Stratford Primary School Virtual Time Capsule

Edward Thomas Evans (Head Master 1881 – 1888)

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 01:05:00 +0000

(Thanks to Jack Evans, our elder participant at the 2007 Jubilee for sharing this family history)

Birthday Celebrations

Mrs E. Evans 80 Years Old

Family Gathering

Long Residence in Stratford (circa 1924)

The 80 the anniversary of Mrs Elizabeth Evan’s Birthday was the occasion yesterday of a gathering of all the members of her family – six in number – and including a son whom she has not seen for 14 years.

Mrs Evans, whose home is in Portia Street, has lived in Stratford since 1884 and she has very vivid recollections of those days.

The members of the family present at the reunion gathering yesterday were
Mr Evan Evans Hawera
Mrs H. Pitt Stratford
Mr D P Evans New Plymouth
Mr R P Evans Nelson
Mr E D Evans Stratford
Mrs A R Masters Stratford

There were also present seven of Mrs Evans 26 grandchildren and a friend of 1884 days at Stratford, Mrs Gardiner. The day was spent quietly, Mrs Evans not being allowed too much strenuous exercise, although she thinks nothing of early rising and baking and her hearing and eyesight are unimpaired.

Mrs Evan, who married Mr Edward Thomas Evans in North Wales, came with him to Port Chalmers in the ship Cospatric in 1873. There were 44 passengers on the ship which had a cargo of gunpowder and racehourses, and then returned to England to bring out 500 immigrants. Unfortunately the Cospatric was burnt at sea and all the crew lost except the first mate and third mate who rowed 500 miles before being picked up.

In her 61 years of life in New Zealand, Mrs Evans has had many changes. For six months she lived at Dunedin while Mr Evans looked for a farm. Then came North to Egmont Village and farmed there until 1880. “There was nothing in farming in those days,” said Mrs Evans “and my husband, in common with many others lost all his money.”

That made things hard for the young couple but Mr Evans secured a post in Webster Brothers shipping office for nine months until the farm went bankrupt.

The school was worth only ($140) a year said Mrs Evans but there was no rent to pay and they managed all right. After 15 months there they went to Okato for about 2 years and then were transferred to Stratford in 1881.

Wild and Rough Settlement
Stratford of those days was a wild and rough settlement. The school house was at the present school site and it was impossible to get to Newton King’s at Broadway and Fenton Street intersection without being completely bogged. The school was large however, there were 100 children and three teachers, Messrs Johnson, Butler and King.

After seven years teaching at Stratford, Mr Evans died leaving Mrs Evans with a family of six, of which the oldest 18 and the youngest 2 years. Mrs Evans brought all up, living in a house on her property, which is now the Avon Bowling Clubs green and always had the best garden in Stratford.

Media Team Wrap Up

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 03:50:00 +0000

The S.P.S. Media Team met for the final time today to wrap up their work of the last few weeks. We had a little party and watched slideshows of the pictures and videos of the Jubilee weekend. It was great to have our students out and about amongst the Jubilee participants recording this historic weekend.
Kelvin Squire, Principal, acknowledged their contributions by presenting our Secondary Students with an S.P.S. school pen and expressing his thanks on behalf of the school. Our younger students had already received a 'Birthday Present' at school last week.

The Media Team's last official duties today were to reflect on the events of the Jubilee and write a few words for the Stratford Press. Here is what they had to say:

This year the year 7-8 students went down to the hall and role played like it was 125 years ago. We lined up and Miss Coffey called us into the hall one by one. Mr Williams dictated a poem and we had to write it exactly as he said. Our desks were all lined up in rows. We got yelled at by the teachers. We had a spelling test. We all had to try and take it seriously. A student had to get the ruler and pretended to strap with it. He broke the ruler. I’m really glad we don’t have the strap anymore and the teachers are lots nicer these days.
by Jessie Isaacs Y8

I thought the 125^th jubilee was a good idea because it rejoined old classmates and got previous students who used to go to this school to come back and see how the school has changed. Every one who came had fun and enjoyed themselves lots. In class we have been studying what it was like in 1882 by role playing and working like they used to back in the old days.
By Kimberly Madden Y8

The Jubilee was fun because I got to see people who came to this school over the last 70 years and see them catch up with their old mates. It was a success. The War Memorial Centre looked awesome and it looked like everyone was having a good time. I have learnt a lot about the history of our school over the past few weeks such as the school fire in the 1950s, and the big snow days in the 1970s & 1980s
By Hamish Walker Y9 (Stratford High)

I reckon that the jubilee was cool because lots of people came to our school and had photos, food and watched a little girl cut the Jubilee cake.
By Kieran George Y6

My thoughts on the jubilee are…It was great to see a lot of people take interest in their old primary school. Everyone had put a lot of hard work into it and it turned out to be a successful weekend.
By Courtney Cheer Y9 (Stratford High)

