

School closed for Easter.

School re-opened – all staff present.

Mr Ash (Headmaster) absent owing to illness.

Mr Viccars accompanied by Mr Green, chief attendance officer, called during afternoon.

Cecil L Collings 27/12300 takes charge in the absence of Mr Ash.

SAO called a.m.

Mr Freeman, Senior Manager, and SAO called this morning re the bad state of repairs in the lavatories.  A roof leak was also pointed out.  Mr Viccars is reporting these matters to the Schools’ Architect.

School nurse visited to weigh and measure children who are to be subsequently examined by Dr.

School Doctor examined 18 children this morning.

SAO called in the afternoon.

Ascension Day.  Service at St Mary’s 9.0a.m.  School closed.

School Doctor examined 36 children today.

Heavy storms during the weekend have caused the drains in the school yard to flood and left what appears to be a black layer of sludge.  Rushden Urban District Council advised immediately.

Eileen Stocker awarded 10/- in bicycle safety competition.

Nurse attended p.m. to weigh and measure children for medical examination tomorrow.

Empire Day – Short service and broadcast.

SAO visited this morning.

27 children medically examined by School Doctor.

11 girls and 6 boys attended at Wellingborough for Part II of Schools Examination.

School closed at 4p.m. for Whitsun holiday.

School re-opened 9a.m. after Whitsun Holiday.

Mrs Cockle absent – ill.

SAO called.

At my request Sgt Dickens of the Police called.  The dangerous situation with regard to the safety of the children catching buses at noon was discussed.  If possible it is proposed that the children who usually board the bus on the far side of Bedford Rd will in future do so at the bottom of Wymington Rd.

Re the above note – the proposal has been adopted.

Mrs Cockle returned to duty.

Mr O L Ash, Headmaster of this school since September 1935 died yesterday Sunday 11^th June 1950.

Mrs cockle absent p.m. – Managers’ permission.

SAO called.

Mr Ash’s funeral today.

The Rector took the morning service with all Juniors.  Individual bunches of garden flowers brought by the children were taken to the Church to line the way to the west door.

Mr Mitchell and Mr Harley represented the staff; while those of the Senior class who wished, and had their parents’ consent, were also allowed to attend the service.

School closed for District Sports Day.

Educational Psychologist Dr L P Star called.

7 borderline SAE children to Wellingborough for oral examination.

Nurse Wallis called in the afternoon to inspect the children’s heads etc..

Schools Library van called in the morning and exchanged books.

School organised outing to London.  A tour was made of the principal sights and visits paid to the Tower and the Zoo.  103 children and 47 adults were taken and the school was closed for the day.

This very successful excursion was organised throughout by Mr Mitchell.

Notice this morning that 6 boys and 9 girls have gained scholarships to Secondary Grammar Schools.

Dr Star, the Educational Psychologist, called this morning to see Richard George.

SAO called a.m.

Mrs Cobley absent in the afternoon on account of personal illness.

Mrs Cobley returned to duty this morning.

Mr Harley absent in the morning – Hospital examination at Northampton.

Mr Simpson absent all day – interview at Burnley.

Mr Simpson reported for duty in the afternoon.

Dr Star, Educational Psychologist, called.

SAO called in the morning.

Mrs Cockle absent in the afternoon with Managers’ permission.

SAO called in the morning.

Mr Astle who will be taking up his duties as Headmaster in September spent part of the morning and afternoon at the school.

Mr Astle again spent part of the day here.

SAO called in the morning.

Registers all correct and signed and found everything quite satisfactory.

                                                                                                E Freeman

Mr Astle spent part of the day here.

SAO called p.m.

SAO called a.m.

13 children were successful in obtaining swimming certificates.

School closed p.m. for the August holiday.

I start my duties as Headmaster of this school today.

                                                                F C Astle

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Reeves, deputy CEO, called this afternoon to look over school site and surrounding waste land.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School nurse called this afternoon for list of children admitted.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Mr Wright, adviser on Visual Aids, called this afternoon to arrange blackout of Miss Scott’s room.

