Scope and Content
Includes:
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
1) Swiftplan Hut (5 years old) - seams opening on roof where sections joined and leaking into class takes place
2) Door on above hut (exterior) needs bracing at corners - holds panel of reinforced glass; Feb 1966
Memo from Director of Education to County Architect; 'I have received a request from the Headmistress [Infants School] for two name boards to be erected above the main entrance doors of the schools on this site in place of the existing board which is situated near the main gate and which proves to be misleading, causes inconvenience to people visiting the school, and gives the impression that the Junior and Infant Schools are under one administration, and that the Infant School is merely a department within the Junior School. The Headmistress's request is for two name boards to be erected above the main entrance doors or fixed to the walls at each side of the main doors, and for a notice with an arrow indicating direction placed inside the main entrance hall'; Feb 1966
Memo from Director of Education to County Architect; 'The Headmaster [Junior School] has written to me in regard to the muddy condition of the grass areas along two sides of the playground. He has suggested a low dwarf wall be built along the perimeter marked red on the attached sketch [scale approx 1/32" to 1']. I believe such a wall was originally intended but has not in fact been provided'; Feb 1966; Estimate for wall 18" high and 248' long @ £2..10s per foot is £620; Mar 1966
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
High wind has caught and smashed reinforced glass door of Swift-plan hut. Have patched up temporarily to avoid accident. Needs urgent attention - outside door; Sink in 3A class leaks around surround; Mar 1966
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Director of Education; 'This morning whilst delivering goods for the Canteen a lorry driver from Whitworth's Mills, Wellingborough (vehicle registration YRD 991) damaged the gate-post of the rear entrance to the School. The driver admits liability, the near side rear wing of his vehicle was damaged. Some brickwork of the gate-post will need immediate attention as at present the gates cannot be closed, and the swimming pool is not far from this entrance';
Jun 1966
Memo from Clerk of the Council to County Architect; 'I have now heard from the Insurers of Whitworth Holdings Limited (Atlas Assurance, Goldington Road, Bedford) that they are prepared to accept liability for the cost of the necessary repairs to the school gates in the sum of £14 as per the estimate obtained from Messrs Marlow dated 21 Jun'; Jul 1966
Memo from County Architect to Atlas Assurance; 'I have to inform you that the property is not insured in respect of impact damage'; Jul 1966
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Hutted class 3C leaking in roof; Head's room leaking in ceiling; nylon runner on staff-room cupboard needs replacement;
Sep 1966
Caretaker Mr B Currington resigns and will vacate the school cottage 29 Oct 1966; Oct 1966
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Window in hutted classroom 1C needs new glass. Broken by forced entry (break-in). Urgent - security involved; Nov 1966
Letter from Headmaster to Director of Education; 'At about 1pm Mon 14 Nov, Murco Petroleum Ltd delivered 600 gallons of 200 second oil for the school boilers. Mr Randall is the new school caretaker and he commenced duties on this particular day. He was cleaning an outlet vent to the fuel tanks (2 x 1,000 gallons) when the delivery man arrived. He was called away at this moment with an urgent request and when he came back some 10-15 minutes later, the oil was being discharged through the vent. Simultaneously, a loudish report occurred and Mr Randall went to the boiler-house, saw that No 2 tank had blown and told the delivery man to switch off his pump. The delivery-man confirms having heard the report, but said that he thought it was the boiler-house door banging on his tanker. He asked if we would like the spillage held in by the retaining wall of the boiler-house pumped out (a complete tank of 700 gallons). I agreed, and he then immediately said that he did not have enough hose. (22 feet would have been enough; I have since learnt that each lorry always carries at least 60 feet). Mr Randall worked six hours cleaning spilage on the water pumps and firing mechanism of No 1 boiler and removing oil deposits from the boiler side of the retaining wall. Messrs Clark's representative came on 16 Nov at my request and inspected the electrical firing, pronouncing No 1 boiler fit and safe to use, and indeed, he operated it. No 2 boiler had been operating all the time. Mr Riddles of Murco Petroleum rang me on Monday afternoon (presumably following the report of the delivery man) and instigated the removal of spillage (i.e. the bulk within the retaining wall) to be done by Tovey Transport of Cambridge. This is in fact proceeding at this moment. Mr Riddles did comment that the delivery man was a contract driver (as opposed to a regular delivery man). The school boilers are operating now satisfactorily, but using one storage tank only'; Nov 1966
Letter from Murco Petroleum Ltd to County Architect; 'I would refer to our conversation regarding the replacement of the damaged fuel oil tank ...We have placed an official order for this work to be undertaken, and it is anticipated that it will be completed by Wed 21 Dec. We are completely removing the existing tank and rebuilding a new one into position, as we are sure that this is what you would wish us to do. May I say that we regret this incident and trust that this arrangement will be satisfactory to you'; Dec 1966
Letter from Ministry of Labour, H.M. Factory Inspectorate; 'After a recent visit of H.M. Inspector of Factories to your premises, it was observed that the matters mentioned below required your attention; Regulation 6 of the Sanitary Conveniences Regulations 1964; An intervening ventilated space was not provided between the room containing the sanitary convenience and the Headmaster's Secretary's office. Where it is not reasonably practicable to provide such a space, the room containing the sanitary convenience should be provided with effective mechanical means of ventilation which should discharge directly into the open air, and which should be kept in operation during the periods during which any person is employed in the Secretary's office';
Jan 1967
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Hut (housing 3C and 4C classes) - roof leaking on right of 4C class as you enter door; catch on window in above hut broken; window hasp in 3A classroom broken; nylon runner on staff-room cupboard needs replacing; leak in middle of ceiling in 3A classroom; Jan 1967
Letter from Mrs S Jeffrey, Headmistress [Infants School]; 'I have been requested by Mr Anderson to send you a further order for the repair of an outer door spring. This door is heavy and without a spring presents a danger to the children. If this cannot be repaired, I would be grateful to have a door closer provided for the top of the door'; Feb 1967
Junior School Canteen; 'Complete interior decorations to all canteen rooms; The work is to be carried out during school Easter or Whitsun holidays 1967'; Mar 1967
