Today the fascinating story of the network of Horsham’s private boys and girls schools has been almost wiped from history, like chalk dust from the blackboard. However after nearly twenty years research, former teacher Elizabeth Vaughan, has rescued those faint traces left by the dust of history and created a fascinating story that lights up, like the new digital whiteboard, the history of Horsham’s private schools from 1887-1990.
Horsham was a hot bed of private education. Middle class parents were deserting the state system and sending their young to private schools to become the leaders of post-World War one Britain. Schools such as Horsham College, Springfield Park Preparatory School, Heron’s Ghyll, Forest Grange, Parkfield, The Manor House or St Peter’s School, St John’s College, Causeway School, Gringley are just some of the 21 recorded in the book.
Using first-hand oral and written accounts by former pupils, adverts from the local press, prospectuses and photographs as well as a thorough knowledge of the town’s history Elizabeth has woven a series of mini essays that tell the history of each school.
In addition Liz has added the human touch by using the memories of real pupils – Mrs Monro Higg at the Causeway School wore a pink angora jumper and Miss Neve at Heron’s Ghyll was remembered as having a lovely smile and a good sense of humour.
That school targeted the daughters of gentlemen who went hunting with the Horsham and Crawley Hunt, and some of the former pupils were presented at court. This reveals a hidden side to Horsham and how the town functioned in time that is so close, yet so distant in so many ways.
A few of the pupils at these schools went on to achieve national and international fame, including the popular author Hammond Innes who attended Causeway School, Donald Campbell, who later broke eight world water speed records attended The Manor House School opposite, and of course, the actress Virginia Mckenna went to Heron’s Ghyll.
With numerous photographs, delightful sketches and fascinating quotes “The Best Years of your Life? A History of Horsham’s Private Schools 1887-1990” is a real treat that rewards the reader with real insights in to Horsham. Those that read it will willingly give Elizabeth Vaughan a Gold star and an apple.
The Best years of your life? by Elizabeth Vaughan is available only from Horsham Museum and Art Gallery where Elizabeth has worked as a volunteer for over 20 years. Published by the Friends of Horsham Museum and Art Gallery, the book has been designed by Edwina Wilsher who has recently joined the Friends and also volunteers at the Museum.
“The Best Years of your Life? A History of Horsham’s Private Schools 1887-1990” a fully illustrated paperback is available at £9.50. A perfect Christmas present for anyone interested in the history and heritage of Horsham.
