School re-opened after the Christmas holidays.

Miss C M Watson absent.  Personal Illness.

Six children left for work during the holidays and ten were admitted.

Miss B E Gibbs absent owing to personal illness.

Miss M C Hall absent, ill.

There are now three teachers absent, so Mr Summerlin, a teacher from South End School which is at present closed, is assisting for the next two days (jany 16^th and 17^th).

Miss W Berry acting as supply teacher.

Miss M C Hall returned to school today

Mr J W Reynolds absent.  Ill with influenza.

Mr W G Dodge absent with influenza, making the fourth member of staff down with sickness.

Considerable decrease in attendance during the past ten days owing to the influenza epidemic.

Miss C M Watson returned today.

Miss B E Gibbs returned today.

Miss Berry who has been acting as supply ceased duty today.

Mr J W Reynolds took up duty again this afternoon.

Mr W G Dodge returned to duty this morning.

The attendance has improved considerably during this week reaching nearly 91%.

No Manual Instruction taken today owing to the illness of the instructor.

Visited by Messrs Sugars and Freeman, local managers.

General Intelligence test of the A S Examination taken this afternoon.

The school nurse visited the school for a routine inspection.

Miss M C Hall absent during the afternoon by permission of the managers to attend a funeral.

A S Examination held this morning.  Messrs Rial and Hake with Miss Groome from Alfred St School acted here as Invigilators, while Mr Allen and Miss Watson of this school acted in the same capacity at Alfred St.

Visited school and checked registers.
                                                W E Capon

In connection with a scheme of lectures being delivered in the county Dr Melhuish attended here this morning at 11am and spoke to the upper classes mainly on “Vitamines.”

Miss Doris R Drage absent from duty.

School closed after the afternoon session for the Easter holidays.

School re-opened after the Easter holidays. Staff all present and good attendance of children.  Six children have left school during the holidays – four for work and two for other schools.  There were no admissions this time.

Visited by Mr Parker H M I.

Mr F Corby, one of the local managers, paid a visit.

Received notice that five children, John Brian Barnes, Hbt Wm Catlin, Donald Chas Perch,

Jack Wm Sherwood and Eva Mary White had reached a sufficiently high standard in the A S exam to merit further consideration for the award of scholarships and free places.

Mrs S Forbes the Band of Mercy Organiser of the R S P C A gave an address to the second year senior school children and this necessitated a change in the timetable.

Five other children viz. Leonard Chas Clarke, Ronald G F Hodgkins, Marg’y ...Hopper, Donald Jas Moore and Christine Percival have been invited to attend an oral test in connection with the award of special places in the recent A S Examination.

Swimming lessons for the season commenced today. 

The five children mentioned under date May 17^th attended at Northampton for the Oral Test and secured their attendance mark.

Empire Day celebrated in the usual way.

The five children mentioned on May 19^th attended at Wellingborough Grammar School for the Oral Test during the afternoon and were marked .

Miss C M Watson absent owing to personal illness.

Miss Bertha e Gibbs ceased duty here today having been transferred to Raunds Council School.

An “A” scholarship has been awarded to Donald Chas Perch.

School closed at noon for the Whitsuntide holidays.

School re-opened after the Whitsuntide holidays.

Miss C M Watson present.

Miss Frances Mary Baker (U) is taking charge of Junior class 2 until a permanent teacher takes up duty.

Special places have been offered to John Brian Barnes, Herbert Wm Catlin, Jas W Sherwood, Eva M White and Margaret J Hopper.

Owing to a misunderstanding of the M.O.H.’s [Medical Officer of Health] instructions, a number of children have been kept away this week owing to an outbreak of measles in the Infants’ Dept.

School closed all day for the Annual School Sports.

Checked registers and found correct.
                                                F Green

Visited by Nurse Wilkins who carried out a routine inspection, seeing 376 children.

Miss Lilian Irene Clipson (U) who should have commenced duty here today in the place of Miss Bertha e Gibbs who resigned on May 31^st is reported ill with German measles.

Miss F M Baker is being retained on supply.

Visited by Messrs Freeman and Sugars, local managers.

An accident occurred to a boy named E Haddon? who managed to get his spectacles broken through another boy catching them with his elbow (2.30).

 School closed all day for the Annual Sunday School treat.

Miss D R Drage absent owing to illness to July 25^th.

Miss Clipson commenced duty today.

School closed for the midsummer holidays.

School re-opened after the Summer holidays.

Medical inspection by Dr Newton commenced this morning and is to be continued on Sept 6^th, 7^th, 8^th and 13^th.

57 children were admitted from Newton Rd Infants’ School, 2 from Alfred St Infants’ School and one child was re-admitted.

12 children left school for work, 31 for the Intermediate or secondary schools and four left the town, leaving 420 on roll.

