SIR – It would be a great shame, were Belle Vue Boys’ School to pass into history.
As an alumnus (1970-75), I look back on the place with many positive memories: the dry wit of music master Mr Teale; the lucid enthusiasm of Mr Adams for chemistry; the analytical insight of our English literature man, Mr Mitchell; the dogged perseverance of French teacher Mr Betts; and others.
Though it is said that distance lends enchantment to the view, I have not forgotten some darker scenes.
There was the droll PE teacher, Mr Busby, who shouted, when I dodged (rather than tackled) a much bigger lad charging with the rugby ball, that in time of war I “would be used as cannon fodder!”
What I am sure of was that every master (including the odd twisted one) cared deeply about his subject, as I suspect is also true of today’s teachers.
Now, it seems that indiscipline, above all, is at the root of the school’s difficulties, or rather the consequence of well-meant but disastrous liberal-minded legislation, which prevents staff from enforcing discipline and being the respected authority-figures they once were.
Colin Hingston, Luccombe Road, Southampton
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