Farnworth C Of E School In The 1940s

A Memory of Widnes.

I started school in September 1945 at Farnworth C of E School in Pit Lane. When I started school my dad worked at the Co Op as "first hand" in various shops in Widnes. Our headmaster was Mr. Turton and he was an excellent man! We had a very good primary education and I sat the 11 plus in the early months of 1951. However I rebelled at the idea that the exam was held on a Saturday! I did not agree that I should have to go to school on a Saturday! I recall that about 16 people out of my class ( about 40 plus in number in the class) passed the exam but because of my attititude to the Saturday exam and not having accepted that it was valid to go to school on a Saturday I was not willing to take the matter seriously! and I failed! In the summer exams I achieved "top of the class" for the one and only time of my life! We then moved to Latchford Warrington where my dad had a small corner shop. After the move, because of the date of my birthday I was allowed to re-sit my 11 plus again at Latchford and this time I passed!. I went on to Boteler Grammar school where I had some excellent teaching and after four year I sat 9 O levels ( and managed to pass all of them!). I then went on to pass three A levels and subsequently gained a less than spectacular degree in Engineering at the University of Nottingham. I went on to enjoy a working life in engineering and then software development. It just shows that a lad of 10 needs to be listened to and guided by teachers at the age of 10 if he/she is to get the best out of early school experience. I managed to make a success of my working life in Cambridge and, being in the right place and time, I went on to set up my own small company and I was able to retire at 51 and return to North Lancashire. I remember my time at Farnworth and owe a lot to Mr. Turton and his staff at Farnworth school! I would love to hear from my fellow pupils from Farnworth school. Regards Norman Sandland

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