School Concerts in the 1960s

Under the leadership of Mrs Thompson,  the infant teacher, and supported by Mr Harding, the headteacher, music became an extremely important part of the school in the 1960s.

Mrs Thompson would often play the piano at break times and lunchtimes.  Numerous school concerts were held and the Rhythm Rascals accordion band was formed.  Mr Harding, who could not read music, developed a novel system of teaching the accordion using alphabetical note names. The  band became so popular that Mr Harding had to refuse some requests for its appearance.

By April 1967, according to a newspaper report, nearly 60 children at the school were learning to play musical instruments, with 40 playing recorders and melodicas and 18 playing the piano accordion.

Many musical concerts were held at the school throughout this decade.  Mrs Thompson, the infant teacher, produced every concert and played the piano for each one.