It was well set up by the organizers. It was good seeing people getting involved that haven’t been to the school for at least 40-50 years. It was cool watching people that haven’t seen each other for like 20 years or more meet each other again and trying to figure out the names of people. It was good for the school to be noticed and got out there.
By Sam Mako Y10 (Stratford High)

Stratford Primary School did a great job in organizing the event. Everyone that took part and attended it seemed to think it was a great success. The events were well thought out and were very popular in the community.
By Francie Clarkson Y10 (Stratford High)

It was great for the school to hold a massive event like the 125^th Jubilee. It was fun to see people that came to this school a long time ago. Some of the people have not seen each other for over 50 years. I have learnt a lot about Stratford Primary School during the 125^th Jubilee.
By Cameron Cox Y7

Share Your Jubilee Photos

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 07:09:00 +0000

Thanks to Darryl Hodson for sharing his Jubilee Weekend photos. You can find these on the Flickr website or view them here. You will need to have broadband and wait for a couple of minutes for photos to load. If you would like to share your photos you can send them to the school or put them on the Internet yourself with the tag spsjubilee07.

Welcome Home to S.P.S.

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 09:02:00 +0000

William Shakespeare once said, “For what is a city but for the people?” Likewise I ask, “For what is our school but for you people?” The bricks and mortar here have no meaning without you – you are Stratford Primary School – past and present - and I know that we all make our mark in varying ways while at school, (more often than not carved into the top of a desk!), and leave a little of ourselves behind when we go, but we all take so much more away with us at the end of our time here.
I see familiar faces out there – only some familiar to me though, but all familiar to someone in this hall, because we all have something in common. We are all a part of the history of Stratford Primary School.
This weekend realises 125 years of education for Stratford Primary School – thank you all for being here to share in this milestone for our school and for our town!
The Jubilee Committee has been working hard since 2004 to provide the forum for an exciting weekend of celebrations - I take this opportunity to extend a very warm welcome to all those “upright and loyal” old pupils and staff, and friends with varied connections to Stratford Primary School, for a special few days renewing friendships and sharing memories of a special time and place in our lives.
The next few days will no doubt be filled with chit-chat and memories, and laughter, and even tears.
Ex-pupils and staff will meet up again – how will the years have treated us all? Teachers will look the same to students, but students will be a little more difficult for teachers’ to recognise - what with a few inches added to their height (& waist!), a few whiskers or grey hairs, a bit of life experience, and a few decades or more added to their school age!
Dedicated Principals’, staff and school committee and board members, along with a supportive school community, have provided for many successes for Stratford Primary School over the years. We are very proud of all that our school has been in the past and all that it strives to be in the future.
It always has been such a great place to learn and a fun place to be – what a quality school!
May the spirit of friendship and goodwill be with you all over this Jubilee weekend – we trust that this will be a happy and memorable occasion for you all!
Viv Lett
JUBILEE CHAIRPERSON
Welcome Speech - Opening Ceremony

Presentation for the Stratford Primary School Jubilee, June 2007. Featuring 8mm film clips of the school in the 1930s taken by Lewis Mervyn Fairbrother, Deputy Headmaster, 1937 -1939. Thanks to Ralph Fairbrother for donating this DVD to Stratford Primary School.

The Great Fire of S.P.S.

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 09:00:00 +0000

Many thanks to Warwick Pettigrew for this film clip taken by his father Archie of the Great Fire of S.P.S. circa late 1950s.

Thank Yous

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 08:48:00 +0000

"A moment to pause, reflect on an amazing weekend of celebration but most of all, time to acknowledge all those people who gave of their time, skills and energy to make the Jubilee Celebrations possible.
Know that it has been all appreciated.
Thank you so much each and everyone of you.
Best Wishes
Dianne Suisted (Kirkby)"

"Many, many thanks for the Queen's Birthday Celebrations. Words cannot amply express the enjoyment of meeting old school friends again, after five, six decades in my case.
Tim Wingate"

"To The Chairperson, Your Committee and all the volunteers. A big Thank You for the weekend celebrations. Fromm Friday night til after the church service on Sunday, all was enjoyed. Lots to ponder over. Lots of laughter and happy memories. Couldn't even fault the weather! Glad to be there.
Thank you again,
Margaret Pengelly (nee Webb)
Past Pupil"

Miss Coles 1954 - 1956

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 08:41:00 +0000

A Jubilee is a wonderful time to renew friendships and it is with deep regret that I am unable to share such a time with my past pupils and friends due to a family wedding.
I shall be delighted if any of my past pupils should want to contact me.
Mrs Barbara Walter
(Please use the email on this site if you wish to make contact)

Virtual Time Capsule

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 08:12:00 +0000

Jubilee Weekend is over & what a great weekend with lots of laughter & reminiscing. This site will continue as a Virtual Time Capsule to celebrate the history of Stratford Primary School. Check back in as more video, audio & pictures are uploaded here and to our Photo Gallery. Please contribute either by emailing us with your memories, pictures or video or by clicking on any of the comments button that appears at the bottom of each article on this site.