Mr Wright called again this morning and left some tape for curtains.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called this afternoon.

Mr Thorn, music adviser, called this morning and arranged a further visit for Wed next.

Miss Prentice called this afternoon and discussed proposed schemes for Needlework.

Mr Thorn called this morning and saw music being taken with all classes.  He expressed general approval and promised to let HT have notes and suggestions on this subject in near future.

An experimental timetable has now been operating for a week.  It is being modified almost daily.  Next week we start an experiment with classes 3, 4 and 5 taking Monday and Wednesday afternoon sessions and devoting them to ‘Project’ cum ‘Activity’ methods.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.  HT handed him a list of alterations etc. For annual estimates.  HT also informed him of complaint lodged by Caretaker (about the state of the school’s lavatories after Sunday School) who wishes to resign.

Mr Wright called and helped fit up blackout curtains in Miss Scott’s room.

School nurse attended this afternoon and saw all of the children present examining heads etc..  She expressed delight in the fact that the school is almost clear of trouble.

Caretaker handed me a note tendering his resignation.  HT handed it to Mr Viccars who called later.

Two Managers, Messrs Freeman and Sugars, called this morning to see HT.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called this afternoon to see HT in connection with the disposal of the old sleepers and wood in the playground.  He authorised the HT to dispose of the old floor boards for 30/-.

Miss Byatt, organiser for school meals, called to discuss meals and returns with HT.

Miss Orchard called and borrowed a set of weights.

School nurse called and examined Carol Hall (eyesight).

Miss Boxall, suffering with her back, reported to HT that she doubted if she would be able to continue if it did not improve.

Miss Boxall came to school and told HT that the doctor had advised her to go home (Chichester) and see a specialist as he suspected spinal trouble.  HT notified office by phone.  No member of emergency staff available.  Try to find local “supply”.

Mr Viccars called this afternoon in connection with above.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mrs Desborough commenced duties here as “supply” in place of Miss Boxall.

Received notice from Miss Boxall that she is suffering from severe lumbar strain but hopes to resume her duties on Monday.

Mrs Desborough ceases here today.

Miss Boxall returned today.  She is obviously far from fit. 

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Since the caretaker handed in his notice he has been conspicuously missing both before and after school and his work has fallen off.  I am leaving a note requesting him to attend to the lavatories and urinals which are in a most unsatisfactory state.

Miss Berwick, HMI, accompanied by Miss MacGee visited the school this morning and after going round the school discussed several matters with the HT.

School closes today for Autumn holiday.

School re-opened.

Today we start having dinners in the spare room.  The necessary furniture was delivered this morning.  29 children stayed.

Staff meeting held this afternoon to discuss Dinner duties, Christmas festivities and Reading.

School dinners are proving a great success.  30 extra children wish to stay but cannot be accommodated until we receive more furniture.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

I have checked Registers finding them correct.  The school shows a distinct improvement in method and general orderliness.  Good feeling and co-operation of staff shows itself in the keen and happy appearance of the children.

                                                                                                RE Weale

Miss Wright, organiser for school meals, called this afternoon.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called this afternoon.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Now we have received extra furniture the numbers staying for dinner can increase to 60.  54 children staying today.

Mrs A Bradshaw and Mrs F H Percival have been appointed as helpers for school meals.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mrs Abrahams assisted with the dinners as Mrs Percival has been called away to assist at Portland Rd Central Canteen.

Severe frost last night.  Outside lavatories frozen up.  Caretaker was unable to take proper precautions as the pipes froze during the afternoon.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Concert given by Infants was a great success.  Room was crowded with parents and friends.

Parties were given to Infants in their department and Juniors in main room.  Commenced with concert in main room for all.  The concert and every part went off in a most successful way.

School closed today for Christmas holidays.

School re-opened.  Mr Harley absent, cause unknown.

Staff

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Harley still absent – suffering from “flu”.

Constant stream of visitors, chiefly in connection with vacancy for caretaker.

Mr Harley still absent.

Mrs Cobley also away with “flu”.

