East Oldham High School
The Move to Counthill
Letter to Parents, Postmarked 20 July 1951
This is quite a historic document. It was preserved by Jean Tibbet (née Crowther). who donated it to O.L.S.A. and later directed us to it in the O.L.S.A. archives. As you will see from the envelope (PDF version), this is the copy that was originally sent to Jean's parents. We are grateful to Jean for preserving and donating it, and to O.L.S.A. for their permission to publish it here.
The letter is from the Headmaster (Allan Bradley) to parents, and is postmarked 20 July 1951.
So that we could display it in a "web-friendly" manner, it was re-typed for us by Keith (Sudds).
Simply click Next at the bottom of this page to read the "web-friendly" version.
We also offer you the original (in efect a Xerox copy) in PDF format, including a scan of an envelope in which it was received - complete with postmark and stamps! See end of next page for PDF version.
East Oldham High School,
Greengate Street,
Oldham.
Dear Parent,
As you are aware, the school is moving to Counthill in September, and changing its name to Counthill Grammar School. Many enquiries have reached me concerning the other changes which will take place at the same time, and about the arrangements which will be necessary at the beginning of the term. I hope that the following notes, enclosed with terminal reports by courtesy of Mr. Ashworth, will answer some of the problems.
Date of opening for the Autumn Term. The staff will return to duty on 4th September, but pupils will not be required until Wednesday, 12th September, unless they are Sixth Formers whose presence is particularly asked for. Pupils should be at the school by 8.50 a.m. on the 12th September, and follow instructions which will be given to them on their arrival.
(The official opening will probably take place in the very late Autumn and no doubt public announcements about this will be made in due course)
Uniform. For some time to come the existing school uniform will be considered perfectly in order. It is obvious, however, that the existing inscriptions on blazer pockets and cap and beret badges will be out of date. In due course, new badges will be available, but not for some months. In the meantime, boys requiring new caps can still obtain the existing type of cap, which can have the name unpicked. I hope that it may eventually be possible to sew a new badge over the old one. It is not proposed to alter the colour of the caps or berets, nor is any other change in uniform contemplated except the introduction of blazer for boys and girls. An announcement about this will be made as soon as possible. The new badge for caps, berets and blazers is simply the crest of the Oldham coat of arms, namely the owl perched on a rock above a wreath in which there are three red roses.
Footwear. The floors at Counthill are particularly beautiful ones which we are anxious to keep in good condition. Every pupil, therefore, whether boy or girl, will be required to change into light indoor shoes on arrival at school. Gym shoes will not be suitable for all-day wear. Any kind of indoor shoe with a heel will do; perhaps the best would be a sandal.
All footwear, both outdoor and indoor, must be very clearly marked with the owners name. Inspections will be carried out from time to time. The same applies to all other possessions.
Towels. Please note that pupils will require a towel on most days as there will be excellent shower-bath facilities in connection with Physical Education.
Transport. I regret that I am not at present in a position to make any announcement on this matter. Unless and until special arrangements are made, pupils must make their own way between home and Counthill. As many as possible should avoid using the ‘bus services between Hill Stores and the nearest points to Counthill, as this will help to ease congestion.
Infectious illness. Please may I remind parents of their responsibility to send immediate information to the school, should pupils be suffering from any infectious illness, or in close contact with one. For many kinds of contact, no quarantine is required, but the report to the school office is important. The signature of Health Certificates by all parents every term is not required.
Parents’ visit to Counthill. As soon as possible, I hope to arrange for parents to have an opportunity to see Counthill and meet the staff. It is of the utmost importance that we should all collaborate closely in using and enjoying the wonderful opportunity offered by the new venture, and we can only do this properly if we first become acquainted with on another. Personally, I shall look forward very keenly to welcoming as many parents as can manage to come.
Interviews. I can of course arrange for parents to have consultations about individual pupils with Miss Platt, Mr. Higson or myself, or indeed, with other colleagues. I should, however, be grateful if these could be delayed until after September, except in the cases of urgency, as we shall all be very preoccupied, no doubt, during the early days in the new School.
May I say, in conclusion, that having moved amongst your sons and daughters and my colleagues for two months or so, I am entering upon my duties with the greatest pride and pleasure, and will do all in my power to serve the school in a fitting manner.
Yours Faithfully
(signed - Allan Bradley)
Headmaster
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