Chelmsford Mining and Technical College
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CHELMSFORD MINING AND TECHNICAL INSTITUTE.
By Allan Harvey
On Wednesday 10th October 1928, the official opening of 'The Chelmsford Mining and Technical Institute, Dinnington, took place. The Institute had been erected at a cost of about £24,000, towards which, the Miners' Welfare Committee made the magnificent grant of £17,500. In recognition of this and of the great services rendered to Mining Education generally by the R. Hon. Viscount Chelmsford GCSI, GCMG, GCIE, GBE, Chairman of the Miners' Welfare Committee, the Education Committee expressed great desire that the Institute be named after him; (this caused great postal confusion). They were happy to secure his assent to this and also to come and open the building. Sir Percy Jackson JP, LLD, Chairman of the Education Committee presided. On inspecting the handsome building and its up to date equipment, Lord Chelmsford expressed his gratification with it. Later, in the course of his address, he said that if there was one industry at the present moment that wanted all the help that science and skill could give it, that was the Mining Industry. He also said that we did not want this country to become industrialised, body and soul. He expressed the hope that the Institute would serve for the highest purposes, not merely in equipping man for his technical calling, but in equipping him in the highest sense as a citizen of this country.
The establishing of the College was acclaimed as a bold venture and an act of faith by the West Riding Education Committee.
The site for the Institute was chosen at Dinnington probably because of the influence of County Councillors James Drabble and Richard Rush. The local Grammar School could also have been built at Dinnington, but political influence had waned here with the influence of Edward Dunn from Maltby. He became MP for Rother Valley after Thomas Grundy. Maltby Grammar School was opened by Sir Percy Jackson in 1932.
Time has proved that the Institute site was well chosen and that the building is one of character. The Institute was built primarily to cater for the demand for technical and cultural education and particularly to satisfy the need for instruction in mining subjects for employees at the local collieries.
Previously mining classes were held at Laughton Council School under Mr Harry Ralph with preliminary courses at Dinnington Council School. Mr Ralph's first impressions of Dinnington were when he rode along Doe Quarry Lane on horseback. He was a soldier in the 1914-18 war and was stationed under canvas at Sandbeck Park. That he would one day be the Principal at a Technical Institute to be built on that road would have been the furthest thing from his mind.
A man of influence in technical education was Mr George Foster, adviser to the West Riding Education Committee. He was responsible for much of the planning, equipment and staffing of the Institute. His name was perpetuated by his introduction of a technical drawing board, which by its shape enforced the horizontal use only, of the Tee square. There are still some of these boards in existence, but they did not attract national acclaim. During the early years of the Institute, mining students were too few to use all the facilities available and there were no engineering courses.
Evening courses in mining, agriculture, building, commerce and housecraft were offered at this time. Of particular interest were courses designed over a three year basis for grocers, these courses enjoying the support of the Institute of Certificated Grocers who assisted in the conduct of the classes by supplying examples of commodities and facilitating students' visits to places of interest.
The subjects taken on this course were English, commercial arithmetic, commodities, book keeping, business methods and law. Separate courses for meat traders were organised in collaboration with the Meat Traders Association. There was also a retail trader's course, the syllabus of which included salesmanship, colour and design. The course fee was 5/- per session. In addition the Institute, some in conjunction with the W.E.A. offered non-vocational classes as follows: -
Modern Economic Problems.
Literature and Drama.
Choral Music.
Philosophy of Evolution.
Dramatic Art.
String Music Class.
Orchestral Class.
Physical Exercises and Hygiene for Men.
Physical Exercises and Hygiene for Women.
Photography.
Principles of Wireless.
Classes, however, were offered at Evening Institutes in the area at North and South Anston, Kiveton Park, Laughton, Harthill, Thurcroft, Maltby, Wickersley, Swallownest and Treeton.
In order to facilitate students travelling to and from the Institute, the West Riding Education Committee provided bus services to convey students to and from classes at the least possible inconvenience and expense. Automatic machines were installed in the Institute to supply 3d. and 1d. tickets. Students were required to provide themselves with tickets up to the value of their correct fare. The following single fares were prescribed: -
Treeton to Institute 9d.
Swallownest to Institute 6d.
Maltby to Institute 4d.
