CRICKET
INTER-HOUSE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP
AQUATIC SPORTS
ROYAL NAVAL SEA SCOUTS
TAL HANDAK WOLF CUBS
GUIDE NOTES
BROWNIES
DRAKE HOUSE NOTES  

 NELSON HOUSE NOTES
STEPHENSON HOUSE NOTES
WHITE HOUSE NOTE8
   

We have made, In this Issue of the magazine, a number of
changes which we hope will make It more attractive In many ways. While the contents have in no way been reduced, we have made a reduction in the overall dimensions. This enables us to achieve an improvement In the lay-out In that there is now one column of print on each page instead of two, We have also Introduced some new headings for certain sections of the contents. These are line blocks based on designs for lino-cuts made by members of Form 4G during the year.
 

 New School activities include Scottish Dancing under Miss
Davies' guidance, the Hock Climbing Club under Mr. Lett, and Recorder playing taken by Mr. Walker.

We have welcomed a number of Admiralty lecturers, who included:—
Mr. Esmond Wright, on "The U.S.A."
Major Vivler, on "French Youth".
Mr. Andrews, on "The Discovery of Penicillin."

MODERN SCHOOL

We entered 23 candidates last summer in the G.C.E. Ordinary level and the returns showed that two children. Hazel Ansell and Tony Bull (the latter only 15) passed in nine subjects each. Six others passed in seven subjects and
among these the very high marks obtained by Bridget Flinton are worthy of special praise. (Incidentally, Bridget also won 3rd prize in the Coronation Essay Competition organised by the Malta Government). 16 of our candidates passed in 5 or more subjects and thus achieved something like what used to be known as Matric. standard.

At Advanced level we had three pupils with a full quota of 3 passes and here the work of Dorna Bayliss, who chalked up a distinction in Geography - the first time in our history and I suspect the first distinction ever won by any school
in Malta - must be mentioned. Dorna's results reached the
standard which normally wins a State University Scholarship.
These examination successes ranged over as many as 12 different subjects (including 3 Science subjects -a strain on our one and only laboratory.)

Throughout the School our curriculum has been strengthened in many directions, including P.T.. Music. Latin, Chemistry, as we have added specialist teachers to the staff. We can now offer as much as a good average Secondary School In England, and I think our achievement too compares very favourably. Perhaps it is the growing recognition of this fact by Service parents that is partly responsible for our continuing growth. There are many
other curriculum refinements I would like to make, but limitations of space; forbid at present.
 

The Inter Schools Athletics match saw us put up an excellent show -6 cups returning to Tal Handak. Our Athletic and Swimming Sports were the usual successful sporting and social events.

These are material achievements, and they were achieved
through the whole-hearted efforts of as good a school staff as any Headmaster could ever hope to have. I don't often have such an opportunity as this to thank them publicly for their co-operation and willing help and for all the hard work they have done to add lustre to the School's name. Here too, may I thank all members of the Service Community In Malta who help us In one way or another - the people in the Dockyard who make things for us. others who let us share their facilities for sport, Senior Officers for their support. We appreciate their help.

Material achievements are Important; Just as Important Is the fact that they have helped In the slow process of building up a school tradition -a tradition of hard work, hard and fair play, of honest endeavour without stopping to think about personal gain. Some of this Is conveyed by four words I gave to this term's new Secondary pupils and asked them to remember the four P's - perseverance, politeness, pride in our School! and - dare I say it - punctuality. Building up such a tradition is no easy task and it can never be anything but a slow process.
But It Is a process in which everyone in the School and connected with the School can and should play a part. I ask you all to play that, part to the bent of your ability and to make the year ahead of us one of still greater purpose and achievement.

Tal Handak Juniors
Designs    -   1st. Adrknne Borbon (4AJ).
                      2nd. Elizabeth Washboum (1J)
Models     -   1st. Bryan Collings (4AJ)
                   -   2nd. Ian Hotfklnson (3J).
Scrapbooks   - 1st. Valerie Carter (4BJ)
(91 entries)     - 2nd. Denise Aylett (1J)
Essay Competition 1st. Diana Baker (4AJ)


Vcrdala Juniors
Design  - 1st. Margaret Hayter (2AJ)
               - 2nd. Stuart Parkins (lb)
Models  -  1st. Pat Roper (4J)
                -  2nd. Richard Lane (2CJ)
Scrapbooks    - 1st. Penelope Miller (3AJ)
                         - 2nd. Jennifer Cobley (2AJ)
The prizes were distributed at the final assemblies of the summer term.

 

 Form 4J. 1st. Janet Shornbrot
                 2nd. Yvonne Toms
                 3rd. Kathleen Sherlock
                 Arithmetic Philip Allgood
                 English Andrea Smith

 

The adjudication was in the hands of Mr. Adrian Stanley who brilliantly put everyone in their place, to the great amusement of the audience, and gave us all tips on how to win next year.

Kay Clay.

The recorder group started nine months ago and has made
continued progress. During this time we unfortunately lost
the valuable help of Mr. Walker for a considerable period.

At Christmas we made our debut when we performed in the
Carol Concert programme and now once a week we precariously perch on the extreme edge of the platform in the hall accompanying  the School singing during assembly.

At the present time we have about ten promising players and we would welcome any other people who are interested. Our meetings are held in 4 Grammar form room every Thursday at 1.30 p.m. We hope to grow in number and popularity In the near future.

  Heather Marriott and Angela Gregson

                 THE ROCK CLIMBING CLUB

This club was born one afternoon about the middle of the
Autumn Term when eight figures. three carrying outsize coils of rope, very self-consciously threaded their way through the mass of buses in the School Yard and made off to the cliffs of Wied el Kebir. This is a miniature Cheddar Gorge along the rim of which one of the Cross-Country courses runs.

Within two minutes of the party's arrival, a rescue squad had to be organised to recover one of the members from a little ledge to which he had climbed with great speed, little technique, no rope, and no idea of how to climb down again!

