Mexborough and Swinton Times May 22, 1936

Old Denaby School
Not Affected By Reorganisation

On Friday the scheme for the reorganisation of the Conisbrough’s schools was outlined at a meeting of Old Denaby parents by Mr F. A. J. Rivett, West Riding Inspector of Schools. The meeting, which was held at the old Denaby School, was presided over by the Vicar of Mexborough, the Rev. E. B. A. Somerset, and the Divisional Clerk, Mr E. B. Stockdale, was also present.

Mr Rivett referred to the broad basis of the scheme which was founded in the Hadow report. The report pointed out that educational progress would be facilitated by the grouping together of children of the 11 and upwards for the purposes of a specialised education. For the last 10 years the scheme had been put into operation in various parts of the country, children of 11 years and over being grouped together in senior schools.

In the “old-fashioned” schools all the children of the same age had been grouped together without regard for the mental capacity. In the new senior schools however, where the children are gathered together from a large area, it was possible to test the 400 boys and girls and arrange them according to their capacity. In the new schools the children were able to have training in special subjects by teachers who had been specially prepared. It was found that the children had made great progress under these improved facilities, the special subjects included domestic science, ordinary science, woodwork, needlework and metalwork.

Mr Rivett went on to say that the Morley Place school at Denaby was being reorganised so as to provide a senior school for the whole of the area. With regard to the transport of children, the West Riding County authority was prepared to convey them to the school from a point near their homes. Meals could be taken by the children and warmed up under supervision.

The religious instruction of the children would be under the system laid down by the West Riding authority. But if desired the children could be withdrawn from the school for special religious instruction under the Anson by-law. It was pointed out by Mr Rivett that the Old Denaby School would lose nothing by the the organisation. The teachers of the school would have a lighter task, and there would be no loss financially.

Following the meeting there was considerable discussion, and Mr Rivett answered a number questions. Those taking part in discussion were Messrs. R. Earnshaw, G. O. Grandison, A. Ashby, H. Like, H. H. Neil, Mrs W. H. Besford and Mrs H. H. Neil, the authorities expressed gratitude at the interest shown by the parents in the meeting. A further meeting will be held on May 25.