Appleton Comprehensive School opened 1966

Photos 1966 - 1977 + comments on the School corporal punishment: Anecdotes database

taken approx 1966/67
taken approx. 1971
taken approx 1972
approximately 1977
Taken approx. 1977

APPLETON SCHOOL, Benfleet, Essex — state mixed secondary modern until 1967 then secondary comprehensive
LEA: Essex CC
Modi operandi mentioned: Cane on buttocks (boys); Slipper/gymshoe, target unspecified (boys)

Wembley School Trip — The night of the visit to Wembly arena to see the Harlem Globe Trotters, a 45 seater coach full of the worst bunch of reprobates possible all under the wing of the then PE staff, Mr.Jones, Mr.Ellis. Some bright sparks (Paul C., Tony P., Steve G., Me, and various others) had the idea of smuggling cans of beer onto the coach, commandeering the back seats and getting into a serious drinking party on the way to London, all went well untill someone rolled a full can down the coach gang way!!! all hell let loose.

We ended up in Eddie Haynes office (about 10 of us) with the confiscated beer on his desk and 3 buckets full of VIM on the floor, he made us empty all the cans into the buckets and then caned our backside raw. PRICELESS!!!!! (Still got the Ticket stubs) (Mervyn G., 1967-72)

Mr E.E. Haynes — An honourable mention for the fearsome EE (Eddie) Haynes, the original (and still the best) Headmaster. He retired the same month as I left, July 1973 and softened slightly in his last few months. He terrified both pupils and junior teachers alike. Many’s the time (when something was up) the classroom door would burst open and he would fill the door, his cape billowing and flexing his well used cane in front of him. Then with a face like thunder he would stalk round the room flicking certain boys behind the ear with his cane whilst I prayed that it wasn’t me he was looking for.

A milling throng in the corridors could be brought to a silent standstill if his familiar bellow of “YOU BOY!” was suddenly heard. The only boy likely to still be trying to sidle round the corner would be his chosen prey. Often me, unfortunately. [….] A frightening but a fine man. (Steven H., 1968-73)

EE Haynes — Always will remember the Headmaster with the cane and cape and the very red face when in rage!! Which was quite often!! (Diane S., c.1974)

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  • I believe the shop on the corner of Croft Road was owned by the Rawlings family. Maybe the Groves took over later years.

    Before Appleton School was built, it was all fields, and I had a friend who lived in a bungalow opposite. In the mid fifties I used to go to her house and we would ride our bicycles over the fields. Also I was friends with her next door neighbour and we still send cards to each other, as she lives in Devon now.

    I remember that my late Father-in-Law, George Gaines, who came to Benfleet in the mid 1940s, used to refer to that shop as ‘Rawlings’. Pamela [Editor]

    By Pat White (nee King) (30/01/2024)
  • Memories of the school dance.
    There was a school dance in 1973/4. A group played that night. Anyone have any pictures of the black cats ?

    By Jackie Leggett nee grainger (08/02/2023)
  • Thanks David … I recall those names for sure but not the vote for Head Boy.
    Always RICH Barnard during school days.

    By Rich Barnard (17/03/2022)
  • It wasn’t Wendy B(?) but I remember Wendy Atkins

    By Rich Barnard (17/03/2022)
  • In response to Richard Barnard and Stephen Cain’s comments regarding the head boy during our final year in 1977. I think it was Mark Lewis (not Paul). He was indeed my friend and in my class, 5P, Mrs Hilleard’s class. I recall Mark, Peter Wilkins and Michael Bird being in the running for head boy and we all had to vote in the Assembly Hall!

    By David Lazell (17/03/2022)
  • Form F 1972-77 (Mrs Mumford, Domestic Science)
    Chris Ace Pauline Atkins
    Rich Alemklev Shelley Baker
    Stephen Allen Rosemary Bartlett
    Michael Armfield Sharon Braithwaite
    Andrew Alden Shelia Branaghan
    Gary Bagley Julie Brindley
    Rich Barnard (ME) Lesley Broughton
    Conrad Batch Corrina Brown
    Michael Bird Tracey Bush
    Brian Bridger Diane Quick
    Michael Brown Shelley Martin
    Geoffery ‘Bogsey’
    Burville Wendy B(?)
    Stephen B (urrell ?)

    Total of 25 recalled, not bad for 45 years ago but …
    Can anyone fill in blanks/corrections that I may have mis-remembered ?