Memo from Clerk of the County Council; 'Please note that Mr C L Turton, newly appointed caretaker of the school, moved into the Caretaker's house 6 Mar 1967, and should be charged rent as from that date of £26 per annum, exclusive of rates'; Mar 1967
Letter from Walker Crosweller and Co Ltd, Cheltenham; 'At Tithe Farm junior School, our Service Engineer found that water was dripping from the gland of the Leonard 3M. This was quickly overcome by half a turn of the gland nut, but whilst he was on site he dismantled the mixing valve to make sure it was in good mechanical order. It is understood that someone locally had examined the mixing valve and whilst doing so had stripped the thread in the control knob so that a new control knob had to be fitted'; May 1967
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Replacement of 5 coping tiles on boundary wall near bus stop. This is urgent because the public will prise more off (as is human nature) if some are missing; make good hole in floor by entrance to dining room. Danger to trolleys of dining chairs overturning;
Jun 1967
County Architect replying to Director of Education regarding request for heaters to hutted classrooms; 'regarding the provision of 2 electric heaters to be used during the early part of the morning when heating is required, I would state that I am a little reluctant to do this particularly in view of the memo recently received from the County Treasurer. he particularly draws attention to the use of additional electric space heaters, which have been provided in the past, and I think we should in future make sure that there is a real definite need for such equipment before distributing any further such heaters'; Jul 1967
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Header tank (main supply) - valve will not shut off; 3A classroom door (hut) temporarily serviceable but needs rehanging soon; 4C classroom (main building) leaking in two places (ceiling); Sep 1968 [?1967]
Memo from County Architect to Director of Education; 'I enclose an Invoice which I have received from Messrs Faulks Ltd for 12 lighting fittings, which have apparently been ordered on one of your own orders. Naturally I am intrigued to know why these fittings have been obtained and who has installed them'; Oct 1967
Letter from Mrs S Jeffrey, Headmistress, Infants School to Director of Education; 'I am writing to let you know of an accident which occurred in this school on Tuesday 17 Oct 1967. The teacher concerned was a Mrs Dorothy E Diesch, a full time Qualified Assistant. She received a blow to the head from a sliding door which fell from a wall cupboard. The accident happened at approximately 10.35am during the morning break. There were no witnesses. When information about the accident was received in the office, a Doctor Jones from Houghton Regis was immediately called for. An ambulance was requested and the Doctor arrived at the school almost at once. Mrs Diesch was admitted to Luton & Dunstable Hospital where she is still detained for observation. As a precautionary measure against further accidents of this nature, the sliding doors from all wall cupboards have been removed. A request has also been sent to the County Architect to have the door fittings modified'; Oct 1967
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
3C classroom wall needs plaster made good - damaged owing to settling and poor plaster initially; All drinking fountains want maintenance; Flagstones on playground steps need refixing and levelling; boundary wooden fence needs inspection for rot;
Nov 1967
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Director of Education; 'I am about to accept an estimate for the installation of a 24KW heater (Bastian & Allen) for the pool at the school. The work to be done by the Eastern Electricity Board and paid for by the School'; Oct 1967; With manuscript note; 'Quote appears satisfactory from Eastern Electricity for £268. Sub-main to run above ceiling across corridor, across boiler house then in trench with Sub-main to terrapin over roadway thence in trench to Pool Plant Room'; Nov 1967
Letter from C L Turton, Caretaker; 'I have been advised by Mr Potts (Dunstable Borough Surveyor) to approach you with a request for a representative from your department to inspect the heating arrangements where I reside with my family. I and my wife feel that the existing arrangements are totally inadequate and there is proof that various methods have previously been tried with little or no success. I would point out that [the] amount of glass built into the house is approximately 200 sq ft downstairs and rather more upstairs. Consequently there is a terrific amount of condensation and water lays on the window sills in pools every morning. There is only one open fire-grate and whatever heat we require upstairs must be by what electric fires we possess, our heating expenses are considerable'; Nov 1967
Handwritten response to request for heaters in the hut classrooms [Infants]; 'I visited this school on Friday 8 Dec when it was very cold indeed. I found the main door of hut wide open, the classroom door open, and the [oil fired] heater unit turned down to No 2. I think we have a number of reasons for the troubles they experience; 1) the other huts have electric fires, why not us?; 2) Instead of having doors wide open, it would be better to have stoves turned up and windows open for ventilation; 3) I think the main reason for the heater being turned down is because they are filled by hand, and would require filling more often. (Why not direct connection to the tank)? If then stoves were turned on full at 7am in the morning and doors used intelligently, I am sure it would be different'; Dec 1967
Memo from County Architect to Director of Education; 'Under these circumstances I see no reason why electric fires should be provided. Obviously if the doors are kept closed and the heater run at a higher level there should be no further difficulty. If this is done in respect of all the heaters at this school, then the electric fires at present in use can be withdrawn'; Dec 1967
Mamo from County Architect to Director of Education; 'I would recommend that the Plant House for the learner pool be extended to double the present size with headroom of approximately 6'6" to accommodate the heating unit and to facilitate routine maintenance'; Jan 1968
Reply; 'I anticipate that the cost of the alterations you suggest will be fairly high and I have therefore informed the Headmaster that it will not be possible to include this project in the current Minor Works Programme and that I will find it difficult to recommend a high priority for the work in a future Minor Works Programme. You may recall, however, that when the pool was opened it was unofficially agreed that as the plant house was both small and not suitably sited, the Authority would at some future date replace this plant house. The Headmaster informs me that the heating plant has now been delivered and I would like to do all that I can to help the school install this heating plant'; Feb 1968
Manuscript note on dorse; 'The existing swimming pool plant house is most unsuitable as it is at the moment. It is incapable of taking the heating plant in anything like a workmanlike manner. The Headmaster is reported to have said that when you opened the pool you stated that we would do something about it!'
