Stubbington 1963 4

A Memory of Stubbington.

I taught at Stubbington House to see whether teaching was my metier, with Andrew Walters and John Bardolph, still good friends. I remember Mr Field, an MCC member, who occasionally took cricket nets and we always imagined him as ages older than us. Actually less than five years!
John Renton was studying Spanish in his 90's. A kindly fellow whose only son, Nick, sadly died in an accident in New Zealand very young.
It seemed an idyllic year, with willing and cheerful pupils. I hope they have all done well. They deserved to.
The summer term I took 2nd XI cricket and was talked out of our winning by a rival Headmaster, who I did not wish to offend. Nicholas Graham had 37 runs at tea time and should have been awarded a new bat if we had elected to continue after tea. Sorry Nicholas. I have never trusted rival Heads again!
I taught middle school Maths and the youngest - French. I became a Head of Maths for many years some time later so at least I benefited.
Andrew played trombone, John played a very accomplished Piano and I tenor sax.
It must have restored peace when I left for training college and marriage.
When Arthur Moore became a dad, some boy said: "He's got your eyes, Sir."
Make of that what you will.
I remember John Renton, who was shortish but broad, supporting a whole rugby scrum on his own. He was decorated in the war for bravery - preparation for things to come! A very good friend.
Food was always sufficient and tasty. Very different from the War years at my own Prep School.
It would be interesting if some energetic soul would start an old boys club on Net.
Such a good school with intelligent, sparkling pupils must have led to stories to tell.
I write feature film scripts so forgive the hidden curriculum. If any of my past pupils are passing through Queensland, Australia, divert to Toowoomba where I have three guest rooms. Ghosts from the past are always welcome.