    By Rich Barnard (07/03/2022)
  • Hi my maiden name was Herbert I was Michelle Herbert. I started off in 1H in Miss Hadrabas class. I was at Appleton from 1969 till 1974. Teachers I remember were Miss Hadraba, Mr Ellis, Mr Musson Mr Cutmore Mr Sykes, Miss Grimes, Miss Ellis, Miss Mills, loads more that I can’t remember their names and obviously the head Mr Haynes, who could forget him? I used to be friends with Juliet Bell, Sharon Riley, Susan Roberts, Kim Reeves, Trevor Curtis, Jon O’Keefe, Pete Bailey, Ricky Birmingham and Steven Heath, Trevor Parks or Parker, Heather James, Catherine McBrearty, Paul Rudge, Mark Deeble, Linda Jenkins, Linda Jennings, Joanne Robinson and many more who are a bit hazy. I’m still friends with Juliet Bell who has lived in Mexico for about 40 years. I would love to get in contact with anyone who remembers me. I loved the 70’s it was so much fun.

    By Michelle Lee (01/11/2021)
  • Hi, I’m third from the left (Ian Rudall) on front row.Jeffery Ashwell is first then I think David Dickinson. Next to me is Clifford Cassidy. It seems like only yesterday.

    By Ian Rudall (15/05/2021)
  • It was Paul Williams who was Head Boy for co-hort 1972-77. So might have been in Form T.

    By Rich Barnard (09/04/2021)
  • I was in Year Group 1971-77 and in Form F.
    The post by Stephen Cain (29/02/2020), and names he mentions, resonants on my long-term memory.
    Who was Paul, the Head Boy, he mentions ?
    What Form class was he in ?

    By Rich Barnard (08/04/2021)
  • I have just discovered this site, having taught at Appleton from 1969 until 1972 and again from 1974 until 1980. I have been surprised and somewhat saddened to read that some people were unhappy at the school. I have to say that in general I found it a happy place to work. I found the pupils to be, on the whole, a good-natured bunch and the staff were reasonably harmonious. Of course, nothing is perfect in this life and there were exceptions. It’s the nature of young people to push at the boundaries set up for them and some pupils caused problems. There were personality differences on the staff and some whose company I did not enjoy. That’s life. It would be improper to mention names in this context of staff or pupils but on the whole, I repeat, I found it a happy place.

    The comments about corporal punishment on this page I found rather surprising because although I was aware that it was in use, I don’t remember the atmosphere being dominated by it. My own attempt at discipline was through reasonable firmness combined with humour. Whether this was successful or not is for those who had to tolerate it to decide…perhaps some who read these pages.

    I remember the era under discussion as a much simpler time than this neo-puritan age which seems to have developed. It was certainly less bureaucratic. Discipline was administered without the requirement for tribunal hearings and board meetings and all the paperwork that accompanies these procedures. I am very glad that I no longer have to negotiate the pitfalls of teaching in the 21st century.

    On a matter of accuracy, the first photo on this page must have been taken during or after 1974. Bill Lovegrove is pictured as headteacher (arrived January 1974) and I am pictured on Andrew Moore’s right (left as you look at the photo). I also arrived for my second stint at the school in January 1974.

    I have many photos of tutor group activities but they are all of rather poor quality and I hesitate to publish without consent. It gave me great pleasure to recognise the names of pupils who were at the school during my time there, some of whom must be in their early sixties. Best wishes to you all. I hope that you have all had happy and successful lives and careers and that you will continue to thrive for many years to come.

    By Barry Davies (17/02/2021)
  • Hi all,
    I went to Appleton from 1975-80 and was in form T, Mr Cutmore was our form tutor.
    Does anyone remember the summer tennis tournaments between the teachers, especially the awfully bad sportsmanship of Mr Brouse (head of PE) when he got beaten by Mr Evans. Mr Evans used to deride anyone who was not good at sports.
    French: Mr Hanson, Mrs Evans
    Wood/Metal work: Mr’s Shore, Sharpe, Cutmore, Door
    Science: Mr Clarke, Mrs Suglini, Mr Barnard
    Music: Mrs Grimes
    RE: Mr Davies (nice), Mr Jacobs