Reply; 'I would agree that when I opened the pool I said that the plant housing was far from ideal. I did not however undertake to build a new one at the Authority's expense, and I most certainly do not have the necessary funds available at this point in time. As you are aware, I have been instructed to severely curtail me revenue expenditure. It may be however that you will be prepared to make the necessary monies available from myour own funds'; Feb 1968
County Architect invites tenders for part interior decoration [amended specification] to Infant and Junior Schools; six contractors contacted; May 1968
Howley Decorations Ltd, Luton, successful with their quotation for £1,422; Jun 1968
Specification for the above; 'Part Interior Decorations to the School, consisting of Single Storey Infants Section and Two Storey Junior Classroom Block, with Hutted Classrooms. the work is to be carried out during the school summer holidays 20 Jul - 30 Aug 1968 (18 classrooms, corridors, toilets and cloakrooms)
Another specification as above but dates now 20 Jul - 30 Aug 1969
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Director of Education; 'There are outside the School two standard lamps (electric) and, despite the constant attentions of the caretaker, birds continue to build nests in the shades. Two fires have resulted and I would be grateful if the lamps could be made birdproof, please, after maintenance. This should avoid further trouble'; Jun 1968
Letter from County Architect to L and P Paving Co Ltd, Thrapston, accepting their tender for Resurfacing and Playground Alterations [Infants School] (amount not mentioned); Jul 1968
Letter from County Architect to Murco Petroleum Ltd, Grosvenor Street, London; 'I would refer to your letter ...informing me that you proposed replacing the oil storage tank at the school. This work has not been carried out and a temporary repair carried out by yourselves at the time has now failed again. I should be pleased to know if it is your intention to arrange for the work to be executed, as the matter is now urgent, or whether you would prefer me to have the work carried out on your behalf, and the account forwarded for your settlement'; Sep 1968
Reply; 'We were surprised to receive your letter ...regarding the replacement of the Oil Storage Tank at the school and your statement that this work had not in fact been carried out. We stated that the work would be completed by Wed 21 Dec 1966, but at the Headmaster's request this was put back and in fact the tank was replaced completely on 29/30 Dec 1966. This was immediately followed by refilling and presumably it has been in use ever since. We have looked most carefully into this matter and our records show that this work was completed and the site cleaned up by the above mentioned dates and that we have long since paid this account. We note from your letter that you say that this tank has now failed again and we would suggest that this failure may probably have been occasioned during a recent delivery of oil and consequently we would suggest that this matter be taken up with your suppliers'; Sep 1968
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School]; 'The old tank was dismantled and removed, oil spillage cleaned, and by 17 Jan 1967, a new tank welded together in situ. Upon the first delivery of oil, seeping at the joints was noticed, and the tank was drained and repaired. During the process some combustion must have ensued as one of the fire extinguishers was used and left empty by the workmen. On 24 Feb 1967, the boilers were converted to thin oil and seepage recommenced. This was reported to the County Heating Engineers ...Mr Todd called and inspected 16 Jul 1968 and I sent in a form BM2 as requested'; (with diagram of boiler showing where seepage occurred); Sep 1968
Letter from County Architect to Murco Petroleum; 'I would point out that no reference was made to this Office when the work had been completed and consequently no arrangements were made by my Office to inspect the work or witness pressure tests etc., Had this been done the tank as it stands now would not have been accepted by my Engineers ...Before the accident to the original tank, no leakage of oil was taking place, and this was a unit complete with the correct form of pipe connections etc., The existing item is a fabrication of pieces of metal cut from the old tank, which have been indifferently welded to some new plate and in some places not welded at all. The position now is that this is a very dangerous situation and that unless something is done immediately, fire could be caused. The School's half term holiday is the week commencing 28 Oct and the necessary remedial work must be carried out during that time. Perhaps you would be good enough to inform me if you can arrange for this or whether you would prefer me to have the work carried out and the account rendered accordingly'; Oct 1968
Reply; 'Your letter has greatly surprised us, particularly as it infers that the tank was not replaced completely, as intended. Without further investigation we are unable to agree that this is so. The work was carried out on our behalf by a reputable firm who quoted for a complete replacement which we believe was the case. It will be necessary for us to look closely into this matter and consequently we are forwarding the information to the contractors concerned with an urgent request that they immediately investigate your complaint. You will understand that we are unable to comment until we receive further information. Presumably you will take what [fire] precautions you consider necessary but we are unable to agree to automatically carry the cost of any work which you undertake. I am unable to agree that you were not informed of this work proceeding and its completion. Our letter 19 Dec 1966 informed you that we were going ahead with this work and at our representative's meeting with your Mr Banks, the whole programme of tank cleaning which had been undertaken was discussed and this particular item was also mentioned. We wrote to you 20 Apr 1967 advising that the whole of the work had been completed and requesting your confirmation that it had been carried out to your satisfaction. No reply was received'; Oct 1968
Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer; 'We have now been able to resolve the problem of the leaking oil tank. The Oil Company concerned have agreed to the rectification work'; Nov 1968
Memo from Chief Fire Officer; 'During a routine visit to the school my Fire Prevention Officer noted that the Boiler House is being used as a workshop, and large quantities of flammable materials are stored therein. It is recommended that the use of this room as a workshop be discontinued and all flammable storage removed'; Nov 1968
Further Memo; 'Following your request my Fire Prevention Officer recently visited the school and made the following comments:
1) Boiler House - Junior School: The No 2 oil storage tank has faulty welded joints which allow oil to seep into the bund. At present there is oil in the bunded area to a depth of about 1 inch. This increases the fire hazard in the boiler room as the tanks are separated from the boilers by a dwarf bund wall only, and even a small fire in the boiler room may cause sufficient heat to rupture a weak tank and allow oil to be released and cause a large fire situation. It is recommended that the tank be repaired and the oil removed from the bund.