Wales to Institute 4d.
Kiveton Park to Institute 3d.
Laughton and Aston to Institute 1d.
The prospectus of the time states that 'fares for intermediate picking-up points will be given on application to the Principal' and that ‘Bent or worn coins must not be used in the machine'.
Before the coming of the Institute, the Workers' Education Association had begun classes in the basement of Dinnington Primary School. These classes moved to the Institute and attracted a strong following, making increasing use of the facilities in this fine building. Many students cultivated a taste for literature, music and drama as a result of these classes. However, the Institute was still very much under-used and was referred to by many as a 'white elephant'.
Some names come to mind of people, who gave long service to the Institute as members of the Board of Governors. There was Mr Richard Rush (the Chairman), Mr Alfred Tingle, Mr Joe Bailey, Mr William Cloke of Thurcroft and Mrs Alice Rastall.
There were 200 applicants for the job of caretaker at a wage of £2 per week. Mr William Collier was the first successful applicant, since that time there have been at least five caretakers.
In the late 1920's Junior Technical Schools came into vogue and in 1931 the West Riding Education Authority decided to organise such a school in the Institute, which had become known as the 'Tech'; it was to be under the same Principal.
These schools had a considerable element of vocation in their curricula; this was later despised by influential leaders in education and was largely discontinued. Today, we now have pressure from high places to re-introduce more vocational content into secondary education.
Dinnington Junior Technical School began with courses in commercial subjects, workshop engineering, housecraft and the usual humanities. There was a well-equipped gymnasium. The age of entry to the school was 13 plus and a place was won by competitive examination. The course was of two years duration and concluded with an internal certificate examination. The badge for the school blazer had a miner's lamp included in its design and the motto was ' Fiat Lux'.
The two organisations progressed amicably under the same roof. Mr Geoffrey Dix was Head of Department Mining and later combined this post with that of Head of Department at the Rotherham College of Technology. Some Technical Schoolteachers had periods of secondment to the Mining Department.
In 1935 there was serious unemployment and agricultural courses lapsed. Progress at the Institute was sporadic and slowed down. An active Students' Council however, organised social functions and was responsible for letting the premises to outside bodies. The gymnasium was used for dancing (no floor powder was allowed) and this amenity provided opportunities for young people to meet under good conditions. The gym. was also used for concerts and dramatic productions. Laboratory and workshop facilities were inadequate for the breadth of courses offered.
In 1936 extensions were begun with the building of the main hall and kitchens, followed in 1944 by much improved workshops behind the Institute. It was now possible to offer a comprehensive building course in the Junior Tech., this included carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing and plastering. Part-time Further Education classes also enjoyed the better facilities.
It was an important event when the young people of the village were invited to a social function in the new hall, 300 attended and during the evening Mrs Edwards Reece addressed the 'children' and told them about plans for forming youth clubs in the area. She made many promises, which have been slowly fulfilled. A youth club was formed in the Tech., which was run by volunteers. A young man had come from London to take part in the 'Bevin Boy' scheme at the colliery; this was an alternative to service in the armed forces during the war. He was an apprentice diamond cutter, his name was Percy Cohen and he became youth leader and developed the club until it almost dominated the Institute when in session. Eventually the club was transferred to the Junior School.
From 1941 until 1947 a squadron of the Air Training Corps, No. 1325 was in being at the Institute. The Principal and members of his staff were the officers. There was a brass band section which was directed by the late Mr Fred. Wilbourne. It proved to be a very worth while activity for its members. There was a close liaison with RAF Finningley.
During the war years the activities of the Institute were curtailed, as were the annual summer holidays organised in the Junior Tech. School. A course in domestic science for WAAFs and some workshop training for women was organised. The Air Raid Precaution organisation was assisted with maintenance of their vehicles.
When the coal mines were nationalised, trainees were sent to the Institute for 13 weeks initial training. One of the early arrivals was Fred. Trueman, he didn't stay long, but his innate ebullience was very obvious.