HT sent message to Mrs Desborough to see if she could help us.  Mrs D arrived and will take charge of upper Infants.

Mr H arrived late (obviously still far from well).

Mr Viccars, SAO, called during the afternoon and left forms for all of the staff.

Mr Viccars called this morning to see about moving Mrs Desborough to Alfred St P School where they have four teachers away.  It was arranged for this to take place tomorrow.

Mrs Cockle absent this afternoon, taking daughter to medical inspection.

School dentist here all day carrying out routine inspection.

County school architect called at 4p.m.

Dental inspection continues today.  Parents were invited to see dentist between 2 and 3 each day.  Very good response.

ASE entry forms despatched to Office.  38/50 sitting.

Received notice of resignation from Mrs Cobley.

Mrs Cobley resumed duties today.

Mr Parry, Organiser for PT, called this afternoon and left 30 small mats.

Two officers of NFS (Kettering) called this morning and left two fire extinguishers.

Staff meeting this morning during playtime – proposed school outing.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Attendance very poor this week – flu and colds.

School extremely cold this morning with temperatures as low as 38°F.  Only one room with reasonable temperature.  The school was also far from clean.  All lavatory pipes and cisterns frozen.  The Caretaker who is finishing this week is wilfully neglecting the school.

Mr Wright, visual aid organiser, called this morning.

Mr Dorks, the new Caretaker, commenced today.  We find that once again the pipes in the lavatories are all burst.  This is entirely due to last caretaker’s negligence.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Attendance still low.  School closes today until Wednesday – half-term holiday.

School re-opened.  School much cleaner.  Caretaker had trouble with two stoves so several rooms rather cold.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School nurse visited and examined heads etc..  Reported everyone clean save for one exception.  Very pleased.

HT checked on children who were promoted at Christmas.  All seemed to have settled well in their new classes.  HT found a few children who should be wearing glasses not doing so.  Requested class teachers to note those who should wear glasses, to place them in suitable places and to see that they do so.

Mr Green, chief SAO, accompanied Mr Viccars when he visited the school today.

Mr E Ward called with parcel of ASE papers etc..

Mr R F Harley absent – undergoing minor operation for removal of ganglion.

Mrs S E M Holmes commenced duties as ‘supply’. 

Mr Viccars, SAO, visited this morning.

ASE – Messrs L Lawrence and Cobley invigilated.  Miss Scott and Mr Mitchell to Newton Rd.

Mrs Holmes unable to come on Wed and Fri afternoons.

Mr Harley still absent.  Mrs Holmes continues on ‘supply’.

Mr Viccars, SAO, visited this morning.

A Police Sergeant and Constable called to inspect the children’s cycles under the county scheme.  They expressed approval on the condition of the bicycles.

Mr R F Harley resumed duties this morning.  I would like to record the excellent work that was done by Mrs Holmes with class 3.

Mr Viccars called.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Sugars, manager, called and checked registers.

School closes today until Apr 9^th for Easter Holiday.

Mrs Cobley who leaves here today was presented with a clock and cabinet from the scholars and staff.

School re-opened after Easter Holiday.

Mrs Holmes is assisting with upper Infants pro tem.

Staff

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

Mrs Regis, assistant organiser for meals, called and left overalls for the dinner helpers.

Mr Wheeler from the School Lecturers’ Association gave a talk on “Travelling in India” to the two upper classes.

School closed this afternoon to enable teachers to attend a ‘Library and Books’ conference at Wellingborough.

Mrs Holmes absent this afternoon.

Mrs Holmes ceased duties here today.

No teacher for upper Infants class.

Mrs Regis called and observed all arrangements for the serving of dinners.

Ascension Day – school closed.

Mrs S E M Holmes, supply teacher, returned today to assist until Whitsun.

Margaret desborough received 10/- prize for best maintained cycle.

Paulette Smith won road safety competition for 10-12 group and presented second best entry in whole competition.  She gets a prize of 30/-.  Geoffrey Parnell was level first in the under 10 group and receives 8/6 prize.