After this not too hopeful start, the business of shinning up
rocks was learned remarkably quickly. By the end of November fairly frequent visits by small parties were being made to the rocks of Naxxar Ridge. Here there are climbs which have been listed and graded according to the standards of the Fell and Rock Club of England. No matter what the difficulty, however, these routes have been taken in order from East to West and been systematically climbed. In fact two new routes have been pioneered, which. If anything, arc more, difficult than the toughest which the official guide has yet produced.

The British people have a rich and unparalleled store of popular superstitions, which are added to through the centuries,

Plants and flowers, have, at all ages, been the source of varied
and interesting folklore. Parsley has always been regarded as
a bad omen. History records how a few donkeys laden with
parsley threw a Greek force into confusion. Many English
superstitions are connected with this plant, one of which Is prevalent in Devon, where it is believed that to transport parsley causes death within a year; in Hampshire, the people refuse to give any away, for fear of similar misfortune. Flowers usually signify death. In Sussex, to sleep in a room with the white thorn in It. during May, will cause death in the house. Also:—
"It you sweep the house with blossomed broom in May.
You're sure to sweep the head of the house away".
The people of Northampton believe that: —
"A bloom upon the apple tree when the apples are ripe.
Is a sure termination to somebody's life".

There is a curious superstition in Devon that it is unlucky to
plant a bed of lilies-of-the-valley, as the person doing so will
probably die In the course of the next twelve months; and In
some parts it Is believed that, if, in a row of beans, one should
chance to come upon white (instead of green) there will be a
death in the family within the year. The Welsh consider it very
lucky to cover the roofs of their houses with the leek, as It is
supposed to protect them from disease, and ensure happiness.
In Cornwall, the people frequently say the following for good
luck:—
"Even ash, I thee do pluck.
Hoping thus to meet good luck.
If no luck I get from thee.
I shall wish thee on the tree".
 

Formerly It was believed that if n farmer killed a robin his
cows would yield blood instead of milk. This superstition Is
also prevalent in Switzerland. It is on this account that the
robin enjoys immunity from the gun of the Alpine herdsman.

In Cornwall it is a popular belief that if rooks forsake an
estate, no heir will be found to succeed the owner. The harsh
croak of the raven over a house is regarded as an inauspicious
sound. Shakespeare, In "Othello", says:—
"O. It comes o'er my memory
As doth the raven o'er the nfected house
Boding to all"

A quaint old Cornish legend concerns the raven, and says that
King Arthur is still alive in the shape of a raven. Certain
superstitious people refuse to shoot these birds, in case they
might shoot King Arthur.
Another well known rhyme concerns crows:—
"One's unlucky;
Two's lucky;
Three is health;
Four is wealth:
Five Is sickness:
Six Is death." In Devonshire and Cornwall, when the cock crows more than
usually. It is said to be a sign that a stranger is coming. Also,
the cock's crowing is said to denote a change In the weather. An
old proverb states:
"If the cock crows on going to bed.
He's sure to rise with a watery head.

Perhaps the most common superstitions are those concerning
everyday articles; for example, pins. All children know the
rhyme:—
"See a pin and pick it up.
All the day you'll have good luck:
See a pin and lei it lie.
All the day you'll have to cry."

It is also considered bad luck when the soap slips out or one's hand. Rutlandshire has a superstition that if you wash your hands in the same water as another person you will quarrel with that person within the week.

There are a goon many odd bits of folk-lore connected with
salt. In the North it is considered unlucky to put t on
another's plate. The ill-luck Is averted by a second helping of salt. This is a very deep-rooted superstition; Leonardo da
Vinci, in his picture of the Last Supper, portrays Judas Iscariot overturning the salt -a dark foreshadowing of the betrayal of our Lord.
Napoleon Bonaparte believed in the common superstition of breaking glass. During one of his campaigns In Italy, he broke the glass over Josephine's portrait. He was so disturbed at this that he dispatched a messenger to ascertain her well-being - and did not rest till his return.

The hand and finger nails are connected with many a super
stition. Shakespeare, In "Macbeth", says:—
"By the pricking of my thumbs.
Something wicked this way comes,"

In Cornwall, while specks on nails are considered to foretell
presents, which may be received after the nail has grown so
that the speck may be cut off. It Is a common belief that it is
unlucky to cut nails on a Friday.

The preceding examples of popular superstitions are but a
minute fraction of the many Interesting or amusing superstitions
prevalent in the British Isles. Although we are not.
acquainted with "magic" and superstition to-day, there are a
few who will deliberately spill salt or open an umbrella in the house.

J. Bills
Form VG

While readers note that Carole's terse                                             Example of an English verse,                                                         Suggests familiarity                                                                             With subjects on a parity.                                                                    

With Latin, History & Art                                                                Mathematics of the smart.                                                                                                 It would come as no surprise to me                                                    Some verses French from her to see.

Science pure and of the household                                                   More'n the gist she finds she can hold.                                                                                              And of the subjects we can log                                                                                                  We mustn't fail to mention Geog.                                         

                                                   - Editor

The exhibits then came by. Some were so large that
they were on decorated lorries. The best exhibit of the year
was a globe showing all the countries in different coloured
flowers. It was made by the Women's Institute and they won a
refrigerator for their club-room. After many other gaily coloured models had passed us. some, on bicycles, others in cars. the time came for the battle. Luckily, It, was not such a spirited
affair as in other years, because no-one had much energy



 

 And then at Midnight blackbirds sing.
To please the squirrels and their King.
I was told to go to bed
But I stayed.
And watched, instead,

I have seen the chairs put out.
Oh! the parties they have there;
Fairy cakes and jellies too.
How I wish that I could share.

But I suppose if I were good,
Then one day I really would.
And when I come back to my glade

I will hear the rabbits say,
As they scuttle to their holes.
"Who's been in our glade today?"

Andrea Trafford Smith.
Form 4J,

An aeroplane goes over,
You hardly hear the noise.
The only thing you're scared of
Is the sound of your own voice.

The ordeal now is over.
You must stay throughout the prayer.
You wish that you were standing
Anywhere but there.

It's over now and finished.
You did feel such a fool
Standing on the platform
Before nearly all the school.

Judith Kelly.

