Good Times Mostly

A Memory of Frilsham.

I have vivid and fond memories of my schooling here from 1963 to 1967. Some of the teachers and staff were inspiring and caring (Miss Wynn the music teacher, Miss Gray), a few not so. The headmaster Ted Vidal (or JEV) could be intimidating. His military stance, brisk walk and manner demanded respect. He had a habit of calling every boy Boris. I dreaded being singled out and did not look forward sitting next to him in the dining room. Beware his judgement, "see me in the study afterwards" if you announced a double silence for a severe indiscretion, a beating likely to be on the cards. However, he could be kind and genuinely interested in you at times. The rambling school building and extensive grounds with its playing fields, woods and murky ponds are other memory highlights, as are the friends I fleetingly made. I can't even complain about the food. If nothing else Frilsham instilled in me a love of drama, singing, music, reading, nature and the outdoors - and how to make my bed properly!