Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott – The Schools of Stanford Rivers

The Schools of Stanford Rivers

In 1818 there were two day schools in the Parish with 50 pupils. As late as 1846 these schools were kept by "Dames" - The Rector however, exercised some supervision over one of these and gave financial help to the other. It appears that one of these schools was housed in a portion of the Old Ongar Union (now Piggott Bros. factory) but it has not been possible for me to trace where the other was situated.

In 1850 a National School was built on the road (later known as School Road) about half way between Little End and Toot Hill. The Lord of the Manor (Sir Charles C. Smith Bart.) gave the site and £200, the Board of Education £117, the National Society £20, and other subscriptions were raised. The Rector and the Churchwardens were appointed Trustees.

In 1858-9 there were 30 boys and 37 girls enrolled - but much truancy was reported. The school received Parliamentary grants for the training of Pupil Teachers and for the purchase of equipment etc. In 1859 the grant was £164 but an Inspector found that the standard of education was low.

Mr and Mrs Budden were the teachers in 1863.

In 1870 the register showed 117 children enrolled.

In 1878 it appears that Samuel G. Randle was the Master and Mrs Mary Randle, the Mistress.

By the Education Act of 1902, the school passed under the administration of the Essex Education Committee, Ongar District.

It was re-organised in 1936 for the education of mixed juniors and infants, the seniors being transferred to the new school at Chipping Ongar.

In May 1952 there were two teachers and 53 pupils. (In 1950 it was granted Aided Status). As will be seen from the extracts from the School Minute Books, the School was finally closed in 1965 and the building demolished in 1969. (See "Gipsy Encampment"). The children now go to Ongar by coach.

Extracts from School Records and Minute Books

1863 — Teachers - Mr and Mrs Budden.

1886 — Average attendance 100 children. Master Mr R. Southern, Mistress Mrs Jane Newmarch.

1890 — Average attendance 120 children. Master and Mistress, Mr Henry and Mrs Jane Newmarch.

1902 — Attendance 152. Master and Mistress as in 1890.

A presentation was made to Miss N. Haley who was the Assistant Mistress on her retirement due to ill health.

September 26th 1903 — Meeting of Managers held at School. In the Chair: The Rev. T. I. Thomas. Present: Messrs. J. L. Mugleston and G. H. Lockyer (Churchwardens). Mr R. Waltham, representing the County Council and Mr Charles A. Millbank - The Parish Council. It was resolved to demand an apology from the Schoolmaster for the reflection entered by him in the Log Book on June 8th relative to the visit of the Ladies Committee. Failing this, to request his resignation. Also for her discourteous reception to the Ladies Committee, to request the Mistress to resign.

November 7th 1903 — The Managers agreed to charge £15 per year rent for the DwellResolved to pay the Caretaker 3s 0d per week for cleaning during the Summer. Agreed that Miss Staines (Assistant Teacher?) salary be increased to £30 per annum. Mr J. C. Whitebrook and his sister-in-law Mrs Whitebrook were appointed as temporary Master and Mistress. Louisa Woollerton was asked to act as Monitress and another girl to act as 2nd Monitress, their salaries to be 10s 0d per month. The salaries of the Master and Mistress to be £3 7s 6d together.

May 17th 1904 — It was reported that attendances were low owing to the outbreak of smallpox. A new Ladies Committee to superintend the Needlework classes would consist of Mrs Thomas, Mrs Wm. Millbank (if willing, if failing - Miss Mugleston) and Mrs Lockyer.

October 4th 1904 — New Management appointed - The Rector, R. D. Bingley, D. Cunliffe Smith Esq, James Palmer, R. Waltham and C. A. Millbank. Sir Charles C. Smith to be thanked for his long, faithful and most generous help. Mr. J. C. Whitebrook to be informed that the County Education Committee will not give sanction to his appointment and he be given three months Notice. To advertise for a Head Teacher and wife at salaries of £120, rising to £145 and £50 rising to £60. It was decided to engage Miss May Fletcher as Pupil Teacher at £15 12s 0d per year, or 6s 0d per week, rising to £18 4s 0d. Miss Fletcher later declined the position.

November 3rd 1904 — Mr C. A. Millbank seconded by D. Cunliffe Smith Esq proposed that Mr G. A. Howgate and Mrs Emily Howgate be appointed Master and Mistress - carried unanimously. It was decided to build an extra bedroom at the Dwelling house - the rent to remain the same - viz £15.