Mining trainees who showed promise were interviewed and those who were successful were offered NCB apprenticeships in mechanical and electrical engineering, this amounted to a valuable scholarship. From this time, part-time day courses increased a great deal. The West Riding Education Committee acquired Throapham Manor in 1948 and the Principal prepared a scheme for it to be a base for mining trainees. However, there was a change in policy and Throapham Manor became an annex to the Junior Technical School. For twelve years geography, music, French and engineering subjects were taught there. Unfortunately before the end of the lease it ceased to be used and soon became a target for vandals, it was a great pity because the interior of the Manor had some very attractive features.
There was an honours board in the main corridor of the Institute, the use of which was discontinued through lack of interest; Arthur Eames name was on it. He worked down Dinnington pit and then graduated at Sheffield University. During the Second World War he was Food Controller for Northeast England. Lawrence Lacey BA appeared on the board twice. He won a Violet Markham Essay Prize, went to Coleg Harlec and graduated at Sheffield University. He worked for the British Council in a number of countries; he became Deputy Director and retired to Madrid. It would however, require a very big honours board to take all the names of the old students of the Tech. who have acquitted themselves very creditably in many walks of life.
The farm buildings were erected about 1949 and once more agriculture became a subject in the school curriculum. Production has always been operated on a business footing, pig-rearing being a speciality.
The post-war years were a time of consolidation, steady progress and happy relationships. The Tech. was increasing its reputation as a focal point and a centre of interest academically and socially.
The formation of the Mining Society was an important event. Mr G. Dix, Mr E. Rist and Mr G. Bowen were largely responsible for this. Social functions, lectures, exhibitions and visits were features in its programme.
A choral group and a dramatic group existed for some years under a well-known teacher, Miss Pansy Moore; many public concerts were given. Later when the hall was built, Mr Lawrence Lacey produced several plays including Sheridan's 'School for Scandal' and 'Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure'. The Youth Service promoted competitive Drama Festivals annually. The Dinnington and District Operatic Society changed their base from the Lyric Theatre to the Tech. much to their advantage. They produced 'The Gondoliers' and a number of musicals including 'The Belle of New York', 'Katrinka', 'Rio Rita' and 'Tulip Time'.
The Junior Technical School took part in some very good athletic competitions in the South Yorkshire Technical Schools' Sports Association. There were also annual visits to the coast by a large number of pupils and staff. The Principal found great value in these holidays and joy for himself and his family; for the pupils of course, they were wonderful holidays. South Cliff, Bridlington was a very popular venue. Complete camping equipment was hired from the Army; this was erected by an advance party under the direction of Mr C.D. Graves. A few days later some eighty odd pupils and staff would follow in Foster's coaches or by rail and a fully self-sufficient holiday would begin.
Later there were more ambitious holidays on the continent. A memorable holiday was spent in a residential Technical School in Ostend (1959). The scale of vocational training at this school made our own look rather insignificant. Another happy holiday was spent in Dinard, France and yet another one at Bray in Ireland. The Old Students' dances were always a tremendous success, as much for the talking as the dancing.
This record would be incomplete without reference to Mrs Dronfield who was the cook-in-charge for many years. Her culinary skills were much appreciated for their excellence. County officials knew where to come for a good mid-day meal.
An Evening Institute Badminton Club was formed in which the Principal took a very active interest. The club is still in existence (certainly until the mid 1980's).
His Majesties Inspectors reported satisfactorily on the Chelmsford Mining and Technical Institute in 1950. One comment in the report was "It is recognised that the possibilities of development in the area served by the Institute are limited". The catchment area included Maltby, Kiveton, Thurcroft, Whiston, Treeton and Catcliffe. The development in these areas has been somewhat beyond expectations.
Increased teaching space became necessary and a detached building was erected by the southeast corner of the Institute. In the first instance this comprised a laboratory (later an engineering workshop), a drawing office and a common room with a small kitchen.
The administrative staff at this time comprised two ladies in a small office. The non-teaching help in the workshops consisted of old students who had 'stayed on'. Following the 1950 Inspectors' report, a recommendation that there should be a full time technician was implemented.
Around 1952, the Principal had a serious illness and was absent for more than a year. The Senior Master too, became ill and Mr J. Pryce was sent as supply Master-in-charge, his responsibility was for the Junior Technical School which had about 600 pupils on roll. Meanwhile Mr G. Dix was responsible for the Mining and Technical side of the Institute.
