On a particularly bad attack of indigestion. Received 2 tickets to the Phormio, which he gave to his doctor and his amanuensis. The Epilogue, a satire on the Chartists of the day, was received with much applause - will be published in The Times on the 19th. The last time he and JB saw the play was in 1779 - 2 lead characters, Dickens and Kelly, went to Oxford the following spring. Quotes a line referring to a set of gamblers known as blacklegs. Refers to Welch's List of the Scholars of Westminster School. Does JB exercise on horseback or on shanks' pony, as their schoolboy expression had it (NB very early use of this phrase)?
Inscription: 'Westminster School George By Henderson Bequest King's Scholars vs Town Boys Rowing Cup'. Not loaded. No cover. Donor: George By Henderson. Awarded: 1919-1979. Handles.
Busy life at Westminster. Cliques and the effect of the arrival of girls in sixth form. [4.09] Stayed in touch with surprisingly few Westminster schoolmates. [6.21] PHAB. How it has changed over the years. His work gave it more stability, health and safety clearance and financial stability. [10.54] PHAB’s expansion over the years, and possible reasons for its growth. [13.54] Difference between his school days and time as a teacher. School now seems better able to help pupils who are less academically gifted than the others. School takes part in more outreach and charity work. School facilities much better. The Manoukian Music Centre, Millicent Fawcett Hall [theatre], Weston’s [classrooms] and Lawrence Hall [sports centre] were all acquired after his schooldays. [16.20] Difficult to tell if there’s been a change in ethos. Still promotes individuality. [18.07] Effects of internet. [19.25] Effects of increased numbers of pupils. [21.28] How his experience of the school has changed now he’s a teacher. [23.06] Will miss colleagues and pupils, but not the physical place. [26.12] His future plans. His move to the London Academy of Excellence. Potential to make a difference to social mobility. How he will interpret the role. [31.11] Proud moments as a pupil. [33.22] Proud moments as a teacher. The changed atmosphere in Ashburnham. The house publication The Ash Tree and house concerts and plays. The house has become a community. Has enjoyed his time as a teacher.