Greetings From A Past Teacher

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 08:10:00 +0000

Wishing you all a great time celebrating and reminiscing. Wish I could be with you but family commitments have prevented it. I see by the Registration list that some of my Standard 3 pupils of 1973 & 1974 will be
attending:-
Greetings to you. The first two years of my teaching career were with you, and I have happy memories of many fun times - (hope you do too), especially the Hangi at my parents place and the game of softball in the neighbours paddock amongst the thistles and cow pats!!
You may wonder what happened to me... I am married to Alan Curtis and we have two sons, now aged 17 and 20. I am still teaching, and love it. I am Deputy Principal at St Joseph's School, Hawera and have always lived in south Taranaki. Throughout the years I have been able to keep up with news of some of you and your families through the local newspapers. I often wonder where my pupils went, in the world, and what careers they now have.
Greetings also to my colleagues from those years. Golly, how teaching has changed over the years. As a beginning teacher in 1973 there was no such thing as a Tutor Teacher, Year 1 Release, or CRT. We are fortunate to now have a system that supports all teachers in practical ways, especially those beginning their career.
Once again, have a great weekend.
Kind regards
Carol Hiles-Smith (now Carol Curtis)

What past teachers have said:

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Wed, 30 May 2007 08:05:00 +0000

Les Taylor 1954-1980

“On my arrival at Stratford Primary School in 1954 I was greatly impressed by the magnificence of the buildings and their setting, but as I walked down the main corridor with the then newly appointed Headmaster, Mr Pattison, I remember him asking me if I had noticed anything unusual about the school. All the desks were the very old, heavy, double-lift type, battered and ink-stained and the teachers desks were of similar vintage and condition. They certainly looked out of place in those new rimu-panelled classrooms. As a new-comer to the staff, however, those beautiful new rooms were not for me. I was banished to one of a row of four pre-fabite classrooms set well behind and below the main school buildings. The floors of the prefabs were of pine and so were peppered with holes where the knots had fallen out. You can imagine the draughts that whistled up through them. And when it rained on those unlined roofs the din drowned out any attempts to talk.”

Quote Stratford Primary School Centennial book.

Marie Wall (nee Peik) Pupil to Teacher

Stratford Primary School in the 1930s.

“Many of the children at that time came from families hard hit by the slump. A few lived in tents, (through Stratford winters); a few more went from door to door asking for old clothes, and yet I remember only two “solo” families as they would now be called, and the suppers provided by parents for the annual Fancy Dress Ball.”

Quote Stratford Primary School Centennial book.

Did You Know?

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Wed, 30 May 2007 07:58:00 +0000

some of the trees from the Fenton Street SPS site were moved to the current site? This included a well-grown Kauri tree?
in the early 1950’s the Education Board started planning for another primary school in Stratford?
by the early 1950’s the roll had risen to 690 students?
in 1953 pupils were supervised to build the concrete fish pond?
in 1954 the school opened with a roll of 730 and a staff of 17!
In 1951 four pre-fabricated classrooms were erected down the hill from Rooms 14 and 15?
although the school buildings were newly built the children’s desk were very old, heavy, and battered, as were the teacher’s tables?
the new locatable classrooms were tendered for in 1975, and arrived soon after.
The school library opened in 1975?

Memories: Audrey Melville (Jones)

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sat, 26 May 2007 01:04:00 +0000

"... I was taken back many years when I read Ngaire Anderson (Vossler's) Memories with the mention of all the teachers' names. I remember Ngaire very well and the only teacher whose name I cannot recall - he was very short just the opposite to Lofty Morrison. He taught me in Standard Six - only five girls and over thirty boys - huge class for a little man. In the back of my mind the name Mr. Bone keeps appearing but whoever it was he knew how to use the strap - I know because I only ever got the strap twice and both for talking when he answered the door. Excellent teacher as all were really. Mrs Anderson taught me in Standard One - a very stern teacher but very fair. While with her we had quite a big earthquake and we were told to run out past the school building through the area where the swing was and down to the bottom of the grass area. This little girl unfortunately fell over and put her knees through her new black woollen stockings - not a very good reception when I got home.
My school days started in July 1926, our family lived at 82 Ariel Street then moved to Wellington in 1943. We were a family of four - I am the eldest, my sister Peggy who lived in the United States for just on sixty years and passed away two years ago. Rex now lives in Nelson and the youngest Monty now lives in the Brisbane area. My father (Percy Jones) was a Tailor in the town and my working days started in the Office of Manoys (4 years) and then I moved to G.A. Carter's Accountants Office (four years) before the family moved to Wellington, where we lived in Karori. I now live in Wellington.
Congratulations and best wishes for a wonderful weekend, will be thinking of you all, hope the weather is kind and Mt Taranaki stands out proud. I would love to hear from anyone who is interested and also any info available.
Sincerely Audrey Melville (nee) Jones"

Media Team Meets For The First Time

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 21 May 2007 02:32:00 +0000

This is the Media Team for the SPS Jubilee. The people at the back are from Stratford High School and are ex Stratford Primary School pupils.

