Annice Edmonds
Chandler School commenced with one school room and one teacher - upper and
lower divisions being taught in turn with oral and black board work - and
written work.
Primary school age being from six to fourteen, 7th class pupils being
assisted by correspondence leaflets. Entrance to High School examination
was originally called Qualifying Certificate, then Permit to Enrol.
"Play time" consisted of various games, but no organised sport until tennis
courts were built and we played a few matches against Hillgrove. Boys
played cricket against Jeogla.
Hand craft was sewing lessons for girls, wood work for boys. But how
different were facilities - or lack of them! Firstly, no electricity, so no
electric lights. When night meetings were held for P&T Assn, kerosene
lanterns were used, or later, portable pressure lamps.
Chandler School upon the hill, I loved my school and always will.
Heating was from one open fireplace, with a big back log, and kindling and
heavier wood carried in by the teacher and older boys. No electric jugs, or
urns for hot drinks, no telephones for quick and constant messages, all
communications were posted, or sent home with the pupils. No septic systems
or flush toilets, far away lavoratories. Last but not least, no school
buses. Most walking to school, having a creek to cross was interesting, and
nicely the water was warm enough to paddle across, or over a big log or by
a suspension bridge built by a "handy man" father.
Different times, but happy, healthy and rewarding days.