School doctor and nurse examined 20 children this morning.  Nearly all parents were present.

School closes today for Whitsun Holiday.  Mrs Holmes ceased duty here.

School re-opened.  Miss J R Griffiths (going to college in Sept) reported for duty today.  She will be with the upper Infants. 

School nurse in attendance weighing and measuring the children for Med examination on Friday.

Mr Hornsby, assistant education officer, called and examined Infants’ desks.

Mr Green, chief attendance officer, called this morning.

Empire day – Empire Day service and hymns at opening.  Talk and BBC lesson later.

Eleven children went to Wellingborough for further test in ASE.

Doctor and nurse in attendance all day examining 40 children.

Doctor and nurse present examining 20 children.

School closed tomorrow for teachers to attend ‘refresher course’.

Mr F Wright called this morning.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

School closed – area sports at Irthlingborough.

For the past two weeks we have tried a staggered playtime, the Infants having from 10.30 to 10.45.  This has not proved successful and we return to normal times next week.

School closed tomorrow for the school outing.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

The outing proved most successful and I have received several letters of appreciation from parents also thanks verbally from many others.  Each and every member of the staff worked exceedingly to ensure this success.

Mr Wilce, HT Tennyson Rd S M Boys School, called to consult HT about boys transferring to his school at August.

Mr Sugars called and checked the Registers.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called over applicant for post of Infants teacher.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Received notice that the following were successful in ASE:-

                John Hobbs

                Anthony Steel

                Brian Stokes

                Jean Holmes

                Gillian Patenall

                Barbara Kirby

                Judith Harris

Open day this afternoon 2-3.30 for parents of Infants and Std I.  Somee 100 parents attended.

Open day for parents of rest of school – nearly 100 parents attended.  These functions have been most successful.  Co-operation of staff most gratifying.

School closed.  FoB children’s day.  Cinema show for Juniors in morning and entertainment for Infants.  School sports in afternoon.

Sports were postponed by HT at 10.45a.m. following rain.  Weather improved considerably after decision had been made.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

HT visited Tennyson Rd Infants School re children transferring at August.

Miss Smith, recently appointed as infants teacher and who commences in Sept, visited the school this afternoon.

Representative from Architect’s office called this morning.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School sports held in Jubilee Park this afternoon.  Very successful affair.  Many parents attended.

Miss Smith, who will start here in September, visited the school and stayed all day.  She will do the same on Wed and Thurs.

School closed today until Sept 4^th for the summer holiday.

Miss J Griffith leaves today.

I would like to record my appreciation to the staff for their loyalty and c-operation during this my first year at South End.  I feel that we can face the future with real confidence.

School re-opened after holiday.

Book stock arrived from Arnolds.

Staff

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Received message from milkman that no school milk will be delivered today or on Monday.  Position will then be reviewed.  HT consulted HT’s of Tennyson Rd Mixed and Infants Schools and Alfred St schools with idea of getting a regular supply, even if greatly reduced, with priority for Infants.

Full amount of milk arrived today.  First delivery since Sept 6^th.

Library stocktaking and exchange.

Mr Vicars, SAO, called this afternoon.

School nurse called and saw all children present 263/274.

Warned children in each class of the danger of crossing the main road from Crabb St.  Advised going along road and using the pedestrian crossing by the Co-op.  This crossing is hazardous even for adults, being absolutely ‘blind’ to the right.

Mr A Lee, chairman of Education Primary sub-committee, called this morning and went round the school – his first visit.  He said “I am appalled at finding gas lighting in a school in a town in the middle of the twentieth century”.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.  No cases reported.

HT interviewed Mr Shaw in connection with his son Clive’s behaviour.  Clive played truant on two days last week.