Medical inspection completed this morning.

Scholarship at Northampton High School offered to Christine Percival, but as the girl had already commenced the term at Wellingborough High School, this was declined.

School closed all day for the usual Feast holiday.

Ceased duty here as Headmaster after eight years service.
                                                                                S Saddler

I took charge of this school at 9.00am today in accordance with the instructions received from Northampton.  Mr Saddler was present and attended to the payment of the staff and one or two other matters.
                Alfred Waywell.

I visited the school in the company of the Vice Chairman 12/10/33 and found everything quite satisfactory.
                E Freeman

A parent, Mrs Felce, came to school this morning to complain of the treatment of her son Derrick Felce.  On Friday, 13^th October, I had occasion to punish the boy for bullying a boy in a junior class.  Mrs Felce adopted a very aggressive attitude and refused to allow her son to go to his class.  I had to ask her to leave the school premises.  She signified her intention of taking the case to court.

The chairman of the managers called this afternoon and inspected the repairs being carried out in one of the classrooms.

Mrs Harbour called today in respect of her son ...who met with an accident in the playground during the morning recess.  She reports that the doctor is of the opinion that a bone in the boy’s wrist is broken. 

Mr Ferris, S A O, called this afternoon to investigate the circumstances of Derrick Felce’s punishment.

Mrs Felce had been to the school four times during the day, and had made a disturbance outside the school grounds.  In consequence of this I thought it advisable to notify the Police.  The Sergeant in charge promised to see the woman, and warn her regarding her future conduct.

The Police called at the school this morning to notify me that a warning had been issued to

Mrs Felce regarding her conduct at the schools.

Mrs Felce came to the school again this afternoon in spite of the warning issued to her by the Police.  I called in Mr Green, one of the managers, who promised that some drastic action would be taken in respect of her.  At playtime this afternoon Mrs Felce again presented herself at the school in company with three other women.  She came into the school and informed me that her son was unwell in the school grounds, and requested me to send him home.  The boy appeared to be in pain and I allowed him to leave the school.  His mother instead of returning home with him took him down into town.

The boy Felce was absent today.  On making enquiries, I obtained information that he had been playing on the street on the Wednesday evening.  His father sent a medical certificate to school this afternoon stating that the boy was suffering from “colic and nervous debility“ and signed by R W Davis MB ChB.  I immediately reported the matter to the nearest manager, Mr F Green.

The S A O called today.  He reported that the Secretary had written to Mrs Felce to state that in his opinion, the boy Derrick Felce had not been harshly dealt with, and that the parent had no grounds for complaint.

I have reported to Northampton that the stock of certain books is very low, and that it will not last beyond the end of the present month.

I take charge as Headmaster today.
                                E G Chilton Bolwell, LCP, InterB.., MIH, FRHS, NROT

Mr Allebone, Chairman of Managers called today.

Mr Green of the Managers called this morning.

Mr W E Capon of the Managers called this afternoon.

Messrs Sugars and Freeman of the Managers called.

Routine inspection thro’ morning by School Nurse.

Mr Reynolds absent today, indisposed.

Class taken by Headmaster.

Mr Reynolds returned this afternoon.

The School Dentist visited today and examined 200 children’s teeth.

School closed today for Christmas holidays.

Checked registers and found all correct.

School re-opened after holidays – attendance poor.

Upper section of school re-organised with mixed classes and parallel 2^nd and 3^rd yr classes.  Some regrouping has been done throughout the school to lessen the age range in each class.

Mr F Green visited this morning.

Miss Hall absent today with leave.

W H Abbott Esq Demonstrator of Physical Training called today.

Miss Hall returne to duty today.

Messrs Allebone and Corby of the Managers called this morning.

Mr Reynolds was granted leave of absence  by the Managers from 10.30 am to attend a Rural Council Meeting at Bedford.  He returned in the afternoon 1.45pm.

Miss Drage absent today, ill.

Messrs Sugars and Freeman of the managers called this afternoon.

Miss Drage has forwarded med Cert for Influenza – this is being sent to County Educ Office.

Miss Drage returned to duty this morning.

Mr Prothero called today with the S A O.

The Intelligence Test for A S Examination taken this afternoon in hall – 81 children sitting.  Miss Osborne and Mr Dodge assisted.

Mr Reynolds absent – telephone message to say ill in bed.

The Headmaster, Mr Allen and Miss Watson spent the morning as invigilators at Alfred St School – Annual Schools exam.  Mr Dodge was left in charge here – considerable re-arrangement of classes was necessary owing to Mr Reynolds’ absence.

Mr Reynolds returned to his duty this afternoon – usual TT conditions prevail from this afternoon – a medical certificate is being forwarded to the Education Office.