    School disco’s in the integrated block
    Mass assemblies in the sports hall

    By Tim Shorey (04/08/2020)
  • I joined Appleton in 1972 to Mrs Mason’s class. Seemed really strict but she stayed with us until we left in 1977 and there was genuine emotion. Other teachers:
    Mr Norbury – history – used to plays board games with a group of us
    Mr Dorsey – history- American- also introduced board games and did extra tuition at his home on bread and cheese hill
    Mrs Hyde- English- attractive
    Miss Dunne – geography – young
    Mrs portwain – science – slippered in class and threw board dusters at us
    Mr Lee- physics – Texas calculator
    Mr Snell and miss Quail (mini skirt) both maths
    Mrs coombes french
    Mr cutmore- metalwork
    Members of 2-5m
    Terry hall, Trevor Hudson, Paul Hogg, Paul Houghton, Lee Hodgson, Rod Holliman, Dave Jones, Bobby?, Stuart Harrison, Beverley Ireland- Linda? sat next to her, Karen Griffiths, Wendy Judd, Mandy Ingrams, Debbie, Natalie, Paul Simms, Alan Lay, Larry Key.
    Also remember Tracy Alban, Paul who was head boy, Linda who went curly at seevic, Alan Wells, David Lazell and his mate Paul, Ian Webb, Gary dance et al.

    By Stephen Cain (29/02/2020)
  • I was there from 1969 to 1974. Many names I remember well. My class teacher was Mrs Lill the needlework teacher in the tower block. I truly did not like school, it was the worst five years of my life, but saying that I had some great friends, Ann Lane, Denise Lane, Belinda Holly, Stephanie Sands, Lesley James, Susan Mint and a girl called Cathy. Lots of you I miss and many not so, you were my bullies.

    By Theresa Jones (01/12/2019)
  • Well it’s been over 50 years since I went to Appleton. I started there in 1968. Names I remember include, Matthew Dawson, Ralph Cozens, Gareth Tuck, Graham Collett. I was in M class. Our form tutor was Miss Sachon (Lucy). I am now 62 and living in Canterbury, Kent. Married for over 20 years, no children but have west highland Terrier instead. After many jobs in London I did a stint as a hospital porter for 8 years, I recommend this to anyone. Left in 1987 and dipped into the world of sales where I have been in some way or other ever since. I am still working as a business consultant for EPOS. I probably won’t retire. My health is a little dodgy though. I have osteo arthritis in my spine and have been treated for anxiety. Sorry to hear about Terry Severn RIP.

    By Paul Coppin (09/09/2019)
  • Hi all, I was also the first intake and remember all the teachers mentioned for those early years, I have a panoramic photo of the first year intake (click here to see the photo on this website, courtesy of Kevin) if anyone would like a copy emailed to them I am on Facebook, my profile picture is a Springer Spaniel with green moss on its head. ( a long story).
    Find me if you want a copy.
    Kevin Bowden.

    By Kevin Bowden (12/10/2018)
  • I went to Appleton comprehensive from 1971 through to 1976, my name is Jackie Grainger, who remembers me ?

    By Jackie Leggett nee Grainger (10/09/2018)
  • I went to Appleton from ’78 to ’83. Mrs Sommerfield was our form tutor. I remember Mr Portwain teaching Physics, I think, Mr Madison and of course Mr Edmondson who we all used to take the mickey out of. Miss street was our art teacher. I remember her keep sending everyone out ‘cos she couldn’t control us at all.
    Classmates, Michelle Hamilton, Fiona Gentry, Glen Linsey, Trevor Bradbeer.

    By Helen Fitzgerald (Chaston) (08/05/2018)
  • Wow. It is so good to read these memories. I was In Miss Lill’s class at the top of the tower block. 1968 to ’74 I think. Class mates Neil Mahaffy, Martin Lee, Simon Haywood, Jonathan Foy, slapped with the black plimsoll. Did you really put that drawing pin in it? Kevin Leader, Wayne Newman, Neil Baker, Ashley Knights and quite a few more who I can visualise but not recall names. The girls were Jones twins, Sharon Jones, another petite Jones, Lesley Marston, Janice Knights (gave me top marks for the best kisser in class). Mr Ashton taught my Brother and a Sister at King Johns and then me at Appleton. Bill Langley, Mr Cutmore who took a few of us on his boat out of Fambridge. What was the pretty French teachers name?

    All in all happy days. Does anyone know of Janine Sadler who was in a year below me. A romance that ended far too soon.

    By Tony Langton (22/03/2018)
  • Lovely to read so many comments. When someone told me your school days would be the best days of your life I thought God my life is going to be rubbish. I was bullied something chronic all the time I was there from 1971 to 1976. You know what I’d give to be that age again in the era because whoever said that was right, we had no responsibilities and looking back it was the best days of my life. How sad is that? 😯.