May 9th 1905 — Mr Waltham was thanked for his gift of a Flag-Staff. The Flag to be hoisted on May 24th.

August 1st 1905 — The Managers agreed to convey their sympathy to Lady Smith and her family in the loss sustained by the death of Sir Charles C. Smith, Bart.

December 12th 1905 — Mr. Palmer was thanked for allowing the children to play football and cricket on part of his field at the back of the school.

January 30th 1906 — Emily Owers, Monitress was recommended to receive 5s 0d per week instead of 2s 6d. It was agreed to disallow Mrs Monk 5s 0d for not washing the School during the Christmas holidays.

September 25th 1906 — Sir D. Smith was thanked for his offer of £5 towards the School Treat fixed for October - Mr Palmer promised to lend his field for the occasion.

October 24th 1907 — It was noted that by the liberality of a few, and especially the contribution of £25 from Sir D. C. Smith, the balance required for the new drainage (costing £85 18s 3d) would be met - it was hoped - by a voluntary rate. It was agreed to pay Mr C. Millbank 1s 0d per year for permission to dispose of School Sewerage in his field.

July 6th 1910 — The School being closed owing to Fever, the Managers met in the School Yard. Alterations and improvements were proposed.

October 18th 1910 — It was decided to insure the children against accidents on the premises at a cost of 4s 6d per year for the 200 children.

June 4th 1912 — Mr Howgate reported that the Water Supply was running short and the pump in the meadow was out of order. Mr C. Millbank was requested to have it repaired.

March 11th 1913 — The Managers (now including Mr G. S. Pledge) expressed their sympathy with Sir Drummond Smith at the loss of his Mother - Lady Cunliffe Smith.

April 21st 1914 — Reference was made to the valuations of the buildings and the site - the District Valuation being £1,090 including the site at £35. Messrs Saville's (Land Agents) Valuation was £1,740, including the site at £20.

December 15th 1914 — Mr Howgate asked for use of the building to give a Supper to the Special Constables.

June 6th 1916 — It was reported that Mrs Bartram - the Cleaner - was doing her work very satisfactorily and it was recommended to give her an extra 1s 0d per week, making the total 6s 0d.

February 27th 1917 — The Caretaker's salary was increased to 3s 6d per week.

June 19th 1917 — After discussing Air-Raids, the Head Teacher was requested that at such times he should give the children "Stations" and to disperse them into groups in favourable positions.

November 5th 1918 — The Head Teacher (Mr Howgate stated that his daughter Mary* appeared to have influenza and questioned the desirability of closing the School pro-tem in case of the epidemic spreading.

January 25th 1919 — Mr Reginald Garner of Great Colemans gave a treat to the schoolchildren and their parents. A good tea was provided by Mr W. Lane of the White Bear - after which "Professor" Portland ** amused both young and old with his Punch and Judy show. On leaving, each child was given an orange and a ½lb box of sweets. Mr Garner was thanked for his hospitality.

October 26th 1920 — Mr Howgate announced that he had taken Chapel House as his future dwelling.

February 8th 1921 — It was resolved to ask Sir Drummond Smith to take over the former School house and re-let it to any suitable party living on his estate.

July 11th 1922 — It was suggested that Mr Furze's name be submitted to the District Council as the representative for the Church Council in place of the Rev. G. E. White who had left the district.

October 24th 1922 — A hearty welcome was given Mr J. R. Furze, JPCC as the new colleague.

February 1st 1923 — The Managers approved James F. Crouch being trained by Mr Howgate as Pupil Teacher.

Later married Mr. Furze of the Hall and now (1972) living in Ongar.

The writer remembers that "Professor" Portland was engaged by his parents to entertain at his brother's Birthday Party in London a few years earlier. A curious coincidence !!

August 23rd 1923 — Miss Stockwell resigned after 18½ years as Mistress of the Infants Department.

March 12th 1925 — Mr Howgate's resignation, after 20 years of loyal and faithful service was received with much regret. It was resolved to give him a testimonial and write a letter of appreciation. Miss Ivy Miles was appointed as Supplementary Teacher in place of Miss P. Coleman.

February 25th 1926 — Miss F. J. Millbank was welcomed as a new member of the Management in place of Mr J. R. Furze (resigned).

March 6th 1926 — Miss Hearn was appointed Teacher in place of Miss McMain (resigned).

October 19th 1926 — Sir Drummond Smith was thanked for having the harmonium tuned. It was mentioned that Mrs Furlong (the Headmistress) was arranging a dance to raise funds to go towards the cost of a piano.

