French At Sherbourne School in 1950.

Hughie Holmes was housemaster of the Lyon House in the fifties. He was a considerable character having played rugby for Cambridge University, and having a passion for salmon fishing. In the classroom, his form had to sit in set places, which were determined on how clever they were. The brightest at the back and the less able at the front. There were 3 weekly orders (no weedy grade cards) when your marks were added up and consequently you moved to a different position in the room.

        Hughie had a cane, which he kept in a locker below the blackboard, which was one of the newest being able to revolve. He used the can whenever anyone was late or forgot to bring their French book! It was quite simple, you remembered! He would say to offenders:

         “Bad luck old chap!”

          Whack! One of the best!

          He was a keen fives player so the blow could have just as easily have been delivered with his right hand.

          In those days there were no audio or videotapes though somehow Hughie managed to import enough French for me (Mr Holman, still in school at his age! -Ed) O Level and Oral French.

          He had various other instruments with which he used to trap the unaware.  He kept a squash ball in the right hand drawer of his desk and if anyone was dozing (or talking). Whizz! The squash ball would hurl at the offender. Eat your hearts out health and safety inspectors! He also had a loaded water pistol inside his desk and the unsuspecting were soaked with water if they weren’t getting on with their French!

Comment: And you still wonder where Holy gets it from???????