    By Jackie Leggett nee Grainger (25/01/2018)
  • I joined in 1970 and left in late 1972. I remember Mickey Claxton and the rest of the Claxton family, Victor Hall and Mark Deeble. I heard that Mickey died very young. I met Mr Haines after I had been in a dust up with another pupil who broke his hand. The better behaved kids were Clifford Lunt, Barbara Mitchell (my crush). Lynne?? And David mead. I vividly remember Mr Garton and Nick Jarrett the PE teacher. Can’t remember the maths teacher but he seemed very moody, I do remember a great music teacher who was good with the Spanish guitar and a female pupil who fell out of a window and survived. Bit random, but nearly 50 years ago.

    By Trevor redburn (13/01/2018)
  • Came across this site, wow, all those peeps from Appleton, I remember Venice, Mussen, Haynes, Globe Trotters, the birth of comprehensive education, hello to all, ChriX

    By C.F. (04/01/2018)
  • Hi, I was at Appleton from 1967 until my family moved to Sussex in 1971 (which was a wrench for me, losing touch with my school friends since our days at Benfleet Primary school). I have many happy memories and remember many of the names mentioned, both teachers and pupils. Mrs Grimes was an inspirational music teacher and got everyone playing an instrument. I particularly remember singing early Lloyd Webber in her classes (Joseph, Jonah and the Whale etc) and find myself singing descant along to the radio at times which is pretty scary for others! I remember Mr Sutorious the American teacher who followed us from Benfleet Primary where we of course had called him “Sooty” (what else?!).

    I also have embarrassing memories of our class treating our form teacher (whose name escapes me but began with a W) very badly and I think he left as a result. I missed everyone when I left. A few names come to mind – Susan Whiting, Susan Witchell, Jackie Catchpole. Like a previous contributor, I hated the cross country runs (my blood still runs cold when I think of them!).

    By Christine Green (nee Whittingham) (01/09/2017)
  • Hi, I started Appleton school in 1967-1972. I was in Mr Selwoods class, 1-5P! I still am in contact with Janet Phillips. I remember my school years fondly. I enjoyed all sports, Mrs Ellis was one of the PE teachers? I also remember Mrs Grimes and the school orchestra! I hated playing the violin! But I loved all our school productions, especially Trial by Jury with Mr Lambillion? Christopher Fulford and Glen.? were the real actors and Chris has been seen many times on TV. The one thing I always hated was the cross country, especially in the mud! Great times! 

    By Janice Carrington was Sandiford (21/07/2017)
  • Hi.. I was at Appleton from 78 till 81 when my family moved away. Headmaster then was Mr Lovegrove.. I remember a few names.. Adam Swainsbury..Gary Ventura.. Shelley Salisbury.. Martin and Adrian Pel.. Diane Northfield.. Patrick Holmes.. Robert Holmes.. Mark Taylor.. Maxine Smith.. Saraha Oliver and few more. Would love to catch up on fb.. this was the best school I went to. 

    By Tanya Priestley (02/07/2017)
  • Brian,

    That’s sad. I’d known Steve since our schooldays but haven’t seen him for probably five years. He was a friendly, likeable bloke with a ready sense of humour. As you say, RIP Steve.

    I wonder if his Brother Tony is still around?

    By William West (12/04/2017)
  • Steve Mundy  passed away recently  r.i.p Steve. (see comment above)

    By brian heale (05/04/2017)
  • Hi Linda,

    I was in Mr Webster’s class and must have been in the same year as you.

    I remember Billy Brightmore and Mark Beaumont. Others I remember were the Mottrams, Steve Munday, Paul Guppy, Celia Parker, Tina Maher, Linda Doren and John Penny.

    By William West (02/04/2017)
  • I left Appleton in 1972. I was in Mrs.Grimes class. Some of my classmates were Linda Avery, Linda Brixton, Jonquil Carpenter, Mark Beaumont, Gerard Kennedy, Billy Brightmore, Russel Bowles amongst others. Anyone remember me?

    By Linda Hart (01/04/2017)
  • Anyone have the original of the first group photo, 1966, here.

    I would love to see a better copy.

    By David Sheldrake (27/02/2017)
  • I was in the first intake at Appleton too.

    Apart from all the names of teachers mentioned already I also remember my first French teacher, Mrs Suglini, and an American temporary teacher named Mr Sutorious.

    My favourite teacher was Mr Musson for English and Music. The teacher I disliked most was Mr Jacobs …. completely bonkers mental.