Today we looked at how to work the cameras and we had a look at the site for the jubilee. Mr Squire showed us on google earth where people have been looking at the web site from in the world.

Old Friends "Memories"

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Sun, 13 May 2007 09:36:00 +0000

The following posts are a compilation of snippets from the Old Friends website from past students beginning in the 1940s through to the present day. These are just a few of the many memories posted on the site that i found the most interesting. One theme that runs through all the memories found online is the people. The classmates, teachers, principals of SPS that made our years at school so memorable time.

1940s

Memories of teachers, Tony Breen, Betty Amess, Mrs Darling and Mr Taylor(Head).
The Cocoa Shed where we had lunch. The Annual Fancy Dress Ball with the Grand March in the Town Hall. Air raid practice in the trenches over in Victoria Park.

I started with my best friend in Mrs Chadwick's class. Later Miss Burkett taught us. We walked to school by ourselves and had to cross the main street and also the railway lines to get there. Sometimes we dodged cattle being driven to the stockyards over the road from school.

I started in the old Fenton Street Block with Mrs Chadwick. Mrs Turnbull, Miss Brogden(who I later taught with) and Miss Birkett were the other Junior schoolteachers. Mrs Anderson and Mrs McCullogh then Bill Curtain. The New School opened but we had to stay in the old brick building as there were insufficent rooms on the new site. Wirth Circus visited during the Std 4 year with Tommy Hodder and a Meteor jet plane flew around the clock tower. Les McGuiness and Tony Breen were my teachers at Regan Street. Tom Jackson was the Headmaster. My father was School Committee Chairman for two terms.

Started at the OLD school where the bath's were and the woodwork shop. Then to the new school when it opened on Regan St.Thos B. Jackson was the Headmaster. Teachers were Ernie Lee, Miss Papps, Miss Pike etc etc.It's a long time ago. Took pride in being a School Patrol Warden under the training of Traffic Officer George Scholes.

Stratford Primary was the school I attended prior to the Avon Primary School being built in Regan Street.It was located across the road from the old Municipal Baths in Cloton Road, and we also attended the techical classes where we learnt woodwork and the girls learnt how to cook. Boy they needed some practice, some of the cooking was atrocious from memory. Across the road was Victoria Park named after Queen Victoria and for many years the school sports were held there including the Taranaki Schools Championships.

Started at the old school in Fenton St.then on to be a 1st day pupil in the new school in Regan St. Teachers remembered are Mr. Lee and Miss Pyke Mr. Jackson headmaster and he started the recorder group and we came to New Plymouth and performed on the local radio. Enjoyed sports was in the schools basketball team (now netball.)All pupils enjoyed the Coronation Luncheon held in Kleeman and Bishops Garage on Coronation Day, a great occassion.

1950s

Started at Kindy next to the old Prestige Building on Fenton Street. Alison Stevens was my teacher. From there went to Stratford Primary under Miss Dunn...,until Avon School was completed. We lived on the south side of the Patea River. Because of my residential location I was requirement to then go to Avon School.

Started as a 5 year old and finished at the end of Standard 3 then went to the new Avon School.

Again only there a short time,riding to school up Regan St on a threewheeler,getting the strap for rubbing out with my finger,the Queens corronation,school fancy dress ball,hands knees and bumpsadaisy,Jack and the beanstalk,hail storm,but cannot remember any names.

P2: A teacher I can't remember. (Just standing in the corridor because I couldn't tell the time her way….

Miss Dunn was my first teacher in the primmers. We all used to have an afternoon sleep on a mat on the floor. Left to go to Avon School when it opened

Stuffing the goldfish full of bread crumbs

I especially remember Les Baker's stories of being in the Battle of Britain. And getting the strap from Mrs Dunn when I was in Tiny Tots. (I'm not sure if I've got either of those names right!)

Miss Belsey. Best teacher I ever had, even though she had little faith in my abilities.

The highlight of each year was the Fancy Dress Ball,Iwas the leader of the Grand March for the last 2 years,what an honour & treat. A special treat.Kids miss out on these old fashioned experiences these days.

1960s

Remember lining up for assembly outside the main office and reciting the Lords Prayer.

I got caught by Fred Cutler sliding down the Staffroom bannister rail. He was not a happy chappy and neither was I !

Just loved the milk every day,especially if it had been in the sun for a few hours, in those wee bottles. And the first years, always had an lay down in the afternoon, guess those days are long gone.!!!!

I loved that fish pond, but I suppose it's gone now.

My first teacher was Miss Hazlett - she was wonderful. (Thank God I didn't have Miss Shannon!)Had some wonderful years at SPS - favourite teachers were Barry Pugh and Gordon Gray.