              FAMOUS PEOPLE

Pope. Milton. Goldsmith. Wordsworth;
Poets all are these.
Bronte. Austen. Eliot. Hardy;
Their books we always seize.
Handel. Bach. Beethoven. Liszt;
We often play their songs.
Constable, Angelo, Van Gogh. Picasso;
'Round their pictures, continual throngs.
The Queen. Prince Charles and Princess Anne;
Our Royal Family dear.
Pluto. Theseus. Hannibal. Caesar:
Famous men no longer here.
Blarney, Ruoff, Colsell. Page.
Masters at our School.
Knowles, Colsell, Rippin and I
remember now - Miss Yule.
Anon. Form IVG.

a. Never point a rifle at anybody. loaded or unloaded....
b. Always keep the rifle pointing down the range while
you are reloading.
c. Never leave a rifle loaded even when you are taking
a rest. When you are resting always unload the rifle or put
on the safely catch.

Hamish Walker.
Form IVG

Ann and I were the cast of the Bighi Players Annual Pantomome "The Babes in the Wood."
Soon the news spread and many people tried to change their
seats, which they had booked in advance for other nights, so that they could come and see the show the night the Princess B was coming, but this was not allowed.
As the time drew closer to the evening's performance, the
other members of the cast, some at least. began to get "butterflies" In their stomachs.
Back stage we had Just finished dressing and making up when
the band was heard to play. "God save the King." We all knew
that In a few minutes the curtain would go up and the show
would commence. My sister returned from the presentation and heaved a sigh of relief, then said. "Thank goodness, that is over."   See photo.

 I then reminded her that the worst was to come.
From the dressing rooms the show sounded as if it were going
very well Then I caught a few words that led up to the cue for
my first entrance. I rushed through doors, along behind the
backcloth to find that I had about ten minutes to go. The tension was mounting for me. At last, my cue came and from my first lines I forgot completely who was in the audience and just acted as hard as I could.
The show ended with a thunderous applause. As we were
about to change. Chief Petty Officer Terry, our producer, dashed Into the dressing rooms and announced that we were to be presented to our distinguished guests. The whole cast was
astounded and. hardly knowing what we were doing, we lined
up In order of appearance to await the presentation.
The moment soon arrived, and I was standing next to my
sister near the head of the 'queue'. All at once H.R.H. Princess
Elizabeth was standing in front of me and I found myself shaking hands with her. Then she said to me. "Congratulations
on an excellent performance. Do you do much acting?" I said
it was the first show I had ever been In. The next thing I knew
was that the Princess had passed and I was shaking hands with
H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh. He said. "Congratulations. Do
you like acting?" I said that I found great pleasure in it. Then
he too was gone and as I watched them leave through the main
entrance. I began to realize what had really happened.
After this our show went on tour to Mtarfa, Luqa, H.M.S.
Falcon and H.M.S. Phoenicia,

John M. Wilson.
Form VG.
 

                  THE GHOST TRAIN

Suddenly I found myself in the dark as the ghost train which
I had boarded just a few seconds earlier crashed through a swing
door and went hurtling along the tracks at a terrific speed.
As the train careered along, a phantom figure rose ahead of me.
Just as I looked as if I was going to crash Into him the train
recklessly vet-red off to the right still tearing along at top
speed, the train came to where the track seemed to fall away
into a deep ravine. As I neared the ravine the train gathered
speed, then my stomach rose and fell as I went over a slight hill under the lines.

Cobwebs brushed my race and scared me as I hurtled at break-neck speed through the darkness. I swung to the left to face an even worst- horror. This was a ghostly figure which seemed to dance a jig In mid-air. This figure was very near to me when it mysteriously disappeared.

Still racing madly along the lines at a breath-taking speed. I
came to where a lion was bounding up and down In the centre of the lines roaring loudly. Suddenly It jumped at me. but the train swerved into a tunnel. Pitch blackness swallowed me and ghostly sirens shrilled in my ear as the train rattled on. In distance I could see what looked like a small speck of daylight.
This could not have been true however, for there was a terrifying scream and I crashed through another swing door into the brilliant daylight.

My heart returned to its normal place. What a terrifying
trip! Would I ever experience such a nightmare ride again?
Eagerly I dipped Into my pocket for another sixpence and passed it to the attendant. Grinding wheels began to turn, and with a crash I suddenly found myself in darkness once more.
           J Knight Form 3G

THE SEA-SIDE

Golden sands and racing waves,
Which make the sea-side gay.
Shell-strewn caves along the beach.
Where tiny children play.
Donkey; giving children rides.
Trot up and down the shore.
While on the busy promenade.
Ice creams are sold galore.

Wendy Gower.

 

                            AN EXCITING ADVENTURE

Once upon a time there was a little girl named Jill. She had a brother Tom. They lived In a place called Ittlebury. They had a little white cottage with red roses growing round the door. Near their house wan a wood and one day Jill's pet bird named Joey, Hew away, so she ran to tell Tom saying, "My bird has flown away!" Tom said, "I will help you find him." so off they went into the wood to look Tor him. But after a. little while. Jill said. "Listen. I think I can hear someone crying." and Tom replies, "Don't be silly there Is no-one here," but to his surprise they saw two little fairies crying. Jill said to them, "Why do you weep?" They replied together, "Our Fairy Queen said that if we do not get some red rose petals for our dresses, we will not have our ball when the moon is full." Tom was Listening to this and ran on horn? to get some from around his door. When he arrived home he said, "May I have some roses?" His mother asked him why he wanted them, so he said. "Jill and I want to make some scent." His mother agreed and off he went with the roses.

On his way to the wood he found Joey. He put the roses on the ground and took Joey home. When he came back to get the roses they had gone. So he went and told Jill what had happened, and the fairies said. "That s why we have no roses left. The gnomes have taken moon is full." Tom said, -Jill and I will find them and get the roses back." They were just, going when Jill said. "We don't know where to find them." The fairies told them and off they went.

When they found the tree, a little gnome said. "If you want the other gnomes, come with me. I know where they are," The two children went with the little gnome, but when they got there- the little gnome said something that sounded like "calpara." Jill said. -I wonder what he said that for."