    Names of schoolfriends – Steve Watkins (died of a brain tumour over 10-years ago), Paul Tucker, Dennis Franklin, Philip Webb, Philip Howarth, Alan Playfair, Billy Wakeham, and Tony Schmidt. I also remember beating up the school bully (an evil little brat named Claxton) …. and I remember a boy, who used to fart really loudly in assembly, named Carl Mingard.

    I left when I was 15 and became an electrician. I now run radio stations in West Sussex, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Bristol, Brighton, Birmingham, Aldershot, Cambridge, Norwich and Woking.

     

    By Tony Smith (17/02/2017)
  • Oh my god……hi guys!

    I was a pupil 1972-77 ish.

    Want some names…..?

    Brian Browse, Jane Menell-Taylor, Bev Yaffee, Mr. Bennest, Mr. Lee, Alan Jones, Sue Hilliard, Mr. Cutmore, Mrs. Grimes, Mr. Portwain, Mr. Barnard, Bill Blackshaw.

    By Derek Scott (12/01/2017)
  • I moved up from Benfleet Primary in the Autumn of 1968. I will always remember it as a school in building progress the whole time I was there. Arriving in Miss Cushing’s class, 1K, on that first day and seeing all the new faces around me I was convinced that I must be in the wrong class as everyone already seemed so big and grown up to me. Miss Cushing took us for English and later Miss Kettle.  Mr Jacobs was our maths teacher and thankfully could be sidetracked into lengthy digressions in double maths lessons. Mr Peacock was a popular metalwork teacher and took us on a trip to Switzerland in 1970, Miss Durham and I think Mr Davies also came, a whole week for £40. I will never forget the night train across France and Switzerland. I shared a room with my mate Kev Holliington and we still see each other occasionally. Harry Ashton was a legendary History teacher, ex King John School.  Mr Haynes, Miss Jefferies and Mr Musson were all well established teachers of the ‘old school’. The hippy art teacher as far as I remember was Miss Hadraba, I recall making a papier-mache car in her class. Miss Grimes was the music teacher and one of my most enduring memories is of Mike Hobday and Graham Lavender playing a duet on the piano of ‘Nutrocker’. Another musical highlight was when Ashley Gough brought his drum kit in and gave it a good thrashing on stage in a school assembly.  

    The school was modern and well equipped.  Where else was I going to see radioactive isotopes in class or 10 foot tapeworms in glass jars. Imagine at 13 years old being able to use a forge and anvil to make your own metalwork projects like snakes and coat-hooks; of course no safety gear apart from your woodwork apron.  A field trip to Ingleton and Ambleside with Mr Webster (History) where the boys stayed in an annexe of the YWCA. Ghost stories were told in the dark and high jinks engaged in. It was very snowy up on the peaks and Mr Websters dog Ruff accompanied us. I too remember a long sponsored walk, in the rain, around Pitsea, Canvey and Benfleet; I think it was in aid of a school minibus. Another sponsored walk comes to mind involving a walk around Epping Forest?  Cross country runs were taken through Thundersley Glen to avoid cutting up the acres of playing field reserved almost exclusively for rugby, thanks Mr Ian Ellis. I could go on, with plenty more teachers to recall and of course all the other kids who were there with me. ‘What larks Pip’.

    By Ian Lipscomb (06/11/2016)
  • I was at Appleton from 77-82 class M form tutor Mrs Cunningham, then Mr Webster. Left Appleton with hardly any qualifications that I should have achieved only maths, English and science (never mind) enjoyed my time there great to hear from anyone.

    By Richard North (15/09/2016)
  • I was at Appleton from ’71-’75 (I left a year early – ‘hell on legs!’ me! I feel sorry for the teachers who had to take me). Mrs Cunningham was my form tutor, such a great teacher. Used to bunk off with Robin Smith AKA Daddy Dobs and Sara and Claire Lambkin to name but a few. Would love to hear what they’re all up to 

    By Maria Andrews (11/09/2016)
  • I did not actually attend Appleton (already left school before it opened). However looking at the top picture the teacher with the balding head and moustache would be Stuart Blackshaw; I remember him from Rochford Hundred Rugby Club. I believe Chris Dismore was also a teacher there at the same time; also played for Rochford

    By Peter Houghton (21/08/2016)
  • Hi, I was in 5m back in 1969-70. I remember Mr Masson very well, who sadly died, very eccentric and always took us for chat in his “little room” where he sneaked a fag. Sadly my best mate Terry Severn passed away in May but what happened to others like Stuart McGowan, Maria Murphy, Andrew Salter the Mount brothers? 