Miss Watson absent – indisposed.

Miss Watson returned this morning.

Mr L C Sharp (Caretaker) had an accident before morning school.  When winding the clock in Juniors 2 classroom he slipped and fell to the floor, the clock falling as well.  He cut his hand and after preliminary treatment by the Headmaster he visited the doctor.  Little further treatment was given however.  Time of accident about 8.30.

Messrs Parker and Mitchell H M I s visited and remained for the day.

Checked registers and found all correct.
                                                F Green

School closed today for Easter holidays.

Re-opened after Easter holidays – attendance somewhat better.

Headmaster absent, ill.  The school was left in charge of Mr J Allen, Senior Assistant Master.

Miss Watson absent, ill.  Miss Berry C T came on supply in the pm.

Headmaster returned this morning.

Miss Watson still absent.  Miss berry again on supply.  Medical certificate sent to County Office for Miss Watson.

Mrs Garside H M I called this afternoon.

Swimming Instruction at the Baths started this morning.

Miss Watson will not be returning to school before the Whitsun holiday – Miss l Berry is still on supply.

Stella Hodgkins and Dennis Maddams have been called for the oral examination.  Special Places Award – at Wellingborough Grammar School on June 1^st.

School closed this morning for Whitsun holiday.

Empire Day was remembered this morning as the 24^th falls in the holiday.

Miss berry finishes temporary duty this morning.

Re-opened following Whitsun holiday.

Miss Watson still absent.

Miss Wildman (C T) came on supply in the pm.

Headmaster absent today with leave – Mr J Allen in charge during absence.

Mr Capon of the Managers called this morning.

Miss Clipson absent this afternoon to attend funeral of near relative – with leave.

School closed for Sports.  The school gained the Holland cup for the second highest aggregate of points in section 1.

Mr Allen absent for the remainder of the week – he is attending a conference at Whitby in his capacity as Chairman of the Rushden Urban District Council.

Mr Allen returned this morning.

Joan Bates and Woods (C) obtained the Girls’ and Boys’ High Jump championship resp: at the County Sports, Northampton on Saturday last 30^th June.

Mr Dodge spent the afternoon at Stamford Rd S S Kettering – to discuss Handwork.

Mr Reynolds absent this afternoon with permission from the Managers.

During afternoon recreation a boy collided with Ronald Richardson and his face was cut under the eyebrow.  After minor attention at school, I judged it expedient to send the boy home that a stitch might be put into the cut by the child’s doctor.  Two boys accompanied Richardson home.

Visited by Mr F Corby (Manager).

Miss Hall absent this afternoon to attend Schools’ National Athletic Festival, blackpool.

School closed this afternoon for Schools’ Swimming Sports at the Baths.

Mr Allen absent today – indisposed.

Mr Allen returned this morning.

Messrs parker and Mitchell visited this morning.

School closed for Summer holidays.

Re-opening of school postponed till 10^th owing to decorating.  All staff reported for duty.

School re-opened – decorations completed. 

A special place has been awarded to Stella Hodgkins at Wellingboro’ Grammar School.

School closed today for the Feast.

Visited school checked registers and found all correct.
                                                                        F Green

Miss Clipson absent during the morning to attend funeral of relative.

Miss Hall absent during the afternoon with leave.

Mr F Corby visited.

The school will be closed on Monday and Tuesday next for half-term holiday.

Re-opened following half-term holiday.

Routine medical inspection commences.

Miss Winter absent this afternoon – indisposed.

Miss Winter returned.

Medical inspection continued.

Mr Reynolds absent today – he has sent to say he is suffering from influenza.

Medical certificate received from Mr Reynolds to certify he is suffering from erysipelas.

Mrs L Wildman reported for temporary duty this morning – with Mr Reynolds’ class.

Headmaster absent today with leave – Mr J Allen in charge.

Mr J Allen absent – indisposed.

Miss Watson absent – returned in the afternoon.

Mr Allen returned this morning.

Mr Dodge absent today, ill.

School closed today on account of the Royal wedding – Duke of Kent and Princess Marina.

Mr Dodge returned this morning.

Miss Stella Skinner has replaced Mrs Wildman in temporary duty visa Mr Reynolds

Miss Hall absent, ill.

Miss Hall returned this morning.

Miss Skinner has been withdrawn by the Education Office to take up duty elsewhere. 

Mrs L Wildman has reported for temporary duty this afternoon.

Miss Watson absent – indisposed.

Miss Watson returned in the afternoon.

School closed for Christmas holiday

School re-opened following holiday.

All the staff reported for duty.

Miss Drage absent – indisposed.

Miss Drage returned today.

Mr Allen absent today – indisposed.

Mr Allen returned today.

Mr F Corby of the Managers called today.