2) 200 gallon Paraffin Tank - Infants School: The free standing paraffin tank, by the footpath at the front of the school, is positioned on several courses of loose dry bricks and could easily be pushed over by childen. Oil is decanted from the tank to supply the large drip-fed oil heaters in the timber classrooms. It is recommended that the tank be resited to a position less likely to be approached by children. The oil should be piped to the paraffin heaters and the large reservoir at the back of each fire dispensed with. It is understood that a proposal such as this is already under consideration by your department'; Nov 1968
Reply from County Architect regarding item 2); 'The work as suggested would cost in the region of £90. Would you be content at this stage with the tank being left where it is but supported in a more substantial manner?'; Dec 1968
Reply; 'In view of the cost it would be satisfactory at this stage to build a more substantial support for the tank. I recommend, however, that the tank be repositioned to a site away from the footpath and where it is less accessible to the children'; Dec 1968
(on dorse, rough sketch of old and new positions for tank; 'move tank and build brick pier 6' higher than now')
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School]; 'The only place for the School Reference Library is in a small unused entrance - which site we have been using for some time now. However, it is near cupboard accommodation for wet cleaning materials and also in close proximity to toilets. The space is a "dead end" and the unwanted smells get trapped there. Would it be possible, please, to fit a small ventilating fan in the side window? Power connection can be made close at hand at a convenient junction box';
Nov 1968 (cost for supply and installation estimated at £40)
Chief Education Officer agrees to the above; 'I note the cost is estimated at £40 and confirm that this may be charged to the Primary Schools Contingency Fund';
Letter on behalf of County Council; 'Sheppard Fabrications Ltd have carried out to our entire satisfaction rectification work to No 2 tank at the school as specified'; with pen note 'satisfactory before being repositioned'; Jan 1968 [1969]
Letter from County Architect to Murco Petroleum; 'My engineer has inspected the tank, and except for item (c) in paragraph one of your original programme, i.e. Clean the oil spillage in the bund and leave clean, the work has been carried out satisfactorily';
Jan 1969
Reply; 'Regarding the cleaning of the bund, I have spoken to Messrs Purle Waste Disposal (East Midlands) on this matter requesting them to go ahead to complete the job'; Jan 1969
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Chief Education Officer; 'The School has a bank of twelve accumulators (trickle charged) which supply the power for the class-change bell and fire-alarm. This system has been installed for eight years and although the cells have been regularly topped-up, the apparatus is in need of maintenance now. Could it be checked up please, with special attention to corroded terminals and faulty rheostat? The system is one installed by Pritchett and Gold and E.P.S. Co Ltd, Dagenite Works, Dagenham Dock, Essex'; Feb 1969
Tender for Internal Decoration (Infants and Junior) by E M Chamberlain Ltd, Luton, for £1,103 was accepted; Apr 1969
Letter from Headmistress [Infants School]; 'I wish to let you know that a forced entry to this school took place on the night of 17 Sep 1969. The following list shows the amount of money taken, also the damage to the school premises and office furniture:
Loose change missing: Private Telephone Calls - silver 2s..6d; copper 9d; Late Dinner Money - £1..10s
Damage: Window to Head Teachers' office - broken; Window catch in Infants Hall - forced off; Door and doorpost to Head Teacher's office - damaged in an attempt to force entry; Head Teacher's desk - splintered as drawers were forced open; Filing cabinet - drawers to flushline grey cabinet buckled; The Police and C.I.D. Officers have visited the school'; Sep 1969
Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer; 'I would state the cost of providing pin boarding in the corridors and hall is in the region of £170. As there are no funds available in the current years estimates, will you please confirm whether I am to put the work in hand and charge the cost to the Primary Schools Contingency Fund'; Oct 1969
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School]; 'I am very worried about the mud caused by the grassed area in front of the two hutted classrooms ...I have tried all sorts of methods to prevent mud being carried into the hutted classrooms and also the main building, but all to no avail'; Jan 1970 (with diagram of area affected)
Reply from County Architect; 'I would state that a chain link fence has been erected each side of the path leading to the Terrapin Hut Classroom I. This should eliminate the mud now being carried into the classroom'; Apr 1970
Specification for Complete Interior Decorations of School Canteen Building [Junior School] including Kitchen, Larder, Cloakroom and Vestibule, Stores and Offices; Feb 1970
Tender for the above from S J Farrow Ltd, Dunstable, for £128 was successful; Mar 1970
Specification for Complete Exterior Decorations to all school buildings, fences and gate, Caretaker's Cottage and Classrooms in Infants Playground (Note: Terrapin Hut not to be included); Apr 1970
Tender for the above from E W Comb, Dunstable, was successful; Apr 1970 (amount not stated)
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Make good asphalt 1) in trench across access road to kitchen etc.,; 2) patches in playground
Replace window in hut (4J classroom); Seal off leaking flashing to clerestory windows in hall; Apr 1970
Further Form BM2; From the attached diagram [not here] you will see where two spans of five feet high chain link fencing (rusty) have been broken down to give access to teenagers who have been playing on sportsfield without permission during weekends and holidays. There is virtually no barrier here now. The posts are still in situ. May the chain link be replaced urgently please for security purposes. The existing chain link is very rusty; Apr 1970