    By Howard Embery (28/07/2016)
  • I was at Appleton School from 1975 to 1980 nee Lazell. Hated every second I spent there but it’s been lovely reading here names and places bringing back strong memories. My memorable teachers were Mrs Suglini ( biology) scary lady in class but extremely effective teacher and kind when I was struggling with  exam stress. Mr Thompson for Maths and Mr Bennett the mad RE  teacher. I did do it yourself o levels as most of the time classes were sheer anarchy. Can’t imagine OFSTED having been too impressed with Appleton in the 70s!!! 

    By Paula Jenkins (22/07/2016)
  • Appleton football team – yellow shirts

    back row, left to right- Colin SMitch’s brother, Gary Field, Gary Coldwell, Marcel Porcar, Gary Pettifor, Gary Davies, Graham ?, Robert Fellows

    front row – Andy Martin, Colin Smith, Ian Webb, Daryl Nunn, David Lazell, ?

    in front – Gary Dance

    By David Lazell (12/06/2016)
  • Lovely to read about some of the people I recall from those school years 1966- 1971.   I have attended two school reunions.  I see I have not been forgotten by Sheila.

    By Gillian Smith (10/06/2016)
  • Hi Angela,

    I left Appleton in 1971. My form teacher was a Mr Webster. I remember Mrs Mills too, quite a stern woman and a match for Mr Musson!

    I beleive the small shop at the end of Croft road was owned by the Grove family. I went to school with Stephen Groves.

    By Bill West (07/06/2016)
  • Oh my what a lovely trip down memory lane. I left Appleton in 1971. I was only there for the last year of my school life but I have many happy memories and I remember you Lesley. 

    By Terri Randle nee Hammerton (04/06/2016)
  • I forgot to add my English teacher Mr Morgan drove a blue Capri car, if anyone remembers him please send a message. I was at school with Caroline fountain, Jackie Jones, Diane Piercy and Elaine Pell.

    By Jackie Leggett nee grainger (16/04/2016)
  • I was at Appleton School till 1977 and I remember the English Teacher with the red hair, I think her name was Mrs Mills she was great and also Mr Snell Maths Teacher though not so great I hated Maths. The PE teachers were strict too, though I can’t remember their names one was a woman. Can anyone remember there being a very small sweet shop somewhere near the school?

    By Angela Davis (10/04/2016)
  • I thought our english teacher the one who had a heart attack name was Mr Morgan am I wrong?  I was at Appleton from 1971 to 1976.

    Would anyone be able to tell me what happened to Mr Morgan, he had a heart attack left appleton then came back then left permanently. 

    My maiden name was jackie grainger, I would love to know what happened to him, many thanks.

    By jackie leggett nee grainger (04/04/2016)
  • Hi, I was at Appleton 1973-78. I  loved Mr Ashton teaching us about the blood and guts of history, and of course Mrs Grimes in her white trousers! I only remember Lovegrove as head teacher. I remember the hippy art teacher and the drama teacher name beginning with P?

     

    By Caroline Rixon (07/02/2016)
  • +1 for Ashton and Garton!

    Terrific teachers

    By Martin P (04/02/2016)
  • Hi everyone pupil from 1971 – 1976, I went to Appleton between these dates I would love to catch up with my old english teacher Mr Morgan, also anyone who remembers me. The teachers I remember were Mr Jones, Mr Ashton, Mr Ashley, Mrs Grimes and Miss Ellis but memory not that good these days lol.  pls either contact me on e mail or Facebook I now live in Suffolk.

    By Jackie Leggett nee Grainger (06/01/2016)
  • Bill Wakeham . . . yes, it’s beef! Heartening to learn that you’re still in the land of the living. ATB

    By Graham Pugh (04/11/2015)
  • I remember you Graham Pugh, and all the other names mentioned. It’s Bill Wakeham.

    By Bill Wakeham (18/10/2015)
  • I recall from a couple of the posters above some class mates; Allen Playfair and Peter Penn, Guy Parker, Mickey Reagan also remember, with affection, Sheila Deer. I also recall Geoffrey Richardson, Terry Rowe, John Oakman, Paul Axbey, and Michael Polley to name but a few, sorry if I’ve missed a couple out as my memory isn’t all that great nowadays!

    Also recall our Form Master, Mr Jones (PE).

    Does anyone else remember our trip to South Wales to represent the English Schoolboys in rugby. We got hammered; their return visit / match wasn’t any good for us either. Our girls did take a fancy to the Welsh lads!

    I remember with affection Mr. Yardley, we had a Wayfarer dinghy which we painted navy blue. This was sailed around the creek. Also had a canoe club which was taken by a young temporary PE teacher (Mr.Bevan?).