Mr Sugars of the Managers called this afternoon.

School will open at 1.15 this afternoon to allow the children to attend a showing of “Treasure Island” at the Cinema.

Miss Clipson absent – indisposed.

Miss Clipson returned this morning.

Ceased Duty as Headmaster today.
                                                E G Chilton Bolwell

I, G R Smith of the County Permanent Emergency Staff took temporary charge of this school this morning.

Intelligence test for A S E taken today in the hall.  Mr Dodge assisted.  To facilitate matters Tuesday and Monday afternoons’ lessons have been interchanged.

Robert Marriott received a kick in the playground during this afternoon’s break.  His lip was cut and first aid was rendered with materials available.

Ronald Ablett tripped over a piece of wood in the playground, left by workmen.  As he fell he fractured his collar bone.  The matter was not reported to me and the boy went home.  The parents of the child are satisfied that it was a pure accident. 

S A O called.

A S E was held this morning.  Miss Watson, Mr Allen and myself invigilated at Alfred St School while Mr Reid and one assistant from Alfred St invigilated here.

Miss Hall has been absent all day owing to illness.  Mr Reynolds has been absent this afternoon.  He has attended the funeral of his mother-in-law.  In consequence of these absences work has had to be re-arranged.  Needlework was not taken this afternoon.

Mr Reynolds and Miss Hall returned to duty this morning.

The School Dentist present today making routine inspection.

The school nurse called this morning and examined the heads of a number of children.

S A O called. 

Miss Clipson absent today owing to illness.

Medical certificate received from Miss Clipson.

Visited school checked registers and found all correct.
                                                                        F Green

Miss Edith Taylor reported for temporary service this afternoon.  She is taking charge of Miss Clipson’s class during her absence.

Dick Penn (ST 4) is suffering from a circular scab on the cheek.  I suspect ringworm.  He is seeing the Dr this evening so I told him to remain from school until he has seen the Dr.

S A O called.

Miss Taylor ceased duties here today.

Miss Clipson returned to duty this morning.

Miss Watson is suffering from Shingles and is absent from school.

Mrs Wildman reported for temporary service this afternoon.  She is taking charge of

Miss Watson’s class.

The manager of the Labour Exchange called this morning to interview certain girls who are leaving this term.

S A O called.

School closed this afternoon for Easter holidays.

School re-opened after the Easter vacation this morning.  Miss Watson is still too ill to attend school.  Mrs Wildman is still taking her place.  Special lessons will be given this week throughout the school during the History periods, on the Silver Jubilee and the chief events of the past 25 years.

Miss Drage is absent this afternoon – indisposed.  Mrs Wildman is taking her class and I am taking charge of Miss Watson’s class.

Miss Drage still absent.  Mrs Wildman has written to say she cannot return to school before Friday as there is sickness in her home.  I am taking Miss Drage’s class while the top class is divided between Mr Allen and Mr Reynolds.  Miss Edith taylor reported for temporary service this afternoon.  She is taking charge of Miss Drage’s class.

137 children attended a performance of “The Old Curiosity Shop” at the Picture Theatre this afternoon.  They were sent in the charge of Mr Dodge and Miss Hall.

Mr Abbott, Physical training Instructor, called this morning.

Miss Taylor ceased temporary duties.

School closed for Jubilee celebrations.

School re-opened this morning.

Miss Drage returned to duty.  Mr Allen absent owing to indisposition.  Mrs Wildman returned for temporary duty and is taking charge of Mr Allen’s class.

Mr Allen and Miss Watson returned to duty this morning.  Mr Dodge is absent.  He is suffering with a bad boil in the face.  Mrs Wildman is taking his class.

S A O called.

No Handicraft classes today.  The Instructor is absent taking examination.

Mrs Wildman ceased temporary duties here today.

Mr Dodge returned to school this morning.

Mr Abbott, Physical Training Instructor, called this morning.

John Bennett, Colin Penness and Ruth Underwood have been called for the oral examination at Wellingborough Grammar School on May 24^th.

Empire Day.  A service was held in the hall from 9.5 – 9.45.  A talk was given by the Headmaster on the Empire and its responsibilities. 

Mrs Woodhead H M I called this afternoon.

S A O called.

Miss Hall absent.  Her father ill.

Swimming Instruction at the Baths commenced today.  Miss Hall returned to duty this afternoon.

S A O called.

School closed at noon today for Whitsun holidays.

School re-opened today after Whitsun holidays.

School closed today (Sports Day).  The day proved so wet that the Sports had to be postponed.

School closed in afternoon.  Postponed sports.  The school retained the Holland cup.

Seven children gained the “Promotion Mark” in the A S E.

S A O called.

