[Fairham Comprehensive]

Anyone remember a 'trainee' drama teacher - Mr Blagg? Eyes like Marty Feldman. I say trainee as ours was a class when an inspector came to assess his abilities. I'm pretty sure his future as a Teacher was determined that day. He must've been dreading it because we usually ignored every instruction he gave and just messed around. Don't know how the other forms behaved but he was inexperienced and Fairham wasn't a good place for someone to be cutting their teeth. One thing I am particularly proud of is that in realising the gravity of the situation, I got all the guys together before the class and suggested we follow his every command. He nearly fell over with disbelief when upon uttering his first instruction, we responded like our lives depended on it. The entire lesson followed suit and he had the humility once the inspector had excused himself of saying 'thanks lads'. I hope he had a successful career.

[Fairham Comprehensive]

Retired and living in the South of Italy listening to the build-up for the Reds game on Radio Nott'm. Thought I'd take a trip down memory lane and found this forum. Well done to all the contributors - it's been great reading all the posts. I attended Fairham from 67 - 73 (or thereabouts) and was in Penney House. I remember many of the teachers mentioned and can honestly say that I think most of them were pretty good and some outstanding. One in particular who I'd like to track down is Barry Whatling. He taught English and also ran the rugby team whilst I was in the 4th year. Brilliant bloke who I would like to thank in person for his input into my life. He's not the only one but, as has been mentioned, Martin or was it Martyn Byrne died suddenly. One humorous memory on the subject of discipline - Stan Bullard (another top bloke) - would have the offender bend over and draw a wicket using chalk on the victims bum (trousers on). He'd have a metre long stick and would draw a dot at the end as the cricket ball. As all who knew him will testify, he's a big chap with a strong arm, so all you could hope for was that he got you out first ball!!! Happy memories. As many have stated, it's very sad the school has closed and to see the state of the campus. It's nice to know there are many others who feel the same.