On reaching school this morning I found that room 6 was full of gas.  I opened all windows and the door and gave orders that no one was to go in.  Later I tested the gas with a light, turning the gas on and off.  I obtained no positive results so phoned the local gas undertaking.  A man was sent immediately and he dealt with the trouble.  He reported to the HT that we should never get satisfaction with the present installation as the pipes were iron and very old.  They are full of corrosion flakes which are constantly falling and affecting both the taps and the efficiency of the lighting.  HT requested having such a report in writing and workman stated he would ask the supervisor to let us have one.  Apparently the lighting at South End School is a stock subject of conversation and ribaldry among the gass board’s workmen.

Attendance last week was extremely good.  Percentage for the whole school being over 96.  Allowed whole school to go home a few minutes early as a reward.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Caretaker reported to HT that he is finding it increasingly difficult to keep the Infants’ rooms and porches clean as the lighting in these places is poor.  HT advised him to do his best under the conditions.

Mr F W Wright (visual aids etc.) called this morning with representative of a Wellingborough firm to ‘lay out’ system for loud speaker extensions to serve each room.

Visit from Mr Nicholson, parent of an Infant, whose boy was nearly run over on leaving school on Friday – re the danger of the road outside the school.  I promised to notify the local police and the Office of this once again.

Miss Scott not present this morning owing to her father being seriously ill.  Miss Scott arrived late having arranged for neighbour to watch her father.

Representative from local gas undertaking called in connection with a report on the school lighting – see entry on P306.

Messrs Sugars and Allebone, representing the Managers, called and consulted HT in connection with list of repairs etc. for the Annual Estimates.

Police Constable called in connection with road safety (see entry Oct 15^th).

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Took ASE Practice Test with all candidates present and other suitable children.

HT had to replace mantles in one room and adjust gas burners in three rooms this morning.  Miss Prentice, Needlework Organiser, called this afternoon.

This is United Nations week.  Appropriate prayers and hymns will be taken at morning assembly both today and tomorrow.  Class teachers will give talks to their classes on this tomorrow.

School closed today for the General Election.

School re-opened today.  School closes this afternoon until Nov 5^th for Autumn holiday.

School re-opened.

Cheque for £9-9-0 sent to County Treasurer as school’s part payment for new wireless receiver.

Mr F W Wright, organiser for visual aids, called this morning in connection with installation of new wireless set.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning and with HT checked all registers.  He was requested to look up peter Hemmington, believed to be playing truant.

MrViccars called again this afternoon after confirming our suspicion re P Hemmington.  The boy should return tomorrow.  He and his parents have been warned about the seriousness of this offence.

Peter Hemmington absent again today.  No note or reason sent.

On three occasions this week HT has had to climb up to and adjust gas lamps which failed to light in different classrooms.

Mrs Cockle absent this afternoon – with permission.

HT phoned Mr Viccars in connection with the above mentioned boy.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called late this afternoon.

Mr Trigg called again this afternoon.

Mr Wright called with the electrician who is wiring the school for loud speaker extensions for the new wireless set.  Electrician stayed to do the wiring.

ASE preliminary general test.  HT and Mr Mitchell went to Newton Rd as invigilators.  Mssrs Lawrence and Cobley from Alfred St did duty here.  Miss Scott left in charge.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this a.m.

School nurse called this a.m.

Mr Wright called and left the new wireless set.

Warned all boys in top 3 classes about gangs, feuds and “raiding”.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Hornsby, Assistant Education Officer, called this afternoon to view the road and to discuss with HT the dangers of crossing it (see Oct 15^th).

Miss M J Boxall absent today, having injured her back when taking PT with Girls Brigade last night.

Received message that Mrs Dorks will not be able to carry out her duties as ‘dinner helper’ owing to rheumatism.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this a.m.

Mr Wright and electricians completed installation of the new wireless set.

Miss Boxall returned today, obviously far from well.

Caretaker stayed and had talk with HT about:-

1.        Difficulties with Stoves.

2.       State of school after use by Sunday School.

3.       Cisterns in boys’ lavatories, one of which would not stop flooding.  HT examined it and found pipe had been pulled out of place probably by someone climbing on Sunday.

Mr Sugars called and checked all registers, finding them all correct.  He complimented the children on the good attendance in the top half of the school.

