West Wight School Display at Freshwater Library

 Past pupils and staff descended on Freshwater Library in their droves on Thursday April 28th. There was a distinct buzz about the place as people realised that they recognised friends from their school days and numerous ‘group’ photographs were taken.  

 Around 100 people attended this display of memorabilia from the schools on the site in Queens Road.  Many were local, but quite a few travelled across the Island, and one even came from France for the occasion! Two other lady visitors of note were a past pupil, who then went on to teach at the school, and a cook who worked at the school during the early 1940’s. Attached to the school, from 1946 to the early 70s, was a working farm, and this attracted many young people who wanted to train to work on the land. A number of these Pre-Ag students attended the display and some found photographs of themselves working on the land or driving a tractor. One past pupil commented, ‘The photos brought back happy memories, many laughs, and it was good to see photos of our teachers.’

 

One room was set aside for refreshments with tables and chairs, and at times it was rather like pals having fun in the Tuck Shop or in the playground. It was in constant use, with people chattering about their school memories.

Several people brought along photographs and documents, such as a hymn book and a book that had been awarded, and these created great interest.  There are still many gaps in our archives and we would like to urge past pupils to look out any relevant material, particularly from the 1980s and 90s.

 

 

Financially, the afternoon was a real success too, as the target for the inscription for the Commemorative Stone has now almost been reached; such was the generosity of the donations from the visitors. The final details for the unveiling ceremony, on August 31st at 6.00 pm., can now be arranged.  

 

 

Janet Haire