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Chief Education Officer; 'The switch boxes for the mains supply for the circulating pump and heating apparatus in the swimming pool pump house have, over the last seven years, deteriorated with damp, and I feel, should be inspected with a view to replacement, please'; Apr 1970
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect following correspondence from Mr Day, Headmaster [Junior School]; 'One of the plastic containers of the filtration plant recently split; Messrs Keay & Son made two attempts to repair this fault and their second attempt proved successful (a steel jacket replacement). Mr Day considers their efforts praiseworthy and he was grateful for their prompt attention'; May 1970
Manuscript note; 'It is proposed to replace the filter plant at the school swimming pool, subject to approval. It is therefore requested that the roof height be raised in order to give a comfortable working height. The exterior walls also require re-rendering'; Nov 1970
Letter from County Architect to Eastern Electricity Board; 'I am disappointed to hear that the school have exceeded the declared Maximum Power Requirement of 47KVA. An investigation of the premises and discussions with the Head Teachers have not shown any reason why this should have occurred. I would be grateful if you would bear with us for the next two months to see if this situation occurs again, and if so then I will most certainly re-declare. The Head Teachers are now aware of th esituation and will exercise maximum restraint. There are no plans in the foreseeable future for any further additions or alterations to the permises'; Dec 1970
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'Damage was caused to the premises on Saturday evening 27 Feb 1971. The Headmaster [Junior School] states that a Mr J E Reason of Wiggington, near Tring, apparently admits he drove round the school's rear access road without permission and ran into the kitchen wall knocking down a 6ft section and also flattening one swill bin'; Mar 1971
Report of Damage to Property by Vehicles; 'Return portion of double wall of swill-bin enclosure completely knocked down and canopy support which wall carried knocked out. 1 Swill bin flattened'; driver states 'Whilst turning in seat to observe rear before reversing, foot slipped off brake pedal onto accelerator causing car to jump forward (automatic)'; driver admits to damage and will settle privately; car registration CNK 798 F
Marlow & Anderson, Dunstable provide an estimate of £48 for carrying out the necessary repairs to the wall of the Canteen;
Apr 1971 (swill bin replacement estimated at an additional £3; Jun 1971)
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'I have received a request from the Headmaster for the provsion of wall brackets to be fitted to enable the storage of P.E. equipment which apparently at present is stacked loose in the hall'; May 1971 Reply; 'The cost for providing metal brackets fixed to the brickwork for P.E. equipment would be approximately £18'; May 1971
Reply; 'This can be charged to the Primary Schools Contingency Fund'; May 1971
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Leak in roof of hut - gaps in joints of roofing-felt on 3G (hutted classroom); Mar 1971
Form BM2; 'Flat roof over staff room leaking and water seeping through ceiling'; May 1971
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'Insulation is required on the roof of the swift plan classroom as the heating in these classrooms is "inadequate". I shall be grateful if you will kindly arrange for either some form of insulation to be provided or for the heating system to be improved'; Jun 1971; with note stating 'The roofs of these buildings consist of plaster board on joists with boarded and felted roof. Heating is reasonable but is lost through roof. Insulation can be placed between joists. Cost approximately £80'
Reply; 'My Area Building Surveyor has passed to me an estimate for £80 to provide additional roof insulation to the Swift Plan Classroom. You will recall that your memorandum requested this work to be included in the 1972/73 revenue estimate but I am reluctant to do this as to do so at the Junior School would create a precedent for all other similar type huts throughout the County'; Oct 1971
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Replace smashed windows in each of 3F (hutted classroom) and kitchen broken by vandals over weekend. This is a confirmation of order put in by phone to Marlow & Anderson as security involved; Jun 1971
James Stott & Co (Engineers) Ltd (Stotts of Oldham) to supply stainless steel sink unit for canteen; Jun 1971
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
URGENT - could be dangerous: Low wall carrying railings bordering rear access road to School is loose right across at base and ready to collapse; Paving stone on platform overlooking yard collapsing inwards; Jul 1971
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'The cobblestones edging the pathway around the School are becoming loose, gradually being removed and leaving large holes'; Jul 1971
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'I have received a request from the Headmistress [Infants School] for a tarmac path to be laid where the areas of the lawn have worn away. She has also requested additional storage space for furniture and equipment'; Sep 1971
Reply; 'The approximate cost of the tarmac path would be £180 and the approximate cost for a brick store 15' x 15' £1,800';
Oct 1971