Mr Cox, building contractor, called this morning to see HT about minor repairs which are to be done.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called over the same matter.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Jumble Sale held in the evening.  Proceeds for School Fund.  A clear profit of
£82-2-0 was made.  This splendid result was largely due to the efficient and whole-hearted support of the staff and a small committee of parents.

Yesterday and today have been very dull.  Lights have proved unsatisfactory even after adjustments.  Lessons modified or cancelled because of this.

For some time past a brown and white dog has caused trouble at the school – taking caps, balls etc.  HT approached owner some time ago and warned him about this.  Today the dog ruined a PT lesson  - ran off with a ball and led us on to the waste ground where he had hidden a new cap after tearing it.  HT reported this matter to the police.

Miss Scott arrived shortly before playtime this morning after a bilious attack in the early hours.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Miss Kemp, organiser for PE, called this afternoon and saw the bottom five classes.  They took the activity type of work that has been forced on us by the condition of the playground this term. 

Mr Mitchell received urgent phone message at 3p.m. and asked to be released for rest of session – sudden serious illness of near friend.

Mrs Dorks ill – unable to help at dinner time.

Miss Kemp called again this afternoon with view to giving advice and demonstration in PE.  She was unable to do so owing to the state of the playground.  She was horrified to find the playground in such a state (the day had been bright and drying after a night’s frost) it being covered in a layer of glutenous mud.  She stated that she would report the matter and asked the HT to do the same.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.  HT handed him letter containing report on above for the attention of the Managers before despatch to the Office.

Paula Nunley slipped on a slide during activity work (in place of usual PT) this morning.  HT in charge of class at the time – accident report sent to Office.  HT feared a Colles Fracture.  This was confirmed later.

Christmas parties today and tomorrow.  Programme given overleaf.

Wed      3.15-4.15 Entertainer Mr Ashton – whole school.

                4.30-5.15 Tea – Juniors.

                5.15-6.30 Games etc.

Thurs     2.15-2.45 Carols etc. – whole school.

                3.0-4.30 Party – tea and games – (Infants)

The whole programme went through without a single hitch and must be reckoned as an outstanding success.  All of this was arranged by the staff and the success reflects great credit on each and every one of them.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School closes today for Christmas holiday.

School re-opened this morning – all staff present.

9 new children admitted.

The school had been thoroughly cleaned during the holidays and presented an attractive appearance.

Classes are arranged as follows:-

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr F Wright called this morning and took away the old wireless set and speaker.

Miss F M Scott absent owing to death of her father.

Miss Scott resumed duties today.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Burns called at noon and left a parcel containing the examination papers for next week.  Before the holidays and since we have had a succession of very dull days.  This coupled with the inadequate lighting has made things very difficult.  Many lessons have been cancelled or modified.

Nurse examined all children present yesterday and this morning.  Result very satisfactory; only one or two doubtful heads.  Nurse is seeing parents concerned.

ASE second part today.  HT did duty as invigilator at Newton Rd School.  Mr R R Lawrence of Alfred St did duty here.  Mr Graber, HMI, called during the examination.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

Received news this morning of the death of our King George VI.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

Most of the school listened to the Proclamation of the Ascension to the Throne of H M Queen Elizabeth II on the wireless.

Morning play taken at 10.25-10.40.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School nurse called to consult HT at midday.

Funeral of H M the late King George VI 9.30-10.30.  Upper Junior class listened to BBC commentaries, in turn, of the procession from Westminster to Paddington 1.40-2.15.  Whole school except babies heard BBC commentary at Windsor and joined in observing the two minutes silence.

Mr Viccars, SAO, accompanied by two of the Managers, Messrs Freeman and Sugars, visited the school this afternoon.

HT left school for short time to attend to urgent private business.

School closed today until Wednesday next for half-term holiday.

School re-opened this morning.  Mrs Cockle absent, ill.

Mrs Cockle returned to duty this morning.

Mr Viccars called.

Mr Ross, county organiser for drama etc., called this afternoon.  He spent some time with the HT discussing dramatics in the Junior school.

