Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin GREAT MEMORIES - GREAT TRADITIONS

Recollections of a past Principal

I had the great honour of being Principal at Edward Public School from 1977 to 1988. Without doubt these were some of the most rewarding years of my teaching career.

First impressions are always important. After teaching in many New South Wales schools I couldn’t believe how appreciative Edward students were of how adults were trying to assist them. This of course motivated teachers and the broader school community to enhance and enrich the overall educational experience. All staff members were totally committed to providing the best education possible. The parent body and the general community united in supporting Edward school.

This indeed was an amazing environment to embark on some great enhancing educational activities.

To broaden the outside of Deniliquin experiences the staff were determined to have an extensive excursion policy. To do this, money was essential and hence followed amazing fundraising activities. The Edward School fete was massive, highly successful, hard work but great fun. Vivid memories of Sonia Rapley and Margaret Smith working on the giant raffle, Des Lutton extracting amazing prizes from local businesses for “Pick a Box” and every staff member contributing in some form, backed up by a hard working Parents and Citizens Association. There were often many sore heads at the clean-up on Sunday mornings. Other highly successful fundraisers followed, some of which continue today. The good old school concert got severely modified to be a music hall type activity with patrons enjoying top entertainment and a superb meal.

The Edward School Production was born! So engrossed were adults and students in presenting a memorable spectacular that rehearsals even occurred at the weekend. I can still visualise “Alley Cat” and “Bound for Botany Bay”. Special performances were often presented to community groups such as Rotary. The broader community quickly realised that Edward school was a vital educational community with a very dedicated staff strongly supported by parents. Walkathons and Ride-a-thon s were often coupled with sponsorship, so not only was physical fitness strongly emphasised but finances were enhanced.

As a result of money raised and government grants programs, the school purchased a complete camping outfit, including kitchen type equipment to cater for up to 50 students. Younger students camped overnight at Bolton’s property and by Year 5 and 6 horizons were broadened with wonderful trips to places such as Ballarat, Canberra and Melbourne. These experiences enriched the lives of so many students and staff.

To prepare students for the challenges of adult life it was apparent that a strong emphasis on basic skills was essential. Set teaching times using all available staff characterised learning activities at Edward. Students had the opportunity to maximise their potential, as many over the years have done. Having Bob Armytage as a teacher in Year 6 meant hard work but what a fantastic academic grounding!

The emphasis on creative arts and improving the learning environment resulted in fun