James Pryce was a Welshman, a rugby fanatic and a schoolmaster in the old tradition, in teaching and discipline. He re-organised the Junior Technical School and introduced General Certificate Examinations very successfully. This meant that courses were extended to three years for 'O' level and further for 'A' level exams. He was firmly established as Head of the Secondary School when Mr Ralph returned. There was then a Principal and a Headmaster with quite separate functions. Mr Stratford, the Senior Master, also returned for a brief period before his death, and then Mr C.D. Graves was appointed Senior Master.
When Mr Ralph retired in 1959 he had been Principal for more than 30 years. Under his leadership the Tech. progressed through fluctuating industrial and economic periods, including a war, to a threshold of unpredicted development. He was an individualist, but unobtrusive. His relationships with people and particularly with his staff were happy and kindly. He was one of nature's gentlemen.
The Rother Valley Institute of Further Education was established in 1959 with the appointment of Mr K.R. Roberts to be responsible for the Institute and Further Education Centres.
Mr J.W. Moreton was appointed as Headmaster of the new Comprehensive School circa 1962. Mr Roberts and Mr Moreton were jointly responsible for organising secondary education in the Dinnington area.
When the Junior Technical School and the Secondary Modern School were merged, 650 pupils came from the Tech. and 1000 came from the Modern School. Mr Pryce was appointed Deputy Head and Miss B. Tuke Head of Lower School, other members of the staffs were appointed to senior posts.
1963 saw the end of the Dinnington Junior Technical School. The school had provided a sound base for students who entered commerce, engineering and other professions. Many successful old students testify to this. It was also borne out by the fact that when the annual school leaving time came round, interviewing rooms had to be provided for representatives from firms in the Sheffield area who were eagerly seeking to employ the students who were available.
When the Junior Technical School left in 1964, the Institute urgently needed room to become available for the unprecedented expansion that was to take place, but the story of that can be told by others.
FURTHER NOTES ON THE CHELMSFORD MINING AND TECHNICAL INSITUTE
By Allan Harvey
The College façade is symmetrical in design and with the clock tower has considerable architectural character. Two things I particularly remember was the laying of the mosaic floors in the corridors - done by Italian workmen who obtained the final effect with abrasive pads used by hand. After all was finished, a mason came and sculptured a design at the apex of outside centerpiece, which is rarely noticed.
The first major extensions done in the 'eighties are pleasant and well planned; they cost in the region of £900,000 and would astound the founders if they were reincarnated. I have in mind such people as Mr Richard Rush (the first Chairman), Mr Alfred Tingle, Mrs Alice Rastall, Mr Joe Bailey and Mr William Cloke of Thurcroft
There were 200 applicants for the caretaker's post at a wage of £2 per week. Mr 'Bill' Collier was appointed and remained until his retirement. Bill wielded authority beyond his office of caretaker and at times it seemed questionable as whom to please most - him or the Principal! His older son, Roy was assistant caretaker for a time and he was remembered for supervising a College exam!
FURTHER NOTES ON THE HISTORY OF THE
MINING AND TECHNICAL INSTITUTE SINCE 1963
The Secondary Technical School moved to the new Comprehensive School buildings in 1964 and became part of the Dinnington Comprehensive School.
Mr D.W. Wheatley was appointed Principal following the retirement of Mr H. Ralph in 1964.
When Mr Wheatley left, another Principal was appointed whose name I have forgotten.
Mr J.D. Davis was appointed about 1966.
Mr B. Jowett was appointed about 1978, he retired in 1992.
A language laboratory was established in 1969.
Nursery nurse's courses started in about 1969.
Student numbers increased and many outside classrooms were built. The farm was developed and a large extension to the College costing upwards of £1M. was built around 1976.
Mr Killet was appointed the first Vice Principal about 1980.
Mining subjects ceased to be taught in about 1983.
About 1985 its name was changed again and it became the Rother Valley College of further Education.
By, A. Harvey.