Marching off from assembly to piped military music, manual with the scary Mr.Dyer, Mr Cutler always playing the violin at the balls, school milk,

MISS SHANNON!! my worst nightmare. Can you imagine your first day at school and being slapped on the wrist because you were unable to put the right amount of buttons under the right number. Well i'm not sure if it was on my first day at school but it's something I have never forgotten. BUT I do remember drinking milk and one year going to the annual fancy dress concert. I dreamed of going as a fairy, can you imagine my disappointment when my mother made me go in maori costume. Instead of a beautiful pink tutu, i wore traditional flax Never forgave her for that. Today though I would be proud to show off my heritage. Oh by the way i have been digging deep in the recessess of my mind and i think my very first teacher was Miss Stringer not Shannon. Oh well that's age for you.

I remember the fancy dress/dance to which twin sister Bev and I went as the Queen of hearts and diamonds. I remember someone writing 'poo' on one of our rulers!

I really started at school when I was a baby; there was a teacher shortage and both my parents taught there in the early days - I used to sleep in a cot in the storeroom & be wheeled around in the push chair by the kids at playtime when I wasn't "in class".

Being scared of Mrs Shannon & Mrs Stringer. Almost a nervous wreck and I was only just starting my schooling. It all went to the pack after that.
Enjoyed all the sports we competed in and the ever-lasting games of cricket in the summer and endless games of rugby in the winter. Trecking down to the baths for swimming. Getting my visit kiss. Wonderful years I will say now but at the time I spent class time staring out the window wondering when it was all going to end.

Oh those memories.Some teachers were Miss Aldridge,Margaret Iremonger who became an Eager,Mr Groves who used to chuck wooden dusters at you and Mrs Stringer who I recall as crabby and strict but whom I have caught up with in later years and she was a lovely lady.

Loved to play 'patter' tennis, a maori boy taught me my 1st 2 chords on the guitar, I think our Form1 teacher was Mr George, a girl called Ann was teachers pet and Bruce J. won the 'lets grow longest fringe contest'.

Remember Mrs Eager as my teacher. Walking to the swimming baths,warm milk to drink…..Assembly in front of the main building every morning and saying the lords prayer.Peter Snell came and coached us for our athletics day.Remeber the intercom radio that had afternoon stories over.

1970s

I remember sitting in class dreading that I might be the next one called up to go to the "murder house" (dental clinic) Also the trips to "Manual" at Eltham, and that poor lady who taught us cooking and sewing - everyone gave her such a hard time!

I was glad we moved as I was due to get Miss(or Mrs) Bristow and my brother and sister use to tell me how she would shake you till your teeth rattled if you didn't know something. I missed Stratford terribly when we moved and still remember it fondly. I also remember I was deaply in love (at 6!!!!) with….

The good old days when kids were kids and teachers could strap.Played rugby and soccer for the school and love it. I can still remember some of my teachers names which were Miss Winter, Mr Brein, Mr O'Brian, Mr Craddock, Mrs cardiff,Mr Taylor to name just a few. Had a lot of good friends and a lot of good times.Hope to catch up with a few one day as well.

I started in Miss Cross's class, and had Mrs Henry and Mr Taylor as well. Mr Dalgety used to play the guitar at assembly and would walk around on duty twirling his whistle on a string around his finger.

Started Stratford Primary School in Std 1 in 1971 with Mrs George, a good first teacher and subsequently she taught at Stratford High School. Std 2 and 3 were with Mrs Rae Eagar (firm but fair and helped me focus on my reading,which is pretty damn good I might add), then Mr Gibson (a cool dude)in Std 4. Mr O'brien (loved his Cat Stevens records)for Form 1 and then Mr Grey for Form 2. Then off to Stratford High in 1976.

Jan & I being chased by a pig at the Te Wera campsite. Bullrush at lunchtime. Mrs Davies, Mr Keats (geez Wayne!!)

I remember mrs Stringer she strapped me one day for not finishing my maths! and now I am a maths teacher, I remember Mr Dalgety and Mr Gray

Great school. I remember the huge playing fields, walking to school past all the Kowhai trees in the mornings, grass fights after the lawns had been cut, bull rush, rugby and hockey, lining up to march down to the swimming pools on swimming days, visiting the dental nurse.

Stratford primary had about 600 kids when I was there. The best thing about it was that the grounds were huge as so the surrounding park.

Playing hand-ball in front of the school, 24 squres were about the biggest we played I think. Rugby at Lunch times…

It was a long time ago but I do remember getting the strap for running in the corridor after the bell had gone, I was 6 or 7

Had some great time and got up to mischief. Helped put Mrs Jardines car in car park, who else helped. Behaved most of the time.

1980s

I remember having a class wedding breakfast with Miss Lithgow when Charles and Diana got married and having boat races in Mrs Spragg's swimming pool. Those were the days.

ah yes...these were the days GnR ruled the air waves and Hulk Hogan was cool..Mr McAllister was the best teacher I ever had @ SPS.

