READING about this year’s A-level results in the Journal brought back many memories to Michael Barnard of his own school days when the anxiety of exams during the summer months built up to such a pitch that the only escape from wondering what was to be was to get engrossed in drawing or painting a picture about as far away as possible from maths, French or algebra. He talked to Gerry Barnett about it.

 

“I DID this,” he explained, “with the help of my art teacher, Miss Knight, who took our whole class out into the orchard where the Arts Centre now stands.

“She sat us all down with pencil and paper and taught us how to draw fruit trees and, above all, the marvellous cloudscapes to be wondered at throughout the years.”

The results of the exams in Mr Barnard’s case caused more tears than smiles, with most results less than 50 per cent, but at least art showed promise with 98 per cent every time.

“I suppose on today’s results that would mean an A*,” Mr Barnard said.

Reading the article, he said, filled him with admiration for the achievements of the students and especially of Elizabeth Sandham and Nicholas Waller’s results at Prince Henry’s.

“Over the years I have drawn and painted many pictures of my old school,” Mr Barnard said, “and on reflection they were some of the happiest days of my life.

“Coming from a family with four of my aunts being teachers and an uncle a headmaster, I found their dedication was second to none.

“My favourite film of all time is the famous school story Goodbye, Mr Chips and it is to the headmasters I have known – Dr Hazlehurst and Mr Venables – go my sincere thanks for all their help and understanding over so many of my schooldays.

“May I wish Mr Bernard Roberts, head teacher at Prince Henry’s for 19 years, a very happy retirement. Thank you for the memories, and it is to Prince Henry’s that my picture is dedicated.”

Mr Barnard is looking forward to visiting Prince Henry’s on the open evening today, when he hopes to meet the new head, Dr Tony Evans.