By Allan Harvey
On Wednesday 10th October 1928, the official opening of 'The Chelmsford Mining and Technical Institute, Dinnington, took place. The Institute had been erected at a cost of about £24,000, towards which, the Miners' Welfare Committee made the magnificent grant of £17,500. In recognition of this and of the great services rendered to Mining Education generally by the R. Hon. Viscount Chelmsford GCSI, GCMG, GCIE, GBE, Chairman of the Miners' Welfare Committee, the Education Committee expressed great desire that the Institute be named after him; (this caused great postal confusion). They were happy to secure his assent to this and also to come and open the building. Sir Percy Jackson JP, LLD, Chairman of the Education Committee presided. On inspecting the handsome building and its up to date equipment, Lord Chelmsford expressed his gratification with it. Later, in the course of his address, he said that if there was one industry at the present moment that wanted all the help that science and skill could give it, that was the Mining Industry. He also said that we did not want this country to become industrialised, body and soul. He expressed the hope that the Institute would serve for the highest purposes, not merely in equipping man for his technical calling, but in equipping him in the highest sense as a citizen of this country.
The establishing of the College was acclaimed as a bold venture and an act of faith by the West Riding Education Committee.
The site for the Institute was chosen at Dinnington probably because of the influence of County Councillors James Drabble and Richard Rush. The local Grammar School could also have been built at Dinnington, but political influence had waned here with the influence of Edward Dunn from Maltby. He became MP for Rother Valley after Thomas Grundy. Maltby Grammar School was opened by Sir Percy Jackson in 1932.
Time has proved that the Institute site was well chosen and that the building is one of character. The Institute was built primarily to cater for the demand for technical and cultural education and particularly to satisfy the need for instruction in mining subjects for employees at the local collieries.
Previously mining classes were held at Laughton Council School under Mr Harry Ralph with preliminary courses at Dinnington Council School. Mr Ralph's first impressions of Dinnington were when he rode along Doe Quarry Lane on horseback. He was a soldier in the 1914-18 war and was stationed under canvas at Sandbeck Park. That he would one day be the Principal at a Technical Institute to be built on that road would have been the furthest thing from his mind.
A man of influence in technical education was Mr George Foster, adviser to the West Riding Education Committee. He was responsible for much of the planning, equipment and staffing of the Institute. His name was perpetuated by his introduction of a technical drawing board, which by its shape enforced the horizontal use only, of the Tee square. There are still some of these boards in existence, but they did not attract national acclaim. During the early years of the Institute, mining students were too few to use all the facilities available and there were no engineering courses.
Evening courses in mining, agriculture, building, commerce and housecraft were offered at this time. Of particular interest were courses designed over a three year basis for grocers, these courses enjoying the support of the Institute of Certificated Grocers who assisted in the conduct of the classes by supplying examples of commodities and facilitating students' visits to places of interest.
The subjects taken on this course were English, commercial arithmetic, commodities, book keeping, business methods and law. Separate courses for meat traders were organised in collaboration with the Meat Traders Association. There was also a retail trader's course, the syllabus of which included salesmanship, colour and design. The course fee was 5/- per session. In addition the Institute, some in conjunction with the W.E.A. offered non-vocational classes as follows: -
Modern Economic Problems.
Literature and Drama.
Choral Music.
Philosophy of Evolution.
Dramatic Art.
String Music Class.
Orchestral Class.
Physical Exercises and Hygiene for Men.
Physical Exercises and Hygiene for Women.
Photography.
Principles of Wireless.
Classes, however, were offered at Evening Institutes in the area at North and South Anston, Kiveton Park, Laughton, Harthill, Thurcroft, Maltby, Wickersley, Swallownest and Treeton.
In order to facilitate students travelling to and from the Institute, the West Riding Education Committee provided bus services to convey students to and from classes at the least possible inconvenience and expense. Automatic machines were installed in the Institute to supply 3d. and 1d. tickets. Students were required to provide themselves with tickets up to the value of their correct fare. The following single fares were prescribed: -
Treeton to Institute 9d.
Swallownest to Institute 6d.
Maltby to Institute 4d.
Wales to Institute 4d.
Kiveton Park to Institute 3d.
Laughton and Aston to Institute 1d.
The prospectus of the time states that 'fares for intermediate picking-up points will be given on application to the Principal' and that ‘Bent or worn coins must not be used in the machine'.
Before the coming of the Institute, the Workers' Education Association had begun classes in the basement of Dinnington Primary School. These classes moved to the Institute and attracted a strong following, making increasing use of the facilities in this fine building. Many students cultivated a taste for literature, music and drama as a result of these classes. However, the Institute was still very much under-used and was referred to by many as a 'white elephant'.