Visited school and found everything in order.  Checked registers and found correct.
                                                                                                F Green

With this entry I terminate my temporary service in this school.
                                                                                G R Smith

I, William A E Sherwood 16/216 commenced duty as Head Teacher.

Staff meeting at close of afternoon school.

First lesson of Friday afternoon interchanged with this afternoon’s first lesson.

Mr Allen absent today, attending weekend course at Peterborough.

Mr F Corby called pm.

Mr Parker H M I called this afternoon.

School closed this afternoon. 

51 children left school – 30 for work, 2 to Secondary schools and 19 for the Intermediate School.

School re-opened today after the Summer holidays.

55 children admitted.

Mr Reynolds absent – ill am, returned pm.

An accident occurred in the playground at 3.5pm.  John Darnell fell from a beam in the woodwork shed and injured his wrist.  The Head teacher attended to him and then took him across the road to Mrs Minney an experienced ambulance woman who placed the arm in splints.  The lad was afterwards taken to Dr Topping who found that a small bone in the wrist was broken.  Mr Allen and Mr Dodge were in the playground at the time.  Boys had been warned about climbing beams in the shed.  Letter was sent to Northampton asking for form on which to enter particulars of accident.

Form giving details of above mishap forwarded to Northampton.

Mr E A Sugars called am.

School closed – Feast holiday.

Miss Drage absent am, returned pm.

Visited school checked register and found everything in order.
                                                                                F Green

Six senior pupils accompanied by Miss Watson and Headmaster last evening attended the Urban District council Meeting.

Miss Clipson absent today.

Miss T M Mantle commenced temporary duty.

Mr F Corby called this morning.

Miss Goldstone P T organiser visited today and took several girls’ classes in new P T syllabus.

Mrs J T Harrod of the League of Nations Union addressed the senior scholars am.

Torrential rain from 8.30 to 9am lowered percentage attendance to 83%.  Improvement in the afternoon.

School closed this afternoon until Thursday Nov 7^th – Nov 4^th and 5^th – half-term holiday. Nov 6^th on the occasion of the wedding of the Duke of Gloucester.

Two minutes silence duly observed.  Short service was held from 10.55 to 11.10 am in commemoration of Armistice Day.

Mr H N Parker H M I visited am and pm.

School closed on account of General Election.

Medical inspection am.                    18 children

     ,,          ,,       am & pm             36        ,,

     ,,          ,,       am & pm             36        ,,

    ,,          ,,        am & pm             36        ,,

   ,,          ,,         am & pm             38        ,,

Mr F Corby, Chairman of Managers, called.

Miss mantle ceased temporary duty.

Miss Clipson returned to school.

An accident occurred in the yard at 3.5pm to Kenneth Ireson who collided with another boy.  Ireson’s glasses were broken and a nasty gash was made by the broken glass above his left eye.  Head teacher bathed the wound and took the lad to 4 doctors who unfortunately were out; to the Cottage Hospital where there appeared to be no one about, and to Mrs Minney, Cromwell Rd.  She further attended to the lad who was taken at 4.45 by the Head teacher to Dr Muriset, who inserted two clips into the wound.  Letter was sent to the Office for the necessary form.

An “Open Afternoon” was held this afternoon.  Many parents and friends availed themselves of the opportunity of seeing the children at their ordinary work and inspecting the children’s work in needlework, handwork, woodwork etc.

Public concerts were given in the school hall in the evenings.  Large numbers of parents and friends attended and were loud in their praises of the children’s efforts.  Mr F Corby, Chairman of the Managers presided on the 18^th, and Mr Green, Vice-Chairman, on the 19^th.

Visited school, checked registers and found all in order.
                                                                F Green

Scholl closed for Xmas holidays.

14 pupils left school.

School re-opened.

Mr F Mitchell H M I called am.

Messrs E A Sugars and E Freeman, School Managers, visited pm.

Mr W H Abbott called this morning.

Miss Scott, of the Dental Board of the United Kingdom, lectured to the senior classes this morning.

At morning assembly Head teacher referred to the death of King George V.  Mr F Corby, Chairman of Managers, visited pm.

School attendance lower this week – 86.1% owing to numbers of children suffering from colds.

Mr Mitchell, H M I, visited school am and pm.

School closed – funeral of the late King George V.

Mr F Mitchell, H M I, visited school am and pm.

Mr A Woodhead, H M I, visited am and pm.

Seven children of Class Senior 4, accompanied by Miss Watson, attended the Urban District Council Buildings where an enquiry by a Ministry of Health official was held with regard to a loan for additional water supply for the town.

Mr Woodhead paid another visit of inspection.

Mr F Corby called this morning.

Messrs H N Parker and F Mitchell called pm.

Mr Reynolds absent – indisposed.

Mr Reynolds returned to duty.