School nurse called this afternoon.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Miss Kemp called this afternoon.

Mr Dorks, the Caretaker , called to see me yesterday about his salary and the income tax he is paying.  He asked for a statement about what he had been paid since he commenced here for the income tax authorities.  I have made one out based on the salary sheets.

Miss E C Smith absent suffering chill on stomach.

Miss Smith resumed duties today.

Miss Kemp, organiser for PE, called this morning and afternoon, seeing all classes in the Junior school.  She expressed gratification with the work being done by the teachers and children.

P S Dickens accompanied by a PC examined the cycles of those children who ride to school.  He also gave a short talk to all of the juniors on ‘Safety First’ and ‘kerb drill’.  He stated he was pleased with the way in which the cycles were maintained.

School nurse called.

Mr Thorn, music adviser, called this afternoon and heard the older children singing the songs for the forthcoming music festival.  He said he was very pleased with them and that they were doing well.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School closes today for Election tomorrow and for Easter until April 22nd.

Received notice that the following children had been successful in the ASE:-

                Maureen Allen

                Margaret Cook

                Patricia Fergusson

                Wendy Robinson

                Jennifer Whitwell

                Jeanette Bloor

                Michael Drage

                Geoff Parnell

                Richard Sugars

School re-opened today – all staff present except Mrs Cockle who is recovering from influenza.

From today Mr Harley will have charge of the top group who are leaving at August.  He will concentrate mainly on the freer type of work dealing mainly with different “projects”.  The next two classes have moved to Miss Scott and Mr Mitchell.

Classes are arranged as follows:-

Mrs bates commenced ‘supply’ duties here during Mrs Cockle’s absence.

Mr Wright called and took away unit of wireless set for adjustment.

School architect called this afternoon

Mr Harley absent – severe chest pains.  HT took class.

Mr Wright called, bringing back wireless set unit.

Mr Sugars, school manager, called this afternoon.

Mr Harley returned this morning though apparently still far from well.

Mrs G Bates finished duties here today.

Mrs Cockle returned today.

During the weekend a severe storm flooded the playground.  Water from the main drains forced up the manhole covers and drain tops.  This morning the playground was covered with foul silt.  The Caretaker has cleared a great deal of it away.  HT notified Rushden UDC of this by phone.

Playground was swept, disinfected and hosed by UDC workmen.

School nurse called and saw all children – general cleanliness.  She reported that this was satisfactory.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning – Patrick Woods truant?

A parent, Mr Woods, called about his (adopted) son who is playing truant.

Following a storm last night we had a recurrence of the happening of May 5^th.  The Caretaker did a grand job in endeavouring to clear the playground, working in several inches of mud and water.  Notified the Office and local council by phone.

Patrick Woods absent again.  Reported case to Mr Viccars who called this morning.

Playground cleaned, disinfected and hosed down by UDC workmen.

Mrs Woods called at 1.35p.m. to see if Patrick had come to school.  He had been sent again as usual.

School closed – Ascension Day.

Miss Boxall absent this afternoon to attend an interview at Brampton, Hunts.

Swindall’s men in playground seeing to the drains.  PT seriously affected.

Continued.

School closed this afternoon – Area Senior School Sports.

School closes today until June 9^th for Whitsun holiday.  Very good attendance for past week.  97.5% - Ave att 282.7.

School re-opened today.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School nurse called this afternoon.

School closed for teachers’ refresher course at Northampton.

Miss D B Johnson of Finedon Infants School, who is likely to be transferred to this school in August, called and had a lengthy talk with HT.

School architect called at 4.15p.m. to examine playground after work done on drains recently.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.  HT informed him of Miss Johnson’s visit and requirements for pplicants for second vacancy.

Mr Sugars, school manager, called this afternoon and checked the registers.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

School closed today for school’s annual outings.

Both school outings proved most successful.  I would like to record my appreciation of the services rendered so readily by every member of the staff.  Their help was largely responsible for everything going so well.

Mr Harley absent – suffering from abscess on the jaw.