As she saw that, out from nowhere came thousands of tiny gnomes. They grabbed the two children, and took them to their hide-out. When they got to the hide-out one gnome, who Jill though! was the chief one. said. "These children are too big to get in here," but as he said that, the children threw all the gnomes that were holding them on to the ground, and Tom held all the gnomes, while Jill took some cord out of his pocket and tied them up, threatening to harm them If they did not tell them where the roses were. So the gnomes showed them where the roses were. Tom untied them all and took the roses to the fairies. who were waiting for them to return. Then the fairies asked them to carry the roses to the Fairy Queen's Palace.

They look them and the Queen said, "What can I give you us a reward" Jill and Tom replied together, "We would like to come to the ball." and the Queen said they could.

So off they went home, and their mother said. "May I see the scent?" and Tom told her why they had wanted the roses and about their reward.

She agreed with their going to the ball so the children waited anxiously for the full moon to come. At last It came and Jill and Tom had a wonderful night.

             A WALK IN APRIL

One warm April morning when I was sitting In our garden reading a book about wild flowers I suddenly came across a picture of a flower I had never seen before.

As I am very interested in flowers I decided to see if I could find this particular one. I went into the house first, to put on my walking .shoes und then I started out.

The country round my home was very beautiful, and had an abundance of wild flowers. I picked some flowers for mummy, and as I did so I kept my eyes alert to see if I could find the flower for which I was searching. I went up to a field I know had many wild flowers and to my surprise there was a chestnut mare and by her side was the sweetest little foal with a little white star in the middle of Its forehead. I went up to stroke it and to my delight it seemed quite fearless. How I wished I had some titbits for It ! But by now time was getting on and I realised I had better go if I wanted to look for my special flower. So I said "Goodbye" to it and skipped away.

I sang as I went along and the birds sang with me as they flew above me. I looked about me all the time but I could not find this wild flower at all. The flowers looked brightly up at me sometimes, with little drops of rain in their petals which looked like little pieces of shining silver. Everything looked new! The fields I went through often had baby lambs with their fluffy white coats but I kept at a distance In case the mother would not like me to touch her lambs. The trees under which I walked were growing a new set of leaves Which were a beautiful green. The walk was so delightful that 1 was sorry when it was quite time to go home. And although I did not have the wild flower I hoped to get. it was by far my most enjoyable walk.

Barbara Humphrey. Form 4J.

I heard the dogs barking,
The clucks quack by the stream.
And the hens clucking
In my dream.

I saw the darkness vanish.
And dawn wake by the stream:
The dark shadows break                                                                   In my dream.

Juliet Sayer.

Form 4J.
 

Janet Shombrot.

Form 4J.

    

THE RUNAWAY BROOK

Jumping and dancing
Leaping and prancing
Rippling and flashing
Sparkling and splashing
In a cranny, out a nook
Came the swift, audacious brook.

Then came night
Of misty gloom
And on the clouds the ghostly moon
Rose and fell
Like a ship, upon the sea.
Frail but Sighting, frail but free.

The thunder clashed
And jagged rents fled oe'r the sky.
While the rain, cold and bitter
Flooded the earth and swelled the river.
And on. and on. and on it sped
On to the raging sea It fled.

While the Brook floundered and whirled
Thundered and swirled.
Fell and flashed,
Leaped and lashed.
Raged and rushed.
Gurgled and gushed.
Fleeing down to the deep, blue sea.

Hardre Fenn
Form 1AJ
 

                                    SPORTS DAY

1953 being Coronation Year it was decided to make the Athletic Sports a very special function, and the first move in this
direction was to obtain the loan of the green and wide open
spaces of Ta'Kali. Here we had all the room we needed, and a
day's wonderful weather too. Two tracks were laid out and
Senior and Junior events took place on them (simultaneously).
Meanwhile three very hard working donkeys spent the afternoon giving rides, and swings and seesaws were also well patronised.
Thanks to many generous contributions it was possible to provide all children with n ration of free refreshments, and a very happy day was spent by all. but It was a very tired working party which eventually loaded the last piece of gear on the lorry that evening.

The sports themselves produced some wonderful performances. McVey and Stubbs proved outstanding runners, and Cave excelled himself in field events. Suzanne Buick was supreme among the girl runners. With three of these athletes In their team Nelson were confidently expected to win the House championship, and despite a good challenge by Stephenson there was never very much doubt that they would succeed.

Despite the difficulty of reaching Ta'Kali there appeared to
be a record attendance of parents and friends of the School.
These included the Flag Officer Malta and Mrs. Salter. who
concluded a successful day by presenting cups and medals to the winners.

ATHLETICS

5th INTER-SCHOOL SPORTS, 1953.

Eight new records were established in this year's meeting.

1. The Mile Open  Schranz. 5.0 minutes      St Edwards
2. 220-yds. (14-15 yrs.) M, Gauci. 25.2 secs. St Edwards
3. 220-yds. (15+)Cremona).  26.3 sees.          St Edwards
4. 880-yds. (16-17 yrs.) Bonello. 2 mins. 23 secs. St Aloysius
5 Half Mile Relay. 1 min. 51.4 secs.              St Aloysius
6. One Mile Relay. 4 mins. 12.5 sees            St Edwards
7. 220 yards. Stubbs. 26.3 secs.                      R.N.S.
8. Senior Discus. Cave. .                                 R.N.S.
Apart from the two records which we broke, we also had

100 yds. Stubbs  1st  11.4 secs                                                      High Jump Wilson 1st 4ft 8ins                                                 Discus (J)Stubbs108ft                                                                                                                  
Half-Mile M Mallon 1st, 2 mins. 23.5 sees.

These boys are well deserving of high praise, but so also are the others who took second, third and even last place, for the whole team did its utmost, to show what the School really could do.
The final result found us in third place in the Senior competition with the old rivals St. Aloysius and St. Edwards in 1st and 2nd respectively. In the Junior competition we were pipped by l point for first place by St. Aloysius,
 

RUGBY FOOTBALL
There has been a fine response to the introduction of Rugger this year. Boys o£ all ages havc shown an enthusiasm and in some cases a standard
of play which is most encouraging.