Intelligence test for A S E taken today.  66 out of 72 entrants took part.

Miss Hall absent – indisposed.

Mr F J Thorpe called this afternoon.

Miss Hall returned to duty.

Two parcels containing exam papers for A S E arrived this morning.  One parcel had the seal broken and was immediately handed back to the postman, who promised to see that the parcel was officially sealed.  Later the parcel was delivered officially sealed.

A S E was held this morning.  Mr Ash and an assistant from South End were invigilators here, whilst Head teacher and Miss Osborne acted as invigilators at Alfred St.

Mr F Corby, Chairman of Managers, visited am.

Visited school checked registers and found all correct.
                                                                F Green

Miss Winter absent, indisposed.

Miss Winter returned to duty.

School closed this afternoon for the Easter holidays.

School re-opened.

Mr F Corby, Chairman of managers, called am.

Report by Mr H N Parker H M I on the inspection on 27^th & 29^th Jan and 4^th and 5^th Feb’36.

Mixed

The new Headmaster who, after a short period in charge of another Council school in the town, commenced duties here in July last has made a promising start.  The school now contains 343 scholars, mainly recruited in their ninth year from the adjacent Infants’ department, who are divided into nine classes.  An attempt has been made to organise these classes as far as possible on an age basis, but considerations such as staffing and the size of the various age groups, has prevented this plan from being carried out entirely.  Similar considerations at present also prevent a clear cut at the age of eleven and the even flow of both Junior and Senior classes either in a single or in double streams.  The Headmaster is, however, fully aware, not only of the difficulties, but also of an ideal at which to aim , and, by a gradual progress he hopes in time to attain a classification which will be more in accordance with his wishes.

Since his appointment he has redrafted the Schemes of Work entirely in several subjects and partially in others.  From those which have already been done it would appear that when the revision has been completed the curriculum should be sufficiently broad and well graded to meet the requirements of a school of this type.  Certain activities are of necessity restricted as for example Physical Training as the hall is used as a classroom and the wet surfaces of the playgrounds prevent these lessons being taken out of doors in inclement weather.

In addition to the use of the hall for class teaching a classroom in the separate building used by the Infants’ Department has been “borrowed” and is occupied by the lowest class of juniors.

The staff consists of experienced teachers, some of them with many years of service.  They are conscientious and painstaking and make every effort to keep abreast of modern educational methods.  In this they co-operate willingly with the headmaster, who exercises a careful supervision over every phase of the life of the school.

Both juniors and seniors are well behaved in the classrooms.  They are friendly, easy of approach, responsive and eager to answer.  As prefects some of the older boys and girls give assistance to the teachers in the conduct of the school.

English The junior classes receive a careful training in Reading and a constant effort is made by the teachers to improve enunciation in reading aloud and rcitation.  The importance of good literature is stressed and a suitable selection of books has been made for class study by the older scholars, who showed that this study is effective by the knowledge displayed when they were questioned orally and also in compositions written during the inspection.

Written compositions were set in all classes.  These showed that the teaching is systematic and, in most cases, successful; some of the work in the top classes was particularly pleasing.

In order to encourage fluency of oral expression one teacher has introduced simple dramatization.  Another has allowed boys and girls to give talks on topics of interest and to participate in simple discussions.

Arithmetic

Juniors  The children of the upper group in Junior 5 are alert; their written work is neat and their response to oral questioning was very creditable.  On the other hand the lower section appears to have mixed instruction in the fundamentals.  This is being repaired and the Mistress is to be congratulated on the conscientious manner in which she is teaching a class so varied in ability.  In the remaining classes some attempt is being made to achieve, in the subject, a level of attainment more nearly approaching the normal.  Weaknesses still exist in the manipulation of number and in the ready use of tables.  This was particularly noticeable in Junior 3.

Seniors  A sensible differentiation is made in the syllabuses for boys and girls in Senior 3 and Senior 4.  The girls from these classes are taught “Household Arithmetic” by a capable and experienced teacher who is experimenting in both matter and method.  It is yet too early to pass a considered opinion on the value of the work.  It can only be said that it seems to promise well provided that too great a proportion of the time is not spent on the pictorial side with a consequent loss of practice in actual calculations.  In the remaining senior classes some useful work is being done though weaknesses were exposed when dealing with percentages.  Systematic revision of earlier work together with stimulating oral Arithmetic appears to be required.

Nature Study  Some time is given to nature Study in each class in the lower part of the school and in Junior 4 a special syllabus of Hygiene is being followed.  On the whole the instruction is sound and the vivid illustrations made by the teacher in Junior 5 are very helpful.  It is perhaps unfortunate that no provision is made for excursion to the countryside.

