School launches jubilee book

The 50-year history of St Philip Howard Catholic High School was celebrated by two of its first pupils and a pair of its latest.

They were joined by headteacher David Todd and assistant head Bob Tebbit for the launch of the school's golden jubilee book. Mr Tebbit presented the first copy of the 52-page publication to Mr Todd.

The presentation was made at 9.15am on September 9 '“ exactly 50 years after the school's first assembly was opened with 202 of its 214 pupils present.

Among them were Mary Harding, nee Gidman, and David Parker.

Mrs Harding, 61, said: "I had more good times than bad times at the school. I made some good friends and I have kept them all."

Her five years at St Philip Howard, after her arrival from St Philip's Catholic Primary School in Arundel, were followed by a spell as a book-keeper before she became a bank manager.

Now retired, she still has links with the school through its contribution to the carpet of flowers at Arundel Cathedral with which she is involved.

Mr Parker marked the 50th anniversary by recreating his schoolday walk from his then home in North Bersted. He walked along Collyer Avenue and Linden Road to Bognor Regis railway station to catch the equivalent of the 8.36am train he boarded daily.

"I can't believe it's 50 years since I started at St Philip Howard," said the 64-year-old part-time lecturer at the University of Portsmouth who now lives in Bognor town centre. "It's quite staggering."

They were joined at the book's presentation by newcomers Megan Worne and Harry Hall, both aged 11, on their third day at the Elm Grove South school.

Former St Philip's primary school pupil Harry said: "This is a good school. I like the subjects and the work. When I first came here, I didn't think I would remember where all the rooms were because it is so huge.

"But I know my way around now."

The book, From Bricks to Gold, traces St Philip Howard's history from the original plans in 1947 through to its opening 12 years later.

Head on the first day was Lionel Short. He was followed by Vincent Kelly and Francis Casey before Mr Todd.

Mr Tebbit said the book had been fun to compile. "It was amazing how much information we were able to gather," he said.

"We are delighted with the outcome and would like to thank the numerous contributors who have truly given a taste of the school over the years."

The book is available from the school office for 5 cash during office hours. Details of how to order by post are on the website www.st-philiphoward.w-sussex.sch.uk.

But the school is not resting on its achievements of the past half century. Its new learning resource centre '“ The Jubilee Centre '“ is about to be opened by the Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, Bishop Kieran Conry, to serve the community as well as students.

*Next month sees two major events taking place to mark the school's jubilee. The first is on October 17 when a reunion will be in the school from 2pm to 6pm.

October 19 will see a Mass celebrated in Arundel Cathedral by the Bishop of Arundel and Brighton followed by a reception in the Baron's Hall of Arundel Castle.

Free tickets are required for both events. The school's website shows how to obtain them. All with a connection to the school will be welcome.

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