History of the School - 1907-1915

"A light sliding partition between the classrooms would be advantageous"

After Miss Frayling's departure a supply teacher held the fort for three years before Bertha Davis took over. Whether standards had dropped or whether her own standards were especially high is uncertain but she comments that she found the children "very backward in their work". Many were absent in the first few weeks with whooping cough.

 

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Mrs E Henstredge
Alresford
Hants.

When I started school in 1915 the teachers were Miss George and Miss Laurie. The school was one large room divided by a curtain (which the older girls helped mend when it wanted repairing). We used to have a Maypole around which we did pretty dances and made patterns with coloured ribbons.

We also had lovely Christmas parties given by the 'ladies' of the village and each child had a present. I was given a silver thimble which I still have.

Yours sincerely

 

Emily Henstredge (Mrs), née French
(Meonstoke School 1915 - 1924)

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The Inspector's report of 1911 is particularly interesting. For the first time he questions the desirability of having the younger children in the same classroom as the older ones. He states that "it is a drawback to the work and discipline of both, and a light sliding partition would be found advantageous". He encourages more physical training and outdoor activities, and comments that the double seat in the boys' toilet is "contrary to regulations."

Bertha Davis's departure in 1913 was followed by a rapid succession of headteachers. Caroline Newman took over for a year, Louisa J Lutton lasted a few weeks, as did Elsie Stokes, who was replaced by Maud George.