I was a right little cow who kept on getting in trouble, and i remember pushing Mr McAllister into the Swimming pool in front of the Form 1s and 2s

Oh what fun, Mr. McAllister, Mr. Coulton, Mrs. Oaks and Miss Kennedy and who can forget that Mr. Squires!

Ah yes good old Mr Squire! Thanx for being fair, firm and consistent!

Stratford Pretty cool school. I remember it was a time when you had the 2 to 3 level forts and stuff you could break you arm on, not the useless playground eqiupment they have this days. I always remember that the walk to and from school was and adventure in itself. My brother, our friends and I would go behind some buildings that were just off one of the main streets that back on to a bank that fell 15 or so metres to a creek. I also remember playing with to girls everyday for what seemed like years, on a trail of tires that had been embedded vertically in concrete. We played a train game of some type, but one day I got bored and asked if we could play something else and that was it. If the train game wasn't good enough for me then I wasn't good enough for them and I never played with them again. I also remember playing alot of games that had to do with secret agent teams and also games that mimicked some of the eighties tv shows e.g macgyver.

Who could forget our dear Mr Squire??? The only person to ever get away with waking me before 7am! But hey, Forest Lakes camp was worth the early mornings!

I remember being tripped up by Mrs Maxwell and her umbrella when I was 6.
I remember manual with Mrs Taunt. And the school production we did that went through the eras of music. Oh yes and Forest Lakes Camp and those awful running circuits every Friday with Mr McAlistair *shiver*.

… Was pretty naughty at school! Used to like going to manual in Eltham on the bus and singing songs from the "Back to School" movie!

as a university student, I cannot imagine how I got up before 9am every day for so many years

1990s

the 6 & 7 timestables songs from standards 3 & 4. still remember them from that now.

Well what can I say about this gem... four square face off in form 2 and Mr Squire-you rock!!!

i remember the old playground where on of my mates broke her arm wen we were little as and i remember them getting rid of it and building the new one thats there now (nowhere near as good as the old one) best school ive eva been to and the most fun i think ive had in my entire life if i could i would relive it all again for the rest of my life. wicked teachers every year as far as i can remember and the school camps were choice as. big thing i remember was wen i left and moved to taumarunui but the school let me go bak there to go on the form one camp in te wera.

Yea it was pretty gud, but i just sprinted home each day so i culd thrash nintendo!!! well it was gud tho +_+

If i had my way i would have spent all my school years here

… we had a snow day, that was awesome!!

Put me off being a primary school teacher with the boys in my class. Playing "sandwich" with the boys and chipping teeth!

This was a cool school, loved everything about it - some of the teachers were kinda gay and old skool thou but loved it...

well i do remeber alot of good memories the main one in my head at the mo is the two dragon ladies (aka mrs c and miss priest) i also remember miss gray as she was then and i remember being in room 2!! i remember the green netball team and our eagle rock proformance at the school production that was cool!!! also when we were on forest lakes and mrs c went through the metal detector at the beehive and the new bra she got set off the detector!!! i also remember miss lim, miss pomare, mrs coles and of course mrs Parkinson

I meet some great people had a awesome time and went on a great camp to Forest Lakes!

Had a really awesome class in 1995 - all 37 of us cramped in rm 19 prefab! Remember the Dawson Falls camp - playing spotlight - it took us about an Hour to find Ngapera - he had jammed himself between the top of the door frame and the roof!
Winning the Ross Brown Shield in 1995 was awesome!

i also remember the pink panther slips that could win you a prize if you were good. Lol

I WAZ AT STRATFORD SCHOOL FOR A STRAIGHT 8 YEARS AND I LEARNT HEAPZ AND HEAPZ THERE.

had a lot of fun here, best teacher eva was Mrs C!!

2000 -

This school rocked! Had heapsa fun and made lotsa best friends for life! =)

I have only started this year and its a awesome school

The New S.P.S.

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:49:00 +0000

In three weeks time, SPS will be celebrating our 125th. On Queen’s Birthday Weekend the school will vibrate with the happy chatter of old friends and acquaintances sharing fond (and maybe not so fond!) memories of their younger days. Ex-staff will catch up on the years since leaving their former school. Former pupils will meet up with their “old” teachers! It will be a time to find out how the years have served people. There will no doubt be lots of laughs, and conversation around a myriad of topics.
Our classrooms and other parts of the school will showcase the work and learning of the current children at SPS. If you are contemplating attending, think seriously about registering now! Please look at the school website to see the old photographs, and read the stories by children over the last thirteen years. To be part of, and to celebrate this milestone in our school and town’s history, is something not to be missed.
We need lots of helpers for this weekend, for anything and everything. If you would like to help, please contact the school and leave your name and phone number.

Read about the Jubilee in the Stratford Press.