Mr Viccars called this morning.

Miss March called to se HT about recording at forthcoming sports.

Mr Harley returned to duties this morning.

School doctor present today examining children.  Exams taken in all subjects in each junior class during past week.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

School closed tomorrow for Area Junior Sports.

School doctor present all day.

Open days 2-3.30.  Majority of parents visited the school and individual classes.  All seemed very pleased with what they saw.  I think we can say the open days were most successful.

School choir of 40 boys and girls, trained by Mr Harley, took part in Rushden Music Festival which was a great success.  They earned much credit and received many complimentary remarks.

Medical inspection all day.

School sports held at Jubilee Park this afternoon.  A good affair attended by many parents.

School nurse present weighing measuring etc. children for forthcoming medical inspection.

Miss M J Bozall, who is leaving today, was presented a table reading lamp as a present from the scholars and staff.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called.

School nurse called.

School closes today for summer holiday.

The school is now in a very satisfactory condition.  The three top classes are better than any known foe the past few years.  The general level of the classes is much higher than before.  My thanks are due to each member of the staff for real co-operation and hard work put in during the year.

School closed for summer holiday.

School re-opened.

Miss D B Johnson commenced duties at this school.

Staff:-

Owing to overloading in the Juniors and a small age-group of upper Infants, 12 Juniors will be taken as a special group in Mrs Cockle’s class.

The school will work under difficulty for the next week or two as electricians are wiring the school for electric lights.

School doctor present this afternoon examining rest of children.

Mr D Ross called this afternoon and had chats with Miss Johnson and Mr Clark on playwork for their classes.

SMO called this afternoon.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning and visited all classes.

Mr Sugars, a Manager, called this afternoon to discuss problem of road safety with HT.  On Friday last two senior police officers, the County Surveyor and County Road Safety Organiser called to study the position etc. of the school in connection with this.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

County Road Safety Organiser called this afternoon and collected numbers of children who have to cross the main road (A6) and observed infants leaving at 3.30p.m.

School nurse called this morning and examined all children present (275/287) for general cleanliness.  Only one doubtfull.

Patrick Woods slipped while running at playtime and cut his head on school wall.  First aid rendered by Mr Clark and nurse.  Usual report sent to Office.

Electrician informed HT that the electric lights etc. were now installed.  The ‘link-up’ should take place tomorrow morning.

Mrs Dorks has ceased duties as ‘dinner helper’, Mrs J Denton is replacing her for the present.

Library change – 100 books.

During the last few days we have taken stock of books in class use.

HT left school at 2.30p.m. (with Managers’ consent) to attend a TV Exhibition at Northampton.

Mr Trigg, school architect, called at school accompanied by a colleague.

Since Monday last (Sept 29^th) we have been unable to use the wireless set.  First the power was disconnected and then the Electricity Board’s Engineer reported that he could not pass the present installation.  This was reported immediately to the organiser for educational aid.  One evening the chassis was taken from the set and placed on top, by whom or why I do not know.  This break has seriously interfered with the radio lessons for this term and is most unsatisfactory.

Electrical Organiser for Visual Aids etc. called and saw to wireless set this p.m.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Trigg, school architect, and Miss Byatt, Organiser for Meals, called to see if proper ‘washing up’ facilities could be installed.

Mr F Wright, visual aids organiser, called and left our new projector and back projection screen.

Mr Sugars called (representing chairman of Managers) in connection with annual repairs etc..

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning

School closed today for Autumn holiday.

School re-opened.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

ASE Preliminary Test and Composition this morning.  Mr Mitchell and HT at Newton Rd acting as invigilators.  Mr R Lawrence and Mr Cobley from Alfred St on duty here.

Mr Ball, County Engineer, called re lighting and heating.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

Mr Trigg (architect) and assistant called this afternoon.

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this morning.

I have paid a visit to school and checked the Registers and found them correct.

                                                                                                                A E Sugars

Mr Viccars, SAO, called this afternoon.

School parties held today.  Both very successful.

School closed today for Christmas Holiday.