Some names come to mind of people, who gave long service to the Institute as members of the Board of Governors. There was Mr Richard Rush (the Chairman), Mr Alfred Tingle, Mr Joe Bailey, Mr William Cloke of Thurcroft and Mrs Alice Rastall.
There were 200 applicants for the job of caretaker at a wage of £2 per week. Mr William Collier was the first successful applicant, since that time there have been at least five caretakers.
In the late 1920's Junior Technical Schools came into vogue and in 1931 the West Riding Education Authority decided to organise such a school in the Institute, which had become known as the 'Tech'; it was to be under the same Principal.
These schools had a considerable element of vocation in their curricula; this was later despised by influential leaders in education and was largely discontinued. Today, we now have pressure from high places to re-introduce more vocational content into secondary education.
Dinnington Junior Technical School began with courses in commercial subjects, workshop engineering, housecraft and the usual humanities. There was a well-equipped gymnasium. The age of entry to the school was 13 plus and a place was won by competitive examination. The course was of two years duration and concluded with an internal certificate examination. The badge for the school blazer had a miner's lamp included in its design and the motto was ' Fiat Lux'.
The two organisations progressed amicably under the same roof. Mr Geoffrey Dix was Head of Department Mining and later combined this post with that of Head of Department at the Rotherham College of Technology. Some Technical Schoolteachers had periods of secondment to the Mining Department.
In 1935 there was serious unemployment and agricultural courses lapsed. Progress at the Institute was sporadic and slowed down. An active Students' Council however, organised social functions and was responsible for letting the premises to outside bodies. The gymnasium was used for dancing (no floor powder was allowed) and this amenity provided opportunities for young people to meet under good conditions. The gym. was also used for concerts and dramatic productions. Laboratory and workshop facilities were inadequate for the breadth of courses offered.
In 1936 extensions were begun with the building of the main hall and kitchens, followed in 1944 by much improved workshops behind the Institute. It was now possible to offer a comprehensive building course in the Junior Tech., this included carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing and plastering. Part-time Further Education classes also enjoyed the better facilities.
It was an important event when the young people of the village were invited to a social function in the new hall, 300 attended and during the evening Mrs Edwards Reece addressed the 'children' and told them about plans for forming youth clubs in the area. She made many promises, which have been slowly fulfilled. A youth club was formed in the Tech., which was run by volunteers. A young man had come from London to take part in the 'Bevin Boy' scheme at the colliery; this was an alternative to service in the armed forces during the war. He was an apprentice diamond cutter, his name was Percy Cohen and he became youth leader and developed the club until it almost dominated the Institute when in session. Eventually the club was transferred to the Junior School.
From 1941 until 1947 a squadron of the Air Training Corps, No. 1325 was in being at the Institute. The Principal and members of his staff were the officers. There was a brass band section which was directed by the late Mr Fred. Wilbourne. It proved to be a very worth while activity for its members. There was a close liaison with RAF Finningley.
During the war years the activities of the Institute were curtailed, as were the annual summer holidays organised in the Junior Tech. School. A course in domestic science for WAAFs and some workshop training for women was organised. The Air Raid Precaution organisation was assisted with maintenance of their vehicles.
When the coal mines were nationalised, trainees were sent to the Institute for 13 weeks initial training. One of the early arrivals was Fred. Trueman, he didn't stay long, but his innate ebullience was very obvious.
Mining trainees who showed promise were interviewed and those who were successful were offered NCB apprenticeships in mechanical and electrical engineering, this amounted to a valuable scholarship. From this time, part-time day courses increased a great deal. The West Riding Education Committee acquired Throapham Manor in 1948 and the Principal prepared a scheme for it to be a base for mining trainees. However, there was a change in policy and Throapham Manor became an annex to the Junior Technical School. For twelve years geography, music, French and engineering subjects were taught there. Unfortunately before the end of the lease it ceased to be used and soon became a target for vandals, it was a great pity because the interior of the Manor had some very attractive features.
