The St. Nicholas Parents' Association 08 (1964-65)

SAINT NICHOLAS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

PARENTS' ASSOCIATION

President: The Headmaster

Chairman 1963-64: D. M. C. Gordon, Esq.

Chairman 1964-65: Mrs. R. Henderson

Another Annual Report! The usual mundane listing of events and names? Yes, and I do not apologise, for two very good reasons. Firstly, if what we have done during the year was worth doing, then surely it will bear repetition and will evoke pleasant memories for those who took part in the events. Secondly, it will give to those who are new to the School an insight into the affairs of the Association they have been invited to join.

This has not, perhaps, been an outstanding year; there has been no exciting function like the opening of the Junior Common Room. But we have been able to see that building become an integral part of the School, to realise its value to the older boys, and to feel that, in spite of all the difficulties, it has all been well worthwhile. Furthermore, we may feel gratified that, during the year the Building Fund debt has been reduced to £750, a clearly attainable target in 1965.

Our social functions were well attended and included the Padrams' production of Bonaventure, a most interesting film evening, arranged by Mr. Jefford. a car rally and the annual dance which attracted a record number of parents and friends to the Rayners Hotel.

One innovation was a competition in which boys of the School exhibited colour slides of their holidays, provided their own commentaries and competed for prizes presented by the Association. This proved a most interesting and entertaining evening. Congratulations to all competitors and thanks to Mr. B. J. Clarke, who organised the evening.

In February it was decided to revive the Social Evenings which had been a feature of our programmes in earlier years and so successful did the first one prove that a further evening was arranged in October. We are indebted to Mr. Ingram, who arranged for demonstrations of Square Dancing by some American friends at both these meetings, which closed with Square Dancing by the entire company.

We must not forget the important part played by the School in providing much pleasure and entertainment during the year, notably the excellent production of Penny for a Song, the customary musical feast at the School Concert, the beautiful Carol Service and the inspiring St. Nicholas Day Service at Emmanuel, Northwood.

St. Nicholas Fair was blessed with a beautiful day and attracted the usual large crowd. Thanks mainly to the organising ability and skill of Mr. Plenderleith, Mr. Deacon and Mr. Hudson, and the untiring efforts of the ladies under Mrs. Powell and Mrs. Deacon, the needs of everyone were catered for and the Association's funds benefited to the extent of £596 10s. 24d.

Under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Deacon and Mrs. Henderson the ladies of the Catering Committee and the Games Refreshments Committee have once again seen to it that refreshments have been served at every Association function and after each School sports fixture. We are very grateful to them all.

At the end of the year the Association lost the services of several committee members who have been indefatigable in their efforts for the Association over a long period. We say a sincere "thank you" to Mr. and Mrs. Deacon, Mrs. Powell, Mr. Ingram and Mr. Hardy as they retire from office. It is good to know that we may still call on them for help when it is needed.

The past year has been a very happy and rewarding one for me, as your Chairman, and in thanking the officers, Committee and members for their friendship and loyal support during my term of office I should like to pay a particular tribute to Mr. Hudson, as Secretary of the Association. Rarely have i met anyone who got through so much work with so little fuss.

Now the Association has embarked on another year, for the first time with a lady in the chair. One of the School's most enthusiastic supporters and workers, Mrs. Henderson, and her new Committee will, I know, lead the Association happily and efficiently through yet another year.

D.M.C.G.