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School]; 'In view of the fact that the Authority has spent a largish sum of money on a new filtration plant for the swimming pool, and as I understand that the facilities offered by the plant are unique to the County, I felt you would probably like to know of our experience with it in the first season of use' [lists various problems encountered and solutions, concluding with 24 Sep 'filtration plant was switched off, the last week of the swimming season being carried on without its use - this fault still awaits rectification']; General Observations: The plant has been a great improvement on the previous diatomaceous filter, and owing to sensible operating, has been able to give a much improved service. It has saved operating time and the increased horsepower of the pump has meant better vacuuming. When the teething troubles have finished the plant will prove a sound investment and be pretty foolproof. A point of criticism, however. One feels it should be possible to manually control, so that vacuuming of sediment (say after a thunderstorm) can by-pass filter and go straight to pool disposal outlet, thereby avoiding overloading of filter. The facility exists and the operator's instructions include provision for effecting this, but it necessitates removal of the control cover to implement. The County Maintenance Engineer said the cover should not be touched'; Oct 1971
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
The front of the school (eight permanent classrooms) has previously let in water owing to its design. Large replacements of woodwork in the prefabricated sections were made some 18 months ago. Six classes need ?bostik sealing - caretaker knows the spots in the window frames in each case and Class 6 is in urgent need of replaced woodwork (some is rotten). This particular class leaks badly'; Mar 1972
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Chief Education Officer; 'Following the visit of Mr Roberts of the County Architect's Department, the boiler house and electrical terminal equipment room have apparently to be cleared of any materials being stored there. This is going to present major problems. At the moment such necessary items as: 2 step-ladders, extending ladder, work bench, heavy brooms, shovels, sacks of road salt, sack truck and tools are housed in the boiler house and soft brooms, mops, mop-pails, cleaning fluid, floor emulsion and new cleaning items in bulk are stored in the electrical terminal equipment room. If we have to put these elsewhere I should be glad of your advice as to where one might store them under cover. They are obviously absolute necessities needed in running the School, and I know of no other storage place'; Mar 1972
Reply from County Architect; 'I have inspected the School with the Head Teacher and consider a portable wooden shed, approximately 9' x 15' would be the only thing suitable to cope with the storage problem. This can be sited at the rear just off the School road and on existing hardstanding. The approximate cost is £180. If in the future a more permanent building is required a brick structure could be considered'; May 1972
Report of Fire Service Department [Junior School]: 1) Means of escape in case of fire; Paper towels and other combustible materials are stored in the staircase enclosures (Combustible materials should not be stored in these areas. Apparently this school has a storage problem and has no storage area for these materials. It is suggested that the provision of a separate store for these materials be investigated). 2) Boiler room and Meter room; Combustible materials are stored within these areas (Combustible materials should not be stored in these areas - see above). 3) Terrapin building; No extinguisher (Provide 1 x 2 gallon water/gas extinguisher). 4) Kitchen; No CO2 extinguisher (Provide 1 x 2 1/2 lb CO2 extinguisher near the existing fire blanket); The extinguishers were last checked Oct 1970 (The extinguishers should be tested annually); Mar 1972
Detailed specification for Resurfacing of Entrance Drive [Junior School]; Jun 1972
Home Counties Surfacing Limited, Hertford, were successful with their tender (amount not stated); Jul 1972
Detailed specification for Path Alteration and Surfacing [Infants School]; includes site plan, scale 1/32" to 1'; Jul 1972
R E Crawley Ltd, Wellingborough, were successful with their tender (amount not stated); Aug 1972
Memo from Clerk of the County Council to County Architect; 'The Caretaker [C L Turton] has been served with Notice to Quit expiring at the end of October. As it is anticpated that I may have to resort to eviction proceedings, I should be grateful if you would let me know what you consider to be a fair figure for the mesne profits on the premises as a "restricted" rent is being charged at the present time'; Sep 1972
Hand written details of acccommodation for Caretaker's House (3 bedrooms)
Reply from County Architect; 'I am of the opinion the current market rent for this house is £7 per week, inclusive of all repairs and outgoings, except rates'; Oct 1972
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Chief Education Officer; 'At 9pm 26 Oct, the caretaker, Mr Monnery, did his rounds of the School and everything was in order. He then went home to Leagrave. When he arrived at school at 7.20am the next day, it was found that a forced entry had been made through the Infant School and the vandals had continued their activities in the Junior School ...The following damage was perpetrated {Junior School]: fire hose pulled out and turned on in hall; two picture glasses smashed; P.E. apparatus thrown over hall; mud and scuff marks in liberal amounts - also paint; hammers in piano (32) had heads smashed off; seven out of eight classrooms in main building were visited and display-work torn down and books scattered over floor; display work on staircases and in corridors torn down; hole kicked in Headmaster's door (locked); 1 set of goal posts on sportsfield forced apart and split ...The incident reinforces the necessity for the caretaker to be living on the premises. We feel that had he been living here he would have done his rounds just a bit later and would have caught the vandals'; Oct 1972
Damage to Infants School: far rear corridor door forced open; handle torn off P.E. store; first aid cabinet ripped off wall; County Library book shelf broken and books strewn over floor; hose turned on and left running, flooding corridors; toilet paper strewn about; two soap dispensers torn off wall; various childrens work torn from walls; glue emptied on teacher's desk; obscene writing on desk; two tambourines broken.