August 25th 1927 — The installation of central heating was approved. Possibly £10- would be received for the old stoves, £20 from the Diocesan Fund, Sir Drummond Smith had kindly promised £25; Mr Furze £5; The Rector £5; Messrs C. and H. W. Millbank each £1; and Miss F. J. Millbank £1. The installation would cost £95.

May 8th 1930 — A discussion took place regarding the financial position. Bills totalled £80 with only £32 in hand. Sir Drummond readily promised to give £30 and Mr Furze £5.

May 5th 1932 — Miss Furlong resigned as Head Mistress - Miss Marjorie Goodhew was appointed with the use of the School House. Miss Goodhew stated that she would have a lady companion to live with her.

August 8th 1932 — The serious financial position was discussed also the high cost of repairs to the School House. Sir Drummond Smith offered a gift of £50. It was decided to advise the Bishop's Fund of the difficulty of having so little money in hand.

August 20th 1932 — The finances again discussed and Sir Drummond increased his kind offer to £80. It was decided to ask the Diocesan Religious Education Committee for a grant of £150 for the repairs - if this were granted, it would leave £43 to be raised locally. Failing this the Managers (and Sir Drummond) felt that the care and trust should be handed over to the Church Authority.

September 29th 1932 — It was reported that the Diocesan Committee would give £70 towards the repairs. Mr Furze JP, CC, was appointed a Manager in place of Mr Pledge.

November 17th 1932 — A vote of sympathy was passed with the family of Mr Charles Millbank, who had for 40 years, helped the Management of the School and the Parish.

April 28th 1934 — The Managers - Canon Earle, Sir D. C. Smith, Bart., Messrs J. R. Furze, JP, CC, H. W. Millbank, Miss F. J. Millbank, and Mr G. A. Howgate. Canon Earle was appointed Chairman.

June 6th 1935 — Miss Rogers and Mr Upson were appointed Teachers. Miss Goodhew had resigned and steps were to be taken to find a new Head Teacher.

December 23rd 1935 — The Meeting held at Mr Howgate's residence, Chapel House. The School Room, now licenced for Dramatic performances ,will be let out for 10s 0d - out of which the Managers will pay for lighting, heating and caretaker's services.

October 7th 1937 — Due to the various functions, such as Whist Drives, etc. and due to grants from the Education Committee it was reported that for the first time for some years, the School had a satisfactory financial position.

September 14th 1938 — Mrs Lawrence was appointed as Teacher. Canon Earle solved the difficulty of accommodation by allowing Mr and Mrs Lawrence to rent the Rectory Cottage.

April 11th 1939 — Sir Drummond Smith, Bart. kindly presented the School with the Illuminated Address given to his father.

Mr W. Pearl's name is now included with those of the other Managers.

January 1942 — Mr H. W. Millbank welcomed the new Rector and spoke of the great loss sustained by the recent death of Mr J. R. Furze. Mr W. F. Hinman was appointed as a Foundation Manager.

1942 - 1945 — During the war the School was carried on by the Rector in consultation with the Managers. Mr Whitred acted as a temporary teacher and served the school well. The resignation of Miss Smith and her departure from the school has been a serious loss. Her nine years work was greatly appreciated by the Managers and Parents. Mrs Roberts, a member of the staff, was appointed as Head Teacher.

V. E. DAY — A Victory Tea and Social was organised for the children and was a great success.

July 31st 1945 — Mr Pledge said that he would allow the Air Raid Shelters to remain on his land if they were of use to the School for storage purposes.

November 7th 1945 — The Rev. P. Sowerby presided - Owing to the very bad financial position, the Rector and Mr H. W. Millbank agreed to write off the small debts due to them. Repairs were vitally urgent. Sir D. Smith, Bart. promised to give £50 to help the funds.

January 1st 1946 — Sir Drummond Smith proposed and Mr Hinman seconded, that Mr W. R. Pearl be appointed Treasurer A vote of sympathy was passed to Mrs and Miss Sowerby at the sudden death of the late Rector.

May 30th 1946 — The new Rector, the Rev. J. Muir Elliott MA, was welcomed to the Chair. The Sanitary Inspector demanded certain repairs to the well supplying the water. Sir Drummond offered to supply posts and wire for enclosing the play-ground and materials for the repair of the well.

April 29th 1947 — It was reported that Sir D. Smith was gravely ill. The Rector spoke in appreciation of the late Miss Fanny Millbank, whose death was Recorded.

