Stuart Bird CO64
From Chemistry to Cathedral
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Stuart Bird CO64 was at Truro School from 1959 to 1964. He transferred to Truro as a boarder in the 4th Year when his father went to work in South America. He fondly remembers the glorious views on his steam train journey from Paddington to Truro.
“We were in our A-Level practical class, preparing nitrobenzene. The flask contained a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acids, which were added together whilst cooling. Then benzene was slowly added, making sure the mixture didn’t overheat. Unfortunately, my flask DID overheat, and noxious brown fumes poured out Stuart joined Truro School in the same of the condenser, to create not just year Mr Derek Burrell (TS 1959-1986) nitrobenzene but potentially explosive was appointed headmaster; they trinitrobenzene. I was worried, and immediately struck up a lasting bond George instinctively but calmly moved us as they had both come from London. all back. By now I was at the back of the Mr Burrell never tolerated bullying and class cowering behind the bench! He was helped create a secure environment for very reassuring and, with typical aplomb, Stuart in his early days at Truro School. cooled the flask under cold water, and the reaction subsided. I wondered what gave In the 4th Year, Stuart enjoyed ballroom dancing with the girls from the High School George Pester this amazing coolness under pressure…. I later learnt he was and his O-Level and A-Level Chemistry lessons with Mr George Pester (TS 1954- a bomb disposal officer in the Army!” 1977). Stuart marvelled at Mr Pester’s ‘unflappable approach’ to chemistry in the days before health and safety.