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
'The eight classroom window units of the permanent block are badly in need of renovation. This is the third time it will have been done. Various leaks around window frames have been marked - some are bad, and in one case rotten wood is evident. The leaks have resulted in books being spoilt'; Dec 1972
Another Form BM2; 'Two areas at rear of building 6' x 13' and 6' x 24' are let into the paved area leading in to back of school by one entrance. The pebbles are coming out in patches and are dangerous on two counts; a) the loose ones are being thrown; b) children are tripping over cavities; May these areas be asphalted or concreted over, please, after removal of pebbles?; Leakage of roof in each of two boys' toilets seeping into toilet area has caused deterioration of wall plaster which is falling and needs replacing; Door frame of hutted classroom (Class II) is out of true due to subsidence and door does not shut'; Jan 1973
Detailed specification for Interior Decoration, Infant School Canteen; 'complete internal decoration of kitchen, larder, office, vegetable store, staff toilet and entrance vestibule'; Feb 1973 (planned for Easter, 12 - 28 Apr)
V Bonham & Sons Ltd, Dunstable, were successful with their tender (amount not stated); Feb 1973
Further copy of specification as above; Apr 1973 (planned for 12 Jul - 25 Aug)
V Bonham & Sons Ltd, Dunstable, were successful with their tender (amount not stated); Jun 1973
Letter from Acting Headmistress [Infants School]; 'I wish to report the breakage of a window in one of the huts used by the Infant School, on Sunday. The caretaker informed me that children were trespassing in the school grounds with a football and he repeatedly asked them to leave'; Mar 1973
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'The Headmistress of the Infants School has requested the provision of a power point in the school corridor for the electrical appliances used by the School Caretaker'; Apr 1973
Reply; 'The estimated cost involved will be in the region of £20'; May 1973
Reply; 'I should be grateful if you would arrange for this work to be carried out as soon as possible. The cost ...to be charged to the1973/74 Primary Schools Contingency Fund'; Jun 1973
Memo from Clerk of the County Council to County Architect; 'With reference to your memo in which you stated that five rooms in the Caretaker's House required redecoration, although this work is usually carried out by the Caretaker, I should on this occasion be glad if you would arrange for the five rooms to be redecorated as soon as possible. A new Caretaker has been appointed for the school and will take up occupation in the very near future'; May 1973
Detailed specification for Playground Resurfacing [Infants School]; May 1973 (planned for 18 Jul - Aug)
Home Counties Surfacing Limited, Hertford, were successful with their tender (amount not stated); Jun 1973
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to Chief Education Officer; 'Walker Crosweller's representative called 6 Jul and I asked him particularly during the servicing of mixing valves [hot water system] to check on those in the first/fourth year boys' toilet. He reports that a check valve needs replacing. He remembers reporting this at least a year ago and I have sent in a form BM2 months ago and still nothing has been done'; Jul 1973
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Make good plaster in corner of Classroom 3P and around door in 2nd/3rd year boys' toilet; 2nd/3rd year boys' toilet - crack in ceiling leaking rain near outer door; Reset edging stones on front entrance steps before they fracture; Sep 1973
Letter from Headmistress [Infant School] to County Architect; 'I must report a dangerous crack in the brickwork of the indoor wall of the Infant Hall. As climbing apparatus is attached to the wall, the use of this equipment has been suspended until the crack has been repaired and the wall declared safe'; Oct 1973
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Rain coming in on window side and leaking across floor of 4BD Classroom; Rain leaking in staff-room ceiling in South East corner and coming down wall'; Oct 1973
Further form BM2: Classroom 3P (on end of wing top floor) subsidence has occurred causing a substantial crack (18') in BOTH SKINS of the wall; Please replace 2 panes glass 3P room; Two chandeliers (some 22' above ground in staircase wells) need checking for security. We cannot reach by any method we've tried'; Nov 1973; with pen note 'these cracks have been repointed but are showing again after 4 months, and the building is on the move'
Detailed specification for Interior Decoration, Youth Club; 'Complete internal decoration of entrance Staff Room Office, Hall and end annexe, Stage, Showers, Corridors and Coffee Room'; Dec 1973
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Rooms 4BD, 3P (and to a lesser extent 2Q) have rotten window frames and rain is flowing through and results in large pools in the middle of the classroom. This has been patched up before, but the job is not weatherproof and needs fundamental treatment'; Jan 1974
Letter from Headmaster [Junior School] to County Architect; 'The class window units in the southern aspect of the School (eight permanent classrooms) need urgent attention. All window frames are leaking and this is particularly evident in four of the classrooms. Several requests for repairs have been made and some five abortive attempts at repair have resulted over the last four years. Following ordinary winter rain, pools result in the middle of the classroom floors, and I myself recently have repeatedly mopped up rain from all window ledges in one class and spent more time in an hour keeping the water in check than teaching. A thorough check on all the casement woodwork is essential (rot is extremely prevalent) and some fundamental approach is needed to rectify this problem'; Jan 1974
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Junior School]; The following requires attention;
Fence panel blown down round Caretaker's Cottage, temporarily fixed; URGENT - replace window pane in 4BD classroom (No 6), cracked previously - now blown in. Already handed to Messrs Anderson to deal; Leak from roof near pendant light in hall ceiling, could be dangerous'; Feb 1974
Form BM2 (Building Maintenance) from Head Teacher [Infant School]; The following requires attention;
Paving slabs at entrance to the school require levelling; all windows have been broken in one hut on site; Sep 1974
Report into cracks in external walls; i) Diagonal cracking in brickwork; 'It is evident from examination that the differential movement in these walls is horizontal not vertical which points to thermal causes'; ii) Horizontal cracking in rendered finish; 'From a remote examination it appears that only the render has cracked and not the wall behind'; Oct 1974
Note from Structural Engineer; 'All faults have been examined by me and are considered not to have any structural significance. However with regard to the horizontal crack on rear elevation of Teaching Block, I am awaiting the details from the outside Architect in order to be sure'; Oct 1974