There was an honours board in the main corridor of the Institute, the use of which was discontinued through lack of interest; Arthur Eames name was on it. He worked down Dinnington pit and then graduated at Sheffield University. During the Second World War he was Food Controller for Northeast England. Lawrence Lacey BA appeared on the board twice. He won a Violet Markham Essay Prize, went to Coleg Harlec and graduated at Sheffield University. He worked for the British Council in a number of countries; he became Deputy Director and retired to Madrid. It would however, require a very big honours board to take all the names of the old students of the Tech. who have acquitted themselves very creditably in many walks of life.
The farm buildings were erected about 1949 and once more agriculture became a subject in the school curriculum. Production has always been operated on a business footing, pig-rearing being a speciality.
The post-war years were a time of consolidation, steady progress and happy relationships. The Tech. was increasing its reputation as a focal point and a centre of interest academically and socially.
The formation of the Mining Society was an important event. Mr G. Dix, Mr E. Rist and Mr G. Bowen were largely responsible for this. Social functions, lectures, exhibitions and visits were features in its programme.
A choral group and a dramatic group existed for some years under a well-known teacher, Miss Pansy Moore; many public concerts were given. Later when the hall was built, Mr Lawrence Lacey produced several plays including Sheridan's 'School for Scandal' and 'Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure'. The Youth Service promoted competitive Drama Festivals annually. The Dinnington and District Operatic Society changed their base from the Lyric Theatre to the Tech. much to their advantage. They produced 'The Gondoliers' and a number of musicals including 'The Belle of New York', 'Katrinka', 'Rio Rita' and 'Tulip Time'.
The Junior Technical School took part in some very good athletic competitions in the South Yorkshire Technical Schools' Sports Association. There were also annual visits to the coast by a large number of pupils and staff. The Principal found great value in these holidays and joy for himself and his family; for the pupils of course, they were wonderful holidays. South Cliff, Bridlington was a very popular venue. Complete camping equipment was hired from the Army; this was erected by an advance party under the direction of Mr C.D. Graves. A few days later some eighty odd pupils and staff would follow in Foster's coaches or by rail and a fully self-sufficient holiday would begin.
Later there were more ambitious holidays on the continent. A memorable holiday was spent in a residential Technical School in Ostend (1959). The scale of vocational training at this school made our own look rather insignificant. Another happy holiday was spent in Dinard, France and yet another one at Bray in Ireland. The Old Students' dances were always a tremendous success, as much for the talking as the dancing.
This record would be incomplete without reference to Mrs Dronfield who was the cook-in-charge for many years. Her culinary skills were much appreciated for their excellence. County officials knew where to come for a good mid-day meal.
An Evening Institute Badminton Club was formed in which the Principal took a very active interest. The club is still in existence (certainly until the mid 1980's).
His Majesties Inspectors reported satisfactorily on the Chelmsford Mining and Technical Institute in 1950. One comment in the report was "It is recognised that the possibilities of development in the area served by the Institute are limited". The catchment area included Maltby, Kiveton, Thurcroft, Whiston, Treeton and Catcliffe. The development in these areas has been somewhat beyond expectations.
Increased teaching space became necessary and a detached building was erected by the southeast corner of the Institute. In the first instance this comprised a laboratory (later an engineering workshop), a drawing office and a common room with a small kitchen.
The administrative staff at this time comprised two ladies in a small office. The non-teaching help in the workshops consisted of old students who had 'stayed on'. Following the 1950 Inspectors' report, a recommendation that there should be a full time technician was implemented.
Around 1952, the Principal had a serious illness and was absent for more than a year. The Senior Master too, became ill and Mr J. Pryce was sent as supply Master-in-charge, his responsibility was for the Junior Technical School which had about 600 pupils on roll. Meanwhile Mr G. Dix was responsible for the Mining and Technical side of the Institute.
James Pryce was a Welshman, a rugby fanatic and a schoolmaster in the old tradition, in teaching and discipline. He re-organised the Junior Technical School and introduced General Certificate Examinations very successfully. This meant that courses were extended to three years for 'O' level and further for 'A' level exams. He was firmly established as Head of the Secondary School when Mr Ralph returned. There was then a Principal and a Headmaster with quite separate functions. Mr Stratford, the Senior Master, also returned for a brief period before his death, and then Mr C.D. Graves was appointed Senior Master.