    The boys only camping club went to Germany and had a great time. We travelled by two mini busses driven each by the two Mr Jones’, PE and Science. Those who I can remember from this trip are Brendan Foster and Terry Severn.

    Also recall distant class mates, Andrew Salter and Bill (It’s Beef), sorry Bill, can’t remember your surname!
    I remember Miss Lucy (nee Sachon), our Art Teacher, (very with-it and tuned-in to us youngsters). Also remember Mr Selwood who was my previous Art Teacher.

    Must give a mention to Mr Ashdown, History Teacher (absolutely brilliant) as was Mr Garton English Teacher; Mr Webster, my Form Master after Mr Jones (PE). Mr Cutmore for woodwork, again, a nice teacher with a good approach to teaching.

    On reflection, Mr Haynes was a BRILLIANT headmaster a true captain of his ship. Yes, I had been in his office and had the cane wagged in front of my face. It was my fault, I deserved it. No lasting harm, but I learnt a lesson.
    I suspect why messrs Parker, Penn and Playfair, as mentioned above had the taste of “You Boy, Come Here”, was because they were loathe to have their hair cut!

    I was made a Sub-Prefect and because of some “misunderstanding” I wasn’t promoted to full Prefect; low and behold on my leaving report it was stated that I achieved the position of full Prefect. How’s that!

    I remember having to participate in a sponsored walk to raise money for the School Swimming Pool. Never, ever, to this day have I seen, let alone swum, in that pool!

    We had the end of year leaving dance in the sports hall, nothing like the money-spinning affairs of todays americanised “Prom”.

    Years after I left school I bumped into a Mr Les Drayton, (old RAF type), supply teacher at Appleton, and he informed me that John Garton (English teacher), had upped sticks and moved to a Greek island and was living the life of a hermit.

    That’s all from me – happy memories!

    By Graham Pugh (10/08/2015)
  • I don’t remember Mr Haynes going red in the face so much, but I do remember the several mass detentions where the entire school was gathered in assembly until someone confessed to writing on the toilet walls. Mr Musson was English and Music… totally inappropriate to describe him as Himmler to Mr Haynes’ Hitler  (but he sort of was!). Old school, but kind of admirable. Education by rote, but it worked (It shouldn’t have and I wish it didn’t… I still love “As You Like It” the best). Peter Sellwood left at the end of our four year. Like losing your father.

     

    By Mike Pazda (04/07/2015)
  • I would just like to correct that Appleton school opened sep 1965. Love Peter Murrays comment on Mr Haynes and Mr Jones, we was all s*** scared of Mr Haynes but mr Jones was a gooden.

    By Gerald Griffiths (10/06/2015)
  • The photo dated 1972 shows David Barratt, Jill Autie and Susan Burgess. I remember each but Sue and Jill I would love to hear from via Facebook. 

    Sue Schutz nee Robinson

    By Sue Schutz (08/03/2015)
  • I left Appleton in 1987 and if it was the same Mr Moore, who teached RE then as in 1971 then I understand he is a regular at the Essex Cricket Ground in Chelmsford during the summer months.

    By Wayne Harris (27/02/2015)
  • Hallo. Not sure if anyone will remember me, Carol Barrett as was, horse mad at school, spent a lot of time trotting round the playground in a world of my own.  I remember Mr Moore well, I was good at RE (can’ think why!), and Mr Selwood for art. Who was our English teacher? Was it Mrs Mills? She had red hair, she took us for drama as well, she was really inspirational. And maybe Mr Garton or Garston for History, which I liked. Oh Mr Musson, he had a hard time with Tony Beavis and Edward Biggs, wonder what happened to them? Miss Jefferies was the bane of my life, apparently I wasn’t ‘respectful’ enough. Hmmm. Lesley I remember the Venice trip! My Mum had knitted me the brightest orange cardigan to take with me, you could have seen it from space, and I lost in it a canal. Oops. And there were shenanigans in the hotel in Italy, lots of high jinks. I do generally remember us all rattling round the school..our year..as we were only the second intake the school seemed huge and people kept getting lost. Probably on purpose….By the way I’m still horse mad. xxxxxx

    By Carol Barnett (21/02/2015)
  • Oh my God!!!! How nice to see the names of teachers we once belonged to x Les and Celia hi xxx and Peter how very nice to hear you have done well. You were the heart throb for so many of us girls, and I’m sure you remember Gillian Smith. Perhaps we are all due a reunion soon xxxxxxxxx8yr49.