Report on decay in timber panel walling and glazing; 'The wall panels are 25' 9 1/2" wide and 10' 5" high and are constructed of 6" x 2" softwood framing rebated to receive glass or asbestos sheet panels, external hardwood beads secure these in position. The beads project forward of the framing by approximately 1/8". Incorporated in the framing are metal opening sashes. The detail of the framing and beads has collected moisture instead of shedding it. The Southern aspect brings high surface temperatures, the wetting and drying has opened up joints, buckled beads, split the timber and the excessive movement has broken up the paint film allowing further ingress of moisture. The result is the decay of the framing at the joints, tops and bottoms of mullions, the front edge of transomes and sills, beads have rotted or buckled so as to become ineffective. Two years ago about half of one frame was replaced with some cutting back of decayed sections and replacement with new timbers. At the present time work is taking place to cut out further decayed sections and replace with new timbers, the new timbers are being primed and fixed back against a bed of putty to prevent voids for water collection. An attempt is being made to improve the detailing with the object of shedding water off the structure, beads have been enlarged and a drip groove incorporated for this purpose. The Area Building Surveyor made a report on the condition of these wall units and requested a further £1500 in addition to the £500 already in the estimates. He informs me that he received no information as to whether the money was approved and is therefore restricting himself to the £500 already in the estimates. It is quite clear that the degree of decay is directly proportional to the elevational aspect of the panel, those facing South being the worst, those away from or sheltered from the sun being least affected. As an alternative to complete replacement, the present method of repair would last for 5-10 years, but it is not possible to do a once and for all repair in this type of situation using timber as the media, it will be necessary to review the situation at each cycle of external decoration, with perhaps intermediate attention to those areas which frequently shed the paint film'; Oct 1974
Letter from Correspondent to the Managers to County Architect; 'The School Managers have requested me to ask for your urgent consideration in fixing a meeting at the School ...in order to inspect the fabric of the School. They feel that there are some parts in need of urgent maintenance, amd one item gives them particular concern as being a possible safety hazard and demands immediate expert opinion'; Oct 1974
Form BM2 [Junior School]; 'The whole window framework of the eight classrooms in the front of the school are rotten and need complete replacement. Patching up - no doubt very expensive, has been going on for some years now'; Nov 1974
Programmed Maintenance: External Paintwork - last painted in 1970, paint film now showing signs of peeling on fascia boards and flaking on infill panel units which form the South elevation of the Teaching Block belonging to the Junior School. Infill units on Infants School have not deteriorated to the same extent although cracking of the paint film has occurred on most of the cills and transomes of the units in the Classrooms. A sum of £250 was included in the Revenue Estimates for 1974/75 to cover the cost of repainting the infill panel units in the Junior School after reinstatement of woodwork. A further sum of £1200 should be included in the Revenue Estimates for 1975/76 for repainting Infant and Junior Schools. Internal Decoration - last decorated in 1968/69. Redecoration of 8 Classrooms, toilet accommodation, corridor and 2 staircases in the Teaching Block of the Junior School will be necessary in the financial year 1975/76 due to remedial works being carried out to horizontal cracking plus the refixing of door frames to Classrooms, making good to plaster wall finish to cracked surfaces and around door frames; probable cost of this work will be £350. Cost of internal decoration estimated at £2000. The Area Building Surveyor has been instructed to place in hand the repair of plaster wall finish and redecoration of boys' toilet on ground floor at a cost of £100. External Works - repairs are required to chain link fence (3' 6" high) along the northern boundary, estimated cost £250. Chestnut paling fence around Swimming Pool is in a dilapidated condition and requires renewal with a fence of the slatted paling variety, estimated cost £320. A small area of reseeding required adjacent to Infants School after removal of temporary classroom; cost of reinstatement £60. Repairs to footpath paving slabs along front elevation allowing for renewal of broken slabs and rebedding of remainder would cost approximately £180. Roof Repairs - during the course of inspection it was noted that the roof covering on the Assembly Hall had blistered in a number of places; although there are no roof leaks at the present time, steps should be taken to rectify this defect at an approximate cost of £150. Repairs and Renewals 1976/77 - Reinstatement of chain link fencing to west and south boundaries, probable cost £1000. Renewal of drinking fountains in Junior School, probable cost £150. Headmaster did request that consideration be given to resiting fountains from toilets to a more suitable location. New drinking fountains required because spare parts are almost unobtainable; main defect poor type of control valve'; Nov 1974
Memo from Councillor Harwood; 'Some concern is now again felt on the exterior fabric of the School, where a crack appeared outside is now begun to fall and the danger of the remaining 3 inch coating of cement can well follow. Below is a glass skylight which is in the television room. If the remainder of this cement does fall, it will obviously fall into this room. School managers wish firstly immediate action on this wall. Secondly, a meeting of a representative of your department at the School with representatives of school governors to discuss the future of the fabric and decorations'; Jun 1975
Memo from Architects to Chief Education Officer; 'My Area Building Surveyor has inspected the rooms and corridors as stated in the Head Teacher's letter (main corridor and cloakroom, children's toilets and main office [Infants]) and agreed that some decoration and plaster repair would be desirable. No financial provision has been made in the 1975/76 estimates for this work. The internal decorations are scheduled for the year 1976/77 and in view of the economic situation I think it would be better left until then'; Mar 1975
Reply to Correspondent to the Managers from County Architect; 'I set out on the attached sheet maintenance items undertaken in the 1974/75 programme and the expenditure incurred. I also attach items included in the 1975/76 estimates. You will notice that money has only been allowed for the repair and paving - in line with Council's general policy of economy this year. Your request that the replacement drinking fountains should be sited outside is noted, but it may be more satisfactory if the modern practice of paper drinking cups coupled with a drinking water supply was brought into practice at this school. Drinking fountains are invariably troublesome: it could be expensive re-siting them and would be no less liable to damage'
1974/75 Infants School: External decorations - £0; Internal decorations - £23.08; Structural repairs - £266.61; Finishes and fittings, plumbing and sanitary, Heating, Electrical - £344.28; External works - £0
1974/75 Junior School: External decorations - £0; Internal decorations - £92.70; Structural repairs (mainly defective windows) - £2220.42; Finishes and fittings, plumbing and sanitary, Heating, Electrical, External works - £1398.88
1975/76 Infants and Junior Schools: External painting - £1200; Renewal of defective window/wall units - £2500; Refix door frames and repair plaster, Remedial work to shrinkage cracks (chimney and walls), Repairs to roof over hall, Renew chainlink on north boundary, Renew drinking fountain (could be brought forward), Re-seeding, Repairs to paving - £1760; Caretaker's house external painting - £100; Internal decorations initially included in estimates were cut out as a general economy'; Mar 1975
Letter from Correspondent to the Managers to County Architect; 'The [School] Managers request that "renew drinking fountains (could be brought