When Mr Ralph retired in 1959 he had been Principal for more than 30 years. Under his leadership the Tech. progressed through fluctuating industrial and economic periods, including a war, to a threshold of unpredicted development. He was an individualist, but unobtrusive. His relationships with people and particularly with his staff were happy and kindly. He was one of nature's gentlemen.
The Rother Valley Institute of Further Education was established in 1959 with the appointment of Mr K.R. Roberts to be responsible for the Institute and Further Education Centres.
Mr J.W. Moreton was appointed as Headmaster of the new Comprehensive School circa 1962. Mr Roberts and Mr Moreton were jointly responsible for organising secondary education in the Dinnington area.
When the Junior Technical School and the Secondary Modern School were merged, 650 pupils came from the Tech. and 1000 came from the Modern School. Mr Pryce was appointed Deputy Head and Miss B. Tuke Head of Lower School, other members of the staffs were appointed to senior posts.
1963 saw the end of the Dinnington Junior Technical School. The school had provided a sound base for students who entered commerce, engineering and other professions. Many successful old students testify to this. It was also borne out by the fact that when the annual school leaving time came round, interviewing rooms had to be provided for representatives from firms in the Sheffield area who were eagerly seeking to employ the students who were available.
When the Junior Technical School left in 1964, the Institute urgently needed room to become available for the unprecedented expansion that was to take place, but the story of that can be told by others.
FURTHER NOTES ON THE CHELMSFORD MINING AND TECHNICAL INSITUTE
By Allan Harvey
The College façade is symmetrical in design and with the clock tower has considerable architectural character. Two things I particularly remember was the laying of the mosaic floors in the corridors - done by Italian workmen who obtained the final effect with abrasive pads used by hand. After all was finished, a mason came and sculptured a design at the apex of outside centerpiece, which is rarely noticed.
The first major extensions done in the 'eighties are pleasant and well planned; they cost in the region of £900,000 and would astound the founders if they were reincarnated. I have in mind such people as Mr Richard Rush (the first Chairman), Mr Alfred Tingle, Mrs Alice Rastall, Mr Joe Bailey and Mr William Cloke of Thurcroft
There were 200 applicants for the caretaker's post at a wage of £2 per week. Mr 'Bill' Collier was appointed and remained until his retirement. Bill wielded authority beyond his office of caretaker and at times it seemed questionable as whom to please most - him or the Principal! His older son, Roy was assistant caretaker for a time and he was remembered for supervising a College exam!
FURTHER NOTES ON THE HISTORY OF THE
MINING AND TECHNICAL INSTITUTE SINCE 1963
The Secondary Technical School moved to the new Comprehensive School buildings in 1964 and became part of the Dinnington Comprehensive School.
Mr D.W. Wheatley was appointed Principal following the retirement of Mr H. Ralph in 1964.
When Mr Wheatley left, another Principal was appointed whose name I have forgotten.
Mr J.D. Davis was appointed about 1966.
Mr B. Jowett was appointed about 1978, he retired in 1992.
A language laboratory was established in 1969.
Nursery nurse's courses started in about 1969.
Student numbers increased and many outside classrooms were built. The farm was developed and a large extension to the College costing upwards of £1M. was built around 1976.
Mr Killet was appointed the first Vice Principal about 1980.
Mining subjects ceased to be taught in about 1983.
About 1985 its name was changed again and it became the Rother Valley College of further Education.
By, A. Harvey.
Dinnington Technical College c 1961
Back Row L to R: Stephen Dobson, Geoffrey Baker, Stuart Wagstaff, Andrew Cornwall, Ian Boden, Raymond Brown, Clive Wootton, Trevor Roberts , Geoffrey Bagley, Brian Marriot. Middle Row L to R : Lynn Firth, Gillian Clarke, Pauline Shepherd, Maureen Whysall, Mary Banham, Andrea Cheek, Jill Hopewell, Margaret B, Jill Doncaster, Doreen Isherwood, Gay Newton, Gillian Bailey. Front Row L to R: Margaret Keegan, Susan Taylor, Christine Taylor, Susan Brown, Miss Walker( Mrs Jones) , Mary Sheard, Jeanette Woodcock, Judith Steer, Rowena Davies.