    By sheila dear (28/01/2015)
  • Hi Robert, We are all reaching 60 and how time flies since leaving school. I had a 60th birthday and Ruby and Jim Colverson came. Jim is over 80 and they are both in good health. Find me on Facebook …surname Utton and have  a good look at some great photos. 

    By Lesley Utton (17/11/2014)
  • Remember you well Lesley Stratford and others of class 71. Eddie Haynes was a character. Where is my old flame Rosalind Hall?

    By Robert Raymond (09/10/2014)
  • Hi,

    Was the first intake 1964-65 or 65-66 or different year?  

    Thanks 🙂

    By jb (11/09/2014)
  • Ah my first real love was Ann Wakerling….where is she now I wonder. I went to Appleton in 1967 and my teacher was the wonderful Mrs Grimes. I was in the Jarvis colours at PE which was green. Loved Mr Cutmore and after that I found the teachers a little grim.There was a hot art teacher from Yorkshire but I forget her name….but not her face…If anyone knew me from that time please feel free to contact me.

    By Philip Brooker (11/07/2014)
  • I was one of the first intakes at this school and probably the first to forcibly have to leave. I regret having been one of the first to be made to try out the dreadful comprehensive system in the UK and ever having met up with the evil Haynes, Mutton, Jones and crew.

    Thankfully I went on to better things, have become a successful business man and travelled around the world more than once and still do. I now live in Ireland.

    Yes Allen I am still alive and remember you well old friend but recall Appleton only with bad memories. I loved school and these teachers did their level best to try and change this, which they managed.

    By Peter Penn (09/07/2014)
  • Just looked at my last entry and noticed an appalling spell mistake (there instead of their). Appleton taught us better than that!

    By Allen Playfair (12/03/2014)
  • I was in the first intake when the school opened 1964(5?). Anyone else for this time still alive?.

    My son-in-law went to Appleton as well (many years later) and sent me the picture supposedly from 1966/67. Thought I was going senile when I couldn’t remember any of the teachers or pupils in the picture, glad someone has now got the right time frame for it.

    I also remember Mr Selwood – Art, Mr. Jones P.E. (my form teacher for some years). another Mr. Jones I think – science, Mr. Webster (later form teacher), Mr Cutmore – Woodwork, Mr Yardley – Technical Drawing. Must be more but can’t remember there names at the moment.

    I thought Mr Haynes retired before 1973. I left in 1969(70?) and I thought he had already gone by then. 

    By Allen Playfair (11/03/2014)
  • I am on the front row of the year photo 1971 nee Stratford. My form teacher was Mr Moore RE. I remember Miss Jefferies Deputy Head and of course Mr Haynes the Head. We visited Venice by train in 1970 and had milk in a bottle for morning break. School dinners were a shilling and I would cycle my Rayleigh RSW 16 bike to school. Girls wore summer dresses which were made in Needlework lessons and Miss Jeffrey, in assembly, would measure from the floor to check that uniforms were not too short and then instruct girls to roll down the skirts to just below the knee.

    By Lesley Utton (09/03/2014)
  • I agree with Kevin Hughes, the picture shown as 1966/67 is actually 1976. My brother Clint Courtney is in it, seated, 6th from the left front. The teachers names listed come flooding back, so long ago but very happy memories.

    By Vince Courtney (04/03/2014)
  • The picture at the top of the page is dated incorrectly; the correct date would be 1976, still recognise a few faces.

    Kevin Hughes

    1971 to 1976

    By Kevin Hughes (24/02/2014)
  • I remember Mr Sellwood the art teacher, Mrs Grimes for music, Mr Jones the welsh rugby wizard and Mr Cutmore for woodwork.

    I also remember Miss Knott for English. It all went by in a blur.

    If only I’d taken a bit more notice!!

    By William West (20/01/2014)
  • Anyone from class of 1983 out there?

    By Maxine Smith (19/05/2013)
  • Being one of the original class at Appleton School I remember the demonic Jones and Haynes as being a pair of nut cases that should have been certified a long time ago. What they got away with then in 1966 they would get twenty years for now but they were still the best years of my life.

    By Peter Murray (02/08/2012)
  • I attended Appleton School 1968 – 1971. I remember Mr Haynes with his flowing black cape, his deputy Miss Geoffries, Mr Musson, Mr Ellis, (who all the girls fell for), Mrs Grimes, Mr Lambinuion and Miss Hennesy.

    By Celia Slate (09/10/2011)

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