Science  In the Senior classes the boys take a course in General Elementary Science and the girls receive instruction in Household Science.  In the absence of a science room practical work is difficult, but the Master responsible for General Elementary Science gives careful demonstrations and calls upon some of the boys to take part in them.  Notes are carefully written up and a knowledge of underlying principles attained.  In each class questions on the ground covered were answered with intelligence and principles clearly applied to fresh problems.  The girls have assimilated the subject matter of their lessons on personal hygiene.

Music  The older children showed a ready acquaintance with Staff notation and sang sweetly from a wide repertoire.

History  The scheme of work in History is comprehensive and progressive, though more attention might be paid to local references.  The children appear to have been interested and, at all stages, show a good knowledge of the more recent lessons.  The time charts, which are in evidence in each classroom, might be used effectively to revive the general aspects of the earlier work from time to time.

Illustrative material is also available in each class.  In order that the teaching of Civics may be made more real parties of the oldest scholars have witnessed meetings of the local council and have seen other civic institutions at work.

Geography  A good knowledge of the substance of the Geography schemes is displayed by the children at all stages.  The presence of blank maps of the regions under survey in each classroom should assist the teaching of locational knowledge, which varies from class to class.  In this subject, as in History, use is made of illustrative material, including pictures and wrappers, many of which are collected by the scholars.  An interesting map of the town of Rushden has been constructed by the members of the top class to illustrate a survey which they have made of local industries.

Drawing  Pastel and pencil are the media employed in the Junior classes and in Junior 4 an attempt, worthy of note, has been made to introduce the elements of design.  Some of the specimens in each class showed promise, but illustrations would probably benefit if technique were first considered and in both Junior 3 and Junior 4 a properly graded course of instruction is desirable.

In Senior 1 and Senior 2 the subject is well taught by a gifted teacher who succeeds in developing his pupils a high degree of skill and appreciation of colour, whilst the drawings seen in Senior 3 and Senior 4 include many of real merit.  Practical drawing is taken by the boys of the upper forms.  The syllabus is comprehensive but it should be possible to introduce projections in Senior 1 and, if full value is to be derived from the courses, it is essential that drawing boards and tee squares are provided.

Handwork  Varied occupations are provided for the Junior children and progress is made, but it is worth the consideration of the Headmaster whether it would not be more fruitful to introduce a type of Handwork which would not only be suitable for these young children, but would also prepare them for the Bookcrafts now being taught from Junior 3 upwards.  An excellent start has been made in the subject.  The master responsible is attending a sessional course and shows much enthusiasm.  In a short space of time he has achieved much and there is every reason to believe that the work will develop along sound lines.

Woodwork  Instruction in Woodwork at a Centre on the premises and most of the boys get a two-year course under a qualified teacher who has done much to make the room as attractive as possible in the circumstances.  A preliminary course, designed to promote facility and accuracy in tool technique is followed by constructive work in both hard and soft woods.  The course has been carefully planned and yields creditable results.  Some of the second year work seen was well designed, soundly constructed and tastefully finished.  The equipment is well kept and a wise use is made of the available time.

The boys appear keenly interested and in their white aprons assume a workmanlike attitude towards the craft.  It is unfortunate that there is no storeroom either for timber or finished work.

Domestic Science  Thirty two Senior girls are at present receiving instruction on one half-day each week at the Domestic Centre at the Intermediate School.

                                Signed:                   F Green
                                                                Chairman of Managers

Miss Goulston, P T Organiser, visited this morning and saw several classes at Physical Training.

Nurse Wilkins called am to carry out routine inspections.

Mr Reynolds absent today – indisposed.

Mr Reynolds returned am.

Reginald Clayton and Betty Whitby have been called for the oral examination – Special places award at Wellingborough Grammar School on Friday May 22^nd.

Senior 4 class were this morning taken round the Rushden Gas Works by Mr A T Watson, Manager of Gas Works.  The children were accompanied by Miss Watson.

Reginald Clayton attended Wellingborough Grammar School for oral test and was marked.  The parents of Betty Whitby did not wish her to attend.

Class Senior 3 with Mr Allen visited the Rushden Gas Works this morning where they were shown round by Mr A T Watson, Manager.

From 3.15pm to 3.45pm Senior children listened to a broadcast from the “Queen Mary” on the commencement of her maiden voyage to New York.

Mr F Green, Chairman of Managers, called this morning.

School closed at noon for Whitsun holiday.

School re-opened.

School closed today – School Sports.

Sports postponed on account of rain.

School closed this afternoon – School Sports carried out.  Joan Ainge secured gold medal as Champion Girl.

School closed – School journey to Windsor.

Visited school checked registers and found all correct.
                                                                F Green

The following letter was received from Mr J L Holland to whom a handbook, produced by the handwork and art classes, for use in connection with educational visit to Windsor had been sent.

