As Mr Stewart is retiring we interviewed him about his memories of Branksome
His first memory of the school was in 1968 when his family moved to Darlington from Newton Aycliffe to take his ‘O’ levels (these are like our current GCSEs) – not many people remember ‘O’ levels now!
After 3 years of teacher training he came back to Branksome to teach. He then got an English degree and has had a career spanning 34 years.
Memories
Mr Stewart thought that taking the students to Wimbledon was the greatest memory as all the students on the trip enjoyed playing or watching tennis.
One of the most jaw-dropping experiences at Branksome was when an unexpected helicopter landed in the school yard. Every teacher and student watched in disbelief as Julie Park the Site manager was asked by former Headteacher John Meilroy, to go for a ride around the estate in the helicopter – becoming Branksome’s first flying caretaker!
Another memory was when a Headteacher had the whole school painted completely and utterly pink – honest! Pink classrooms, pink corridors– everywhere pink to inspire the students. The chairs in the staffroom are a painful reminder of this time.
Once a brave but foolhardy pupil risked her life climbing up a drainpipe to get a 5 pence powerball. All the teachers watched in terror as she got further and further up the drainpipe and then managed to get down safely with the ball.
Our intrepid English teacher also went on a lot of school holidays to France. His most enjoyable memory of France was flying kites with Mr Parr – they were on a beach where the wind was very strong and had a fabulous time. ( Mr Stewart made a rude comment about Mr Parr at this point but the censors have removed it!)
Other memories include the many successful school productions especially “Grease” which was brilliant everyone enjoyed it. (We are still waiting for the Romeo and Juliet production though Sir!)
We also asked about his retirement and his answer was “carpentry” Apparently Mr Stewart is going back to college – Bishop Auckland Technical College, to learn how to make furniture. ( Could you make us some new shelves for the library please Mr Stewart?) Before all of this though he is going to take a well earned break in Greece in September. We hope he will return sometimes to see us, but with 36 years of Branksome School behind him we acknowledge that he deserves a rest.
The last thing he said was “ This school is way better than its reputation – let it be known”
We agree Mr Stewart and wish you all the best in your retirement.
The Branksome Bugle Team.
No comments:
Post a Comment