The games played, so far. have been between teams picked by Prothcro. Plater, Livingstone and Wilson. The standard of play has not been exceptional owing to the fact of there being so many boys who arc just stared to learn to play the game.
However, like the Soccer player's opinion of all rugger men.
what they lack in ability. these beginners certainly make up for in enthusiasm.

On Boxing Day, the boys, very ably assisted by two parents,
Mr. Burden and Mr. Robinson, beat, by 13 points to nil, another team of boys, evidently not very ably assisted by six masters! It was a most enjoyable game -for the boys. Three of the masters are still trying to decide whether they are suffering from fractures or mere dislocation of bones. More would probably be doing the same thing, had not the referee (Cdr. Alcock ) kept the game going with us little bloodshed as possible.
 

NETBALL

Netball has been played throughout the School this season.
There is now a fairly good attendance at House practices. Organisation of these is still made difficult, by girls who volunteer to play and then do not trouble to attend.

On the whole the standard of play has improved and most
players have now learned not to run with the ball. Dodging
still needs practice and players should realise the importance
of correct spacing on the court.
Two sets of House matches are arranged for the last few weeks
of term. There will be a Junior Competition between teams
drawn from 1st and 2nd forms and a Senior Competition for
the 3rd form and above.

CRICKET

Cricket aroused very little enthusiasm in the School this year.
A few stalwarts from each House tried to complete an Inter-
House competition. However as teams very often had to be
made up from anyone who happened to be on the field, irrespective of House, no result can be recorded. In the games that were played, no one was outstandingly good. Fielding was very weak. Bowling was usually erratic although an occasional fast ball from Wilson livened up proceedings. Batsmen as a rule concentrated so much on staying In. that they forgot to score runs.

AQUATIC SPORTS
The finals of the aquatic sports of R.N. School Tal
Handak were held Fleet Bathing Centre. A large gathering of parents & friends saw a very good display
of swimming and diving. Two afternoons had already been
spent in heats, when all children who succeeded in swimming a given distance In a time appropriate to their age won a point for their house. The Contest for house points was unusuallv close and the champion house was In doubt up to the last relay race.

1. Breaststroke Girls 13 - 14 Time: 26 secs.
1. M. Brill-Edwards (D) 2. J. Miller (D) 3, J. Neve (S)
2. Freestylc Boys under 10. Time: 24.8 secs.
1 G Turpin (W ) 2, P. Jones (S) 3. I. Brill-Edwards (N)
3. Breaststrokc Girls I0 - 111/2 Time: 32.4
1. A. Dawe (W) 2. J. Malpas (D) 3. A. Brockman (W)
4. Freestyle Girls under- 10  Time. 38.2 secs.
1. D. Cartwright (D) 2. E. Smith (N) 3, L. Maggs (W)
5. Diving Boy under 14.
1. D. Campbell (D) 2. M. Elsam (S) 3. D. Cooper (W)
6. Freestyle Girls 13 - 141/2 Time. 49.6 secs.
1. P. Streets (D) 2, R. Baylee (N) 3. T Dudman (W)
7. Breaststrokc Boys over 141/2 Time: 48 secs,
1. A. Plater 18) 2. R. Alien (D) 3. G. Cave (N)
8. Freestyle Boys 13 - 141/2 Time: 41.5 secs,
1. G Stubbs (S) 2. I. Kerr (D) 3 C. Turpin (W)
9. Backstroke Girls over 141/2 Time: 26.2 sees.
1. S. Deacon (W) 2. H. Marriott (W) 3. J. Walker (S)
10. Freestyle Girls 10 - 111/2 Time: 29.6 secs.
1. J. Malpas (D) 2. H. Maggs (W) 3. G. Gilbert (D)
11. Breaststroke Boys 10 - 111/2 Time: 23.6 secs.
1. C. Brown (S) 2. M, Lane (D) 3. D. Campbell (D)
12. Diving Girls under 14.
1. C. Buick (S) 2. J. Malpas (D) 3. J. Roe (W)
13. Freestyle Boys over 141/2 Time 37.4 sees.
1. J. Wilson (N) 2. A. Plater (S) 3. G. Cavc (N)

 

Champion Girl: Shirley Deacon <W)
Champion Boy: Graham Stubbs (N)
Champion Diver: Anthony Overton (S) and Carole Buick (S)
[equal].
Champion House 1. Drake 2. Nelson


 

ROYAL NAVAL SEA SCOUTS 

The past year has been a very busy and successful one for
the troop. Taking up at the end of our last magazine report
we find the first incident worthy of mention, our Inspection by
Lt.-Cdr. Young for Admiralty Recognition. In this we were
successful and gained the signal honour of being the first group outside U.K to gain this distinction. Shortly after this the
troop was inspected by Mr. Dahl the Overseas Commissioner.

Probably the most outstanding event of the year was on June
24th when the Sea Scouts' Guardship, T/S. Egmont, was inaugurated by Admiral the Earl Mountbatten of Burma. World Commodore for Sea Scouts. A commemorative plaque and the ship's bell were unveiled by Lady Mountbatten. Shortly afterwards the troop was entertained to films and refreshments at Admiralty House.

In the field of competition the troop was again successful in
carrying off the Bates Cup and Mallia Shield for the Scoutcraft
and Camping Competitions. The Camping Competition was
carried out in the foulest weather imaginable and every credit
is due to the patrol who entered and saw it through successfully.

Summer saw all Scouting activities at their zenith.
The new Sea Scout Commissioner. Cdr. E. A. Glbbs. R.N.. very
kindly placed at. the disposal of Sea Scouts, a site of approximately 40 acres within the bastions of Ricasoli. The troop soon took advantage of this and a jolly good week was enjoyed by all. The programme was packed with expeditions, hikes, swimming, exploration and wide games to say nothing of the rousing Camp Fire that ended It all- Many scouts still chuckle over the Incident of "ghosts and goats".