November 14th 1947 — The Rector, Mrs Simmons, Messrs H. W. Millbank, W. R. Pearl and W. F. Hinman were present. The Rector spoke in appreciation of the late Sir Drummond Cunliffe-Smith and the meeting stood in silence. Sir Drummond Cospatric Spencer-Smith was elected to fill the vacancy caused by the death of his cousin

July 26th 1948 — Mr Millbank was elected Chairman - He spoke of the passing of the Rector, the Rev. Muir Elliott. Interest was expressed in the idea to install electric light. It was decided to raise the insurance on the Buildings from £3,000 to £5,000.

March 29th 1948 — The new Rector, the Rev. J. H. Ward was welcomed as the new Chairman. Sir D. Smith offered a Radio set to the School.

December 13th 1949 — Mrs Holland, the Teacher of the Infant Class resigned.

July 4th 1950 — Tributes were paid to the late Mr H. W. Millbank. Mr J. Millbank was appointed a Churchwarden. Mr. Taborn was appointed as second teacher and Sir Drummond was thanked for making a cottage available for his use. Calor gas and Tilley Lamps were installed as the new lighting system.

February 4th 1952 — It was reported that the atmosphere at the School had much improved since Mr Sharpen's advent. However, it was also stated that parents were showing a strong preference of sending their children to school at Ongar.

December 16th 1954 — Mrs Roberts reported that the fact that only 60 children now attended, was accounted for by poor transport facilities and the fact that children were being sent by omnibus to Coopersale and Stapleford Abbots. Re Staff - Mr Sharpen, excellent; Miss Wood (Dining Room attendant) the best ever; Mrs Wright - doing her work well.

August 9th, 1955 — The Managers expressed themselves well pleased with recent improvements - Mains Water had been brought from Stewarts Farm, Drainage connected to main, electric wiring installed to both School and house. The house had been modernised. The total cost would be about £3,800. The aged caretaker, Mr. Freshwater, was retired with a pension of 10s per week (5s from the Managers and 5s from the Parish Church Council). It was decided to present him with a token gift, this to be presented him at the Rectory by Sir Drummond. Mrs. Roberts' rent to be increased to £52 per annum.

March 22nd, 1956 — Present - Messrs. Armitage, Banks, Hinman, Licence, Pearl, The Rector and Mrs. Roberts. There was a discussion regarding the proceeds of the sale of trees felled in the playground.

December 19th, 1956 — There being no ballance left in the accounts, the Managers each contributed 10s each to enable Mrs. Roberts to provide the end of term Prize.

November 29th, 1957 — It was reported that Stephen Licence had gained a Scholarship to Harlow.

October 13th, 1958 — Owing to the death of the Rector, Mrs. Hinman was appointed Chairman until a new Rector came to the Parish.

August 11th, 1959 — The Rector, the Rev. H. C. Thomas, was elected Chairman.

July 27th, 1960 — Mr. Hinman resigned as a Manager. It was decided to write thanking him for his long and faithful service to the School.

October 5th, 1960 — Messrs. J. Millbank and J. Pledge were welcomed to the management. It was estimated that the School cost the County £2,400, i.e. approx. £100 per child annually.

February 22nd, 1962 — It was reported that only 20 children now attended the School and that it costs about £3,000 per annum.

June 27th, 1962 — A discussion took place regarding the possibility of the school be closed down.

March 19th, 1963 — The Rector stated that he thought the School would be closed at the end of the Summer Term. The news was received with much regret.

June 27th, 1963 — The Rector sent a letter to the Permanent Under - Secretary of State, Dept. of Education, stating that he and the Managers were anxious to keep the Village School open and suggested that transport be arranged to Ongar and the School be kept as an annexe.

February 8th, 1965 — The Divisional Education Officer stated that the School would be closed on April 25th and the scholars would have the choice of attending at Moreton or Ongar. It was agreed that enquiries be made regarding the future of the buildings, the school house and the site.

March 29th, 1965 — It was reported that Canon Martin had written that, as far as he was aware, the buildings belonged to the Diocese.

Author’s Note

The reader will have seen from the few short extracts of the School Records given above, that during the 115 years of its existence, much loving care, work and generosity was given by the Managers. When compiling this section, I had the hope that this book should be read by former pupils of the school so that they might appreciate those who helped them so much in their younger days. It seems a pity that now that the buildings are demolished, even the fact that the School ever functioned may not be known by future generations of local inhabitants.