Memories: Jack Wendelborn

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:50:00 +0000

“ I attended Stratford Primary School in Primer 2 (I started my schooling in Christchurch). Miss Papps was Infant Mistress and Pat Tyrer the Head Master. My teacher in Standard 6 was Dick Thomas was an outstanding teacher (even if the boys did cut up his straps. He used to say “plenty more where they came from”. I found out later, his straps were supplied by my father who with partner (Bake & Co.) were the Saddlers in Stratford). L.J. Furrie was then Headmaster.
I am now 95 years old and would find it difficult to get to Stratford for your Jubilee celebrations – however I wish your committee a successful Celebration.

Yours sincerely
Jack Wendelborn.”

Standard 4 1922
Back Row: Leadbeater, Frank Young, Rex Harkness, George James, Alf Yandle, Milne, D. Stewart, Brown, Keith Paynter, Jock Stewart.
Middle Row: Vic Inglis, Morrison, - , Doug Butcher, Les Rudings, Sid Barlow, Keith Paynter, Nicholls (?)
Front Row: Vin Young, Jack Wendleborn, Jim Klee, Bob Boyd, Bill Kelly, Jim Pratt, Chum Cottier, Baily, McFarlane. (Note: there were two Keith Paynters in the class)

Memories: Ngaire Anderson (Vossler)

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:48:00 +0000

I attended Stratford Primary School from 1925 to 1932.

When I started the infant school was in the old building, Cloton Road side of property.

My first teacher was Miss Martin assisted by Pupil teacher Miss Doris Callaghan. Later my teacher was Miss Elley (Mrs Chadwick).

When in primers, we had ‘toothbrush drill’. Each child had a toothbrush and mug and were given salt water and shown how to brush their teeth. Also a medical exam by Dr. Gunn, probably every 2 – 3 years.

In Standard 1 I was taught by Mrs Anderson. She spent many years teaching that class and I think probably in the same room in the original wooden building in the main school (on Fenton Street). She was a ‘no nonsense’ teacher but did a very good job.

Standard 2, saw Miss Hetty Lindup (later Mrs Farqhar), a sweet gentle lady; Standard 3 Miss Findlay; Standard 4 Mr Morrison (Lofty). I still remember poems he taught us. Standard 5 Miss Richie, with thick fuzzy hair and a temper that went with it. No such a thing as no hitting or where we got hit. Standard 6 Mr Tunnicliffe, what a great year and what a great teacher. I enjoyed S.P.S. but Standard 6 was the highlight. I’m sure we learnt because we wanted to learn and were so encouraged by this man. Overseeing all this was Mr Furrie. Respected and loved by most of the children, he knew us all, and to be sent to show good work to him was the greatest reward. The stamp put on the back of the hand was ‘washed around’ for days.

The ‘cocoa shed’ in the grounds was used for many things and mainly as a lunch venue. This was the domain of Mr Rowson caretaker. Much respected by the children. Also maker of the ‘cocoa’ 1 penny a cup.

The Fancy Dress Ball. This was held annually in the town hall. For weeks before we had dance time learning folk dances. There were all kinds of costumes: cowboys, fairies, pirates, queens etc etc. My father was for many years on the School Committee and took his place, at the door to the back of stage ushering the classes in turn to supper. The wives spent the day making sandwiches, cakes, fruit jellies etc. and Mrs Furrie decorated the tables beautifully with vases of flowers.

A number of my school mates attended the school right through; Hugh Thomson, Eileen Callaghan, Pat Vellers, Neville Turnball, Myrtle Sorenson, Hilda Russ, Eljean Aitken (?), Davina Bird, Percy Vincent, Kay Petrie, Owen Masters, Gwen Whittlestone, Fred Lindup, Anna Morrison, Joyce Voght, Thelma Burgess, Hazel Femmell, Nancy Pratt, were some I remember in my class.

Maybe some of this will help you with your Jubilee preparation. Best wishes for a happy reunion.

Stratford: Shakespearean Town Under the Mountain

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:43:00 +0000

( Stratford’s Early Years: 1878 – 1890) pp 19, 20

“Education was another priority for Stratford’s growing population. The Taranaki Education Board claimed in June 1880 that there were no funds available for a school in the town, but by November 60 children were attending ‘half-time’ private schools in Stratford and Midhirst. Run by a Mr Donnelly and Mr Tom Blair, they ere attended mainly by children of the men working on the roads and railway, which were described as a ‘floating’ population. A Mr Johnson also ran a half-time school in Tayler’s Boarding House in 1880.

Agitation and a petition from parents eventually bore fruit and a site for a new public school on Fenton Street was gazetted in June 1881. Mr William Johnson was appointed headmaster for the new school that was finally opened in April 1882. Though elderly, he lived in a picturesque punga house built on several acres on Cardiff Road.”

The New S.P.S.