22^nd June 1936

Dear Sir

Thank you for the copy of the hand guide which you have issued in preparation for the visit to Windsor tomorrow.  It is both useful and elegant and the children will, I am sure, keep their copies as a momento of what I hope will prove an enjoyable outing.  Somebody must have been at considerable trouble in its preparation.  I get particulars of a good many educational visits during the Summer months, but I have not seen one which was prepared in such detail and was as neatly turned out.

I hope you will all have a good day tomorrow, and particularly that the weather will be kind.  At the moment it looks as though you will be spared the storms which have spoiled the last two or three days for us.

                                                Yours faithfully
                                                             J L Holland
                                                                       Secretary for Education

Mr Allen absent today – indisposed.

Mr Allen returned today.

Mr H N Parker H M I called pm and stayed most of the afternoon.

Mr W H Abbott called am.

Miss Norman called pm.

A Special Place has been offered to Reginald Clayton at W’boro’ Grammar School.

School closed this afternoon on occasion of County Cricket Match at Rushden.

Heavy downpour of rain affected this morning’s attendance.

Headmaster left school at 3 o’clock with Chairman of Managers’ permission – in charge of Northants children competing in National Sports at Margate.

Joan Ainge tied for third place in the high jump at National Sports on 18^th inst.

Mr W G Dodge is attending Handwork course at Derby.  Mrs Wildman is taking his class.

Miss Sugars, a teacher in training, commenced a period of teaching practice.

School closed this afternoon – Swimming Sports.

Four girls took part this afternoon in the Rowell Swimming Cup at Rothwell.  They were accompanied by Miss Hall.  Girls were marked present in the registers in accordance with instructions from Northampton.

The above team was defeated in the final by Rushden Intermediate.

School closed this afternoon for the Summer holidays.  Mrs Wildman ceased duty.

School re-opened.  All the staff present.

51 children admitted.

Miss Sugars commenced another week’s teaching practice.

School closed – Feast holiday.

The senior scholars assembled in the main room for an interesting ceremony at 11.40 this morning.  A radiogramophone was switched on by Mr F Green, Chairman of the Managers, accompanied by Mr L Beates, another manager.

Cost of instrument 23 guineas, raised by local effort.

Visited school checked register and found all correct.
                                                                     F Green

Miss Clipson absent, ill

Miss Clipson returned.

Mr Reynolds away from school – in charge of children from the Rushden schools visiting London for the Shoe and Leather Fair, on the invitation of Mr W E Capon.

Head teacher was absent for a part of the day – on account of death of a relative.

Mr Dodge was absent for part of the afternoon – visiting Bective Senior School Northampton to view bookcrafts taken there.

Mr Reynolds absent, ill.

Mr G H Stock commenced temporary duty.

Mr Stock ceased duty.

Mr Reynolds returned to school.

A mishap occurred in the main hall at 10.45 this morning to Edna Holyoak, who was preparing to play the piano, as she had done on many occasions, for children going to their rooms at the end of recreation period.  She tried to move the piano a little – pupils who use the piano have been told many times not to try to move the piano unless a teacher is assisting, when it tippled over catching her left foot underneath.  Head teacher was talking to boys near the door leading to the main room when a crash was heard.  He immediately rushed into the room and found what had happened.  He attended to the girl’s foot which appeared rather badly bruised.  Mrs Minney, an experienced ambulance woman, further attended to her.  At 11.45 Head teacher took her home and explained to her mother what had happened.

School closed for half-term holiday.

School re-opened this morning.

Medical inspection 39 children.

    ,,          ,,        39      ,,     .

    ,,          ,,        38      ,,     .

The whole school assembled this morning in the main room at 10.50 and listened to the Remembrance Service broadcast from the cenotaph.  No one could have failed to be impressed by the reverent manner in which the children listened to the impressive service.

Mr H N Parker H M I visited the school.

Received conformation this morning that Ella Richardson had secured a 2^nd prize, and Sheila Elton a certificate in the National Needlecraft Exhibition organised by “The Teachers’ World”.  Remainder of the work sent up was highly commended.

Six senior children accompanied by Miss Watson attended the meeting of Rushden Urban District Council last evening.

Visited school, checked registers and found all correct.
                                                                F Green

Mr A T Watson, Manager of Rushden Gas Co. and Mr L Sanders, (director) visited the school this morning to distribute prizes won in a Essay Competition in connection with a recent exhibition.  Prizes were handed to Betty Laughton (1^st), Evelyn Dickerson (2^nd), Lily Darnell, Grace Mackness, Gwen Newell and Lily Garley.

Mr Woodhead H M I called pm.

This evening “A Christmas carol” was presented at the Annual School Concert in the main room before a packed audience.

Closed at 4.15 for Christmas holidays.