 
Brown Owl

DRAKE HOUSE NOTES

Since the last copy of the Magazine appeared Drake have been
unfortunate in losing most of their outstanding performers:
Bull, the House Captain during the Spring and Summer Terms,
our star batsman, sprinter and holder of School Football colours: McVey. opening bat. cross-country star, with School football and athletic colours; Flynn our goal-keeper and swimmer: Allen, swimmer and cross-country runner; Sutherland, footballer and cricketer: Valerie Attrlll, holder of school hockey colours.

However we welcome several newcomers: Bendell, our new
centre-forward; Wellington. our new goal-keeper, and MacKenzie who plays Rugby.

Cricket.

On the whole Drake had quite a successful cricket season.
coming second to Stephenson. Our outstanding players were
Bull. McVey. Miller and Brown. Others who played well are
Allen. H. and Allen. J.

Swimming.

Drake were fortunate in possessing a number of promising
young swimmers and divers with the result that we won the
inter-house competition by a narrow margin

In the Senior events our outstanding swimmer was Robert 
Allen, who was second in the breast, stroke and 3rd in the Diving. In the Junior events David Campbell won the diving.

Others who did well were Miller, Flynn and Margaret Brill-
Edwards

Athletics.

On the whole little enthusiasm was shown by the House in this field. The 3-milcs was run on a separate day. McVey coming 1st and Humble 5th.

On Sports Day as Bull was unable to run. most of the burden fell on McVey. and although he won the 100, 220. 440 and 880 yds. events, Drake was left at the bottom of the board. In the Tug o' War we came third after beating White by 2-1. each pull lasting 3 minutes.
 

Tennis.

The tennis tournament at the end of the summer proved a
comparative success for Drake House, when we managed to
gain second place. The team consisted of Christine Owen with Frances Buley and Sallie Vine with Joy Bollars.

Hockey.

In the hockey, as in all the girls' sports, we have not been as
successful as could be wished. This is mainly due. as in the
netball to lack of enthusiasm at practices on Saturday mornings.
Much more effort and keeness from all the girls, will have to
be shown if we do not wish to be completely defeated this year.
Our team has been greatly weakened since the summer holidays by the loss of Dorna Bayliss. House Captain., Valerie Attrill, School player and Margaret Brill-Edwards, who was a very promising back. Bowever. I am sure that with our remaining players and promising players such as Jane Skinner. Sallie Vine, Sandra Rich and Joan Hellon. and with a little more enthusiasm from the rest of the girls, we could do a great deal better.
than formerly.
Work

Last year we failed to gain the coveted top prize for work,
only gaining second place, but If we keep up the good standard that we have so far set ourselves In the Christmas term by coming first I am convinced that we stand a very good chance of winning the work shield. In the General Certificate of Education 'Advanced Level)
Examination last June. Dorna Bayliss brought great credit
to the House by gaining a Distinction In Geography, and passes In her other two subjects. This is the first Distinction in the School In any subject at this level.

At the Ordinary Level two of our members. Hazel Ansel and Tony Bull succeeded In obtaining the highest number of passes -9 subjects each, and Frances Buley gained 7, Christine Owen 6 and David McVey 4. Let us hope that we can do as well or even better this year.
Our two Captains this year are Brian Humble and Hazel
Ansel.
B.H.

     NELSON HOUSE NOTES

Athletics.

Our achievement last year in carrying off the Athletics trophy
led us to hope that we might perhaps manage a "double".
Enthusiasm In the House was very evident, and for many weeks before Sports Day. Individuals were hard at their training. Our hopes of victory wore well founded. We won.

Cricket.

After our success last year In winning the Cricket Shield we
were looking forward with keen Interest and anticipation to the
commencement of the Cricket season this year. Although very
conscious of the loss of Fewtrell, we were fairly confident that
we could secure a reasonably good position In the House league.
Events, however, proved us very far "off the mark". A friendly
match against Drake, in which we were defeated, dashed our
hopes slightly, but gave us determination to play harder, and
when In our first Championship match we defeated White by
two runs, we thought Lady Fortune was again smiling after all.
But unfortunately, our next three matches resulted in heavy
defeats and we finished a very woeful last.

Swimming.
After last year's crushing defeat In the Swimming Gala, our
hopes this year were not particularly high. However, after a
very closely fought finish we gained second place, only 6 points behind the winners. Drake. Special mention must be made of J. Wilson who came first in the open Freestyle, a very noble performance, against strong opposition. Congratulations to our Relay Teams who did extremely well to come first.

Football.

Due to the demands made by the School soccer team for
players, we have been unable to play off any House matches as
yet. Several players from Nelson have turned out regularly for
the School team, among them being, Alder, Cave and J. Wilson.
With these three "Old Campaigners" we have the backbone of a
good team, but we will have to play very hard to retain the
Shield. I have been watching with some misgivings the Inflow
of new talent to the other Houses - I'm afraid all ours are going outwards.

Tennis.
The Inter-House Tennis Tournament was held at the Marsa in July under a blazing sun. The. House was represented by Bridget Plinton and Suzanne Buick. Pat Capon and Ann Henderson. In this we gained third place, so there is ample room to Improve our play and our position this coming Summer.

Hockey.

The Hockey Shield is still hanging up in our room. It has been in our possession for a number of years now. so keep on practising in order that it may remain there. Make that little extra effort, it is so worthwhile.

Work 1952-53

After a very humble start we did at the very end of the summer term eventually gain more points for work than any other House.
And so. for the first time in many years, the Work Trophy has at last found Its way back to our "key board"

Again at the end of 1953 we have made but a humble start.
We came first last year, with an effort we can be first this coming year.

Looking back on last, year we can say "Nelson we are proud of you", and we are very glad to exhibit the "Cock" over our doorway. Let us see if we can keep it there. If everyone makes just a little extra effort we should be able to do It
Ann Henderson
Garry Cave
House Captains

 

Before giving a .summary of activities the House would like
to express its regret at the absence of Mr. Walker. He is at the
moment recovering from a serious operation. We wish him a
speedy recovery and hope that he will soon be amongst us
again.
We welcome heartily Inst. Lt. Keyworth. a new member of
the Staff and of Stephenson House - we hope he will enjoy his
stay with us.