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:29:00 +0000

In 1947, an appeal committee to raise four thousand pounds ($8000) to put the school grounds and assembly hall in order was set up at a public meeting. The chairman could not see why the school should contribute to a hall, when the High Schools obtain theirs as right.

The Regan Street school was opened officially on April 21, 1948 by the Minister of Education Hon. T. H. McCombes.

Later that year sixteen hundred pounds ($3,200) was announced as available to complete the school grounds. A new Dental Clinic was planned as well as a Headmaster’s house. In September Mr Jackson took up duties as new Headmaster.

During 1949 the Assistant caretaker resigned. Standard 5-6 (Year 7-8) girls took turns to sweep out the classrooms, and the wage was divided among the girls.

May 1949 saw the roll of SPS rise to 600. The assembly hall was completed and electric bells were installed. Large numbers of boys were turning up to Saturday football, and a regular competition seemed probable for the following year.

Demolition

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 21:26:00 +0000

It was reported in the Stratford Press, February 7, 2007, that the buildings which were originally Stratford District High Schools (1912-1921), and then Stratford Primary School (1921-1948) are to be demolished in May. (Quoted as Prestige building site). They are situated on the corner opposite the Salvation Army on Fenton Street.

The sad part of this is that the 125th celebration of our school is less than one month later. Pupils who attended the school in those buildings will also be attending our celebration.

If your children are unaware of the significance of these buildings, please take a drive past, perhaps stopping to look.

In Term Two the school will be focusing on the forth-coming 125^th celebration as a major study, with the week preceding Queen’s Birthday weekend as our special emphasis.

Traditions of SPS

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 05:02:00 +0000

During this year, as I have been researching and writing these jottings, I have become very aware of the fact that so many of our Traditional events have simply disappeared. Here are some which I have read about, and can also remember from childhood days at SPS.!

The annual Fancy Dress Ball, for the whole school.

The annual Pet day, with the accompanying show in the school hall of sand-saucers, miniature gardens, vegetable animals etc

Cocoa, in winter, in the school hall.

The Annual Athletic Sport’s day, for schools from all around Stratford. Green House, red House, Blue House, Gold House. Oh, how proudly we marched (yes, marched!) behind our house banner, after practising for weeks to military band music !

The exhibition of local school children’s stories, needlework etc at the A and P Show.

Please share your memories on our Blog site

We love to hear about them!

Lee Coles

The School is to Move

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 06:02:00 +0000

In March, 1940, the Education Board added the replacement of the Stratford School (Fenton Street) to their list of projected works. In 1937 the Health Department had condemned the classrooms on the southern side of the site. Although alterations were suggested, public feeling was running high. So, in 1938 the Prime minister, Rt Hon. M. J. Savage was conducted over the school by the School Committee. The Stratford Borough Council offered to exchange a portion of King Edward Park for the school site, and in 1942 they received plans for the proposed school on the Regan Street site. The exchange for the Fenton Street section for the 14 ½ acres of King Edward Park was arranged.

On March 21, 1948 the school on Regan Street was officially opened by the Minister of Education, the Hon. T.H. Coombs, after the ten years buildings had originally been condemned!

The School Dental Clinic

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 21:03:00 +0000

In March, 1928 the first Dental Nurse was appointed to the Technical School in Cloton Road. She was given a room in the school by the Education Department, who also paid her wages. Although the School Committee supplied the facilities, the running expenses had to be paid by the parents by donations. All restorative work was done by ‘pedal drill’. (In 1925 the National statistics revealed that there were 73 extractions for every 100 fillings.)

In February 1949, the new Dental clinic was opened at the present school site. There were three electric ‘B’ type units. By 1950 there were five Nurses working in a Clinic originally built for three, and they were five years in arrears.

In 1978 the present three nurse Clinic was opened on its present site to the North of the old Clinic, which became the Speech Clinic.

War Time

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 08:32:00 +0000

By 1942 the trenches had been completed in Victoria Park, across the street from the Fenton Street school. On February 23 an evacuation was practised. During 1943 the school was visited by men of the American forces. They were welcomed at the school’s doorstep and conducted through the classrooms by the class captain.

By 1944 Mr Taylor (Headmaster) and Mr Breen (first assistant) were the only male staff members. As a result it was difficult to maintain the standard of the boy’s activities.

The year is 1882

noreply@blogger.com (SPS Jubilee) — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 08:29:00 +0000

Stratford township has reached a population of 100 and has two dozen (24) houses. In Stratford, and Midhirst, there are half time houses operating in private houses. The parents in both townships begin petitioning the Education Board for a state school to be built. Stratford School opens in April, 1882, and is controlled by the same committee as Midhirst school, which opens in the same year.

Mr F.A Tyrer is head teacher successfully at Midhirst and Stratford. Ngaere School is another school that opens in 1882.

Cardiff School opens in 1886. This shortens the often rigorous walk to school of the then horseless children west of Stratford. (Something for all of us to think about, isn’t it!)