In the past year's activities we have done moderately well both
at work and play. Occasionally we have been top House more
often second or third, and once bottom.

Athletics.

The Athletic sports this year were held at, Ta Kali and the
afternoon's Events were thoroughly enjoyed by all. competitors
and spectators alike. Nelson House drew well ahead in the
afternoon, but we had an exciting tussle with White House for
second place, and were successful in just beating them.

We did not have many outstanding athletes in the events, and
we would like to congratulate our late House Captain, A.Over-
ton, for obtaining two firsts and a second in field events, also
Page and Plater, who were second and third to him In throwing
the javelin. However, we tried hard and were successful in winning all but one of the relay races  - well done the relay teams! Especially the girls who ran very well indeed,

Swimming.
Not being a House of "water rats" the House Master had to
deliver a rousing pep talk before he managed to cajole 'and
even bullying many of us into entering the numerous events.
Eventually we were well represented, and although last in the
House competition this was no disgrace as all the Houses were
closely matched and only a few points separated first and last.
Now Stephenson. with a little more enthusiasm we can win
this competition this year!

Cricket.

After being runners-up In the previous competition we were
all out to win in 1953. In this we were fortunate in having two
good new bowlers. Plater and Noble, to help Nettlefold. Together they made havoc with the other Houses' batting, and
being well supported by the rest of the team, we won the competition.

Congratulations to those five or six members of the House who
played regularly for the School XI.


 

 Work.

We were only third in the Christmas half-term positions. We
improved throughout the remaining half of the Christmas term and finished second. Work hard everybody - you can all win House points by improving your class position!

 Cricket

The cricket season, for White House, was not successful. The
teams we played beat us by narrow margins, and it seems that
If more practice is given to the bowling we should do much belter
In 1954. Another reason for our failure was that fielding was
not, of a high standard, and much can be done to Improve it.
However, we now have several additions to our ranks which were last, term depleted by the loss of Mallon, Cooper and Slater, all of whom greatly contributed to the better cricket in the '53 season.

One feature of the team was the proportion of smaller boys
who played quite regularly. They did their best to attain a
high standard of play, and I am sure, have been applauded for
their efforts to 'shine' against some strong opposition.

Football
We have won our first two matches in the House Competition
and are hoping lo carry off the shield.

Again, several small boys have been included In the teams,
but their lack of speed has hindered them in encounters with
much faster defences.

Once again wi1 hope that all newcomers will  help to make
this season highly enjoyable, especially for White!

Finally let's hope that the weather, for the rest of the season,
 will be favourable so that we can play regularly and not at infrequent intervals!

Tennis
Our tennis tournament was held at the Marsa Courts last
summer under a beautiful blue sky and blazing sun. Four girls played for each House, our representatives being Mary Hopkins, Jill Vine. Shirley Deacon and Teresa Rees. Needless to say, White House won by quite a large number of games, but everyone taking part, thoroughly enjoyed It. We are very grateful to Mrs. Gully, Miss Clark and Mrs. Hill for arranging the tournament nd for all the hard work they put In to make it so successful.

Hockey
At last it seems that our luck has changed In hockey for until very recently we either lost to our opposing House or else just managed to draw with them, but In the first House match of 1954 we beat. Drake 6-0. The team we have now Is extremely keen, and although we are sorry to say goodbye to our centre half, Margaret McVey, if we show the same spirit in our coming games White House has every chance of a very good position in hockey this season.

Come on White House, let's win that hockey shield and be top House for netball. tennis and hockey!

Work
White House did not, do very well in this section of the House competition surely we must have one genius at least amongst the ranks!

It seems that we must try much harder in future if we are to
 show the other Houses that we too can produce outstanding results if called upon to do so.

General Notes
We have had only one change In the House since the last magazine was published. Miss Leppard has departed to marry a naval officer. We wish her every happiness, and are glad that she has not altogether forsaken the Navy. In her place we have a new master - Mr. Bletcher, to whom we extend a sincere and hearty welcome.

We say goodbye to Mallon, Cooper and Slater, who were all
staunch White supporters. To Slater we send our bestwishes
for a speedy recovery and hope that he will soon be discharged from the English hospital where he is undergoing treatment for a serious Illness.

As a final word I can only say try to improve on last year's
performances and rescue the Cock from Nelson's clutches.

Peter Budd,  Shirley Deacon.

House Captains

 

The House system is now firmly established throughout the
 School and the following House Captains and Vice Captains elected early In the Autumn Term:—

DRAKE:
Captain - David Brownridge - IVA - Marion Collingridge - IVB. Vice Captain - David Purkiss  IVA Gillian Newton IVA  NELSON:
Captain Jeremy Mathers - IVA Maureen Woodward - IVA   
Vice Captain   Peter Tucker -IVB   Margaret Benson -IVC       STEPHENSON:
Captain  Michael Daniels - IVB  Ann Dewar - IVA
Vice Captain Michael Jackson - IVB Linda Allen - IVA WHITE:
Captain Rodney Webster - IVB Veronica Brown - IVC
Vice Captain Norman Bennett - IVA Marianne Tottman -IVA

Similar thoughts come to mind about Rear-Admiral Salter's visit on January 25th when he came to make his annual inspection as Flag Officer, Malta.
We have seen Instructor Captain Baxter (Fleet Instructor Officer) more frequently and were reluctant to say goodbye to him. At the same time, we are happy to welcome his relief. Instructor Captain Turvey.
We regret that we are unable to reproduce the many artists' impressions of these visits, which emanated from the Infant classes.
Open Day was held on November 13th, when parents took the places of their children for the afternoon. The large number of parents who attended cheered us immensely. We are pleased to see as many as possible on Open Day when all have the opportunity of seeing for themselves what goes on here.
Another encouraging sight during the Autumn Term occurred during the two days of the Christmas Concert when the Hall was very well filled with very understanding and appreciative audiences. We are not quite "old troupers" yet but will borrow one of their stock phrases - "We hope you enjoyed the show as much as we enjoyed. putting it on".
The shield for Best House in work, sport and general smartness during the Autumn Term was won by Nelson House.

INFANT DEPARTMENT
More than a hundred children passed into the Junior Department and many new children joined as at the beginning of the School year. They all seemed to like travelling to and fro by bus and soon settled into their classrooms in a building which no longer resembles the prison that it once was.
 

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Contrary to previous custom at Verdala, it was decided this
year to combine the Infants and Juniors into one concert, giving two performances for parents and friends and one for the School. The only difficulty which this presented was that of traffic control behind the scenes. Fortunately the weather
stayed line so the the crowds of "actors" could move between classrooms and stage without trouble and there were no traffic incidents.
The programme consisted of a fine mixture of varied items varied in actors and content - so that, the two audiences gave every appearance of having enjoyed themselves. We are particularly happy that this is so since all of the concert material was developed from either class work during the term or from the Activities Sessions. Only the final rehearsals required extra time way from more academic work. In other words it was rather In the nature of an extra Open Day when what we might describe as the lighter side of School work was on show.

INFANT AMBITIONS

The following items were produced by our Infants under the heading of "When I Grow Up". The only editing that has been done Is the correction of spelling mistakes in the big words.
WHEN I GROW UP:—
I am going to be in the Air Force and I am going to go on a
I plane to different countries Wales. America. Africa. Gibraltar and the things they've got. I will see the mountains when I go over them in my plane and see the sea and ships and the snakes in Africa. 
Julian Brownridge

Peter Thomas

I am going to be a fireman and when a house is on fire I will
put off the fire with the hose pipes and get people out of their
houses into their friend's houses and get cool by having a cup
of cold milk.

Andrew Hudson.

I am going to be a lady and work hard. I am going to wash
up the clothes make the beds sweep the floor. I am going to
have two children a boy and a girl.

Heather Briard.

I am going to be a scout and save peoples' lives and try to
capture crooks.
David Harding.

I would like to be an engineer of a big ship because I like to see
all the works. 

Paul Tanton.

After breakfast we went ashore in the launch and caught a
taxi for Athens. When one approaches Athens the first time
one sees is the Parthenon rising up on a hill called the Acropolis. Of course we told the taxi-driver to drive us to it. The Parthenon, the temple of Athens, is over 2.000 years old and is now in ruins. While we were there I took some snaps with my camera.

After we had looked round we went for lunch at the British
Club and then went to the Palace to see the Royal Guard. The
soldiers wear a kilt called a "fustinella" On ordinary days they
wear khaki fustinellas but on Sundays they wear white ones
and decorated waistcoats and a fez with a tassel. Afterwards
we had some delicious ice-cream in a little cafe. As It rained
most of the afternoon we caught a taxi to Piraeus and went on
board Blue Ranger. At about ten o'clock that evening we
sailed. My holiday in Greece was over.

Michael Hodges - 3AJ

THE POTTER

In a little -dark cave sits the potter
Working away at his wheel
Shaping with skilful lingers
How sticky the wet clay must feel!

There's a smile on the face of the potter.
As he fashions his vases and urns,
Perhaps he Is thinking of flowers
As the humming wheel merrily turns.

How nice for the jolly old potter.
To look at, the end of the day
And see all the things he's fashioned
Set out In gorgeous array.

J. Cobley - 4AJ

 
JENNIFER AND THE FAIRIES

Jennifer had always believed In fairies, for as she was born
on Midsummer's Eve, fairies had always given her one wish. It
was rather a sad time for Jennifer and her mother for her
father was away.

The next night was Midsummer's Eve and as the clock struck
twelve there was a pattering on the window pane. Jennifer
quickly opened the window and the fairies flew in.

"Tonight I'll wish for " began Jennifer but the faries
cried. "Not here! Not here! In the garden, the Fairy Queen is
there."
When they reached the garden there was the Queen who
spoke In a soft voice to Jennifer: "So. you have come my child.
Tell me. for what, do you wish?"

"Oh! I wish my father was home" cried Jennifer. "So be It."
replied the Queen. Then she vanished and Jennifer found
herself in bed and soon she was fast asleep. When she awoke
the first thing she saw was her father's face.

Her wish had come true.
Sophie Marshall - 3AJ

MY GARDEN

I have a little garden
Which Is my very own.
And everything that s in it
Is just what I have sown.
There are daffodils and violets
And other pretty flowers.
And I always tend my garden
Right after my school hours.

Marianne Tottman - 4AJ

Printed in the Office of the Commander-in-Chief Mediterranean

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PRIZEG1VING

An informal prize-giving was held at Verdala School on 23rd
July - the first in the postwar history of the School. Mrs.
Bellamy presented the prizes to the successful children who
were as follows:—
 

Class 4.	1st.	Peter Shepheard
	2nd	Hardre Fenn
Class 3A	1st	Jeremy Mathers
	Progress	David Larner. Penelope Miller
Class 3B	1st	Barbara Greenslade
	Progress	Anthony Willoughby. John Maynard
Class 3C		Ann Kerry. David Gower and Janet Shepherd
Class 2A	1st	Jennifer Coblcy
	2nd	Sophie Marshall
	3rd	John Merriman
Class 2B	1st	Marjorie Roe. Sandra Trundle
	Effort	Wendy Shilson
Class 2R	1st	Anne Reeman
	Progress	Janet Taylor. Richard Ogilvie
Class 2C	1st	William Messenbird
	2nd	Paula Simpson
	3rd	Ronald Milton
Class 1A	1st	Michael Hodges
	2nd	Brian Keech
	3rd	Cynthia Brown
Class 1B	1st	Nadine Northam
	2nd	Melvyn Philps
	3rd	Barbara Iles
Class 1C	1st	Brenda Martin
	2nd	Stephen Johnson
	3rd	Jacqueline Hockliffe
Class 1D	Progress	Verina James. Roy Banks

 In a short speech, the Headmaster congratulated those children who had won prizes. The prize-giving also marked the end of Mr, Benton's three year stay in charge of the Verdala Juniors and the Headmaster thanked him on behalf of everybody for his work for the School. Mr. Benton was presented with a model of a Gozo boat as a momento of his stay at. Verdala School.

The 400 Juniors present, then joined in three hearty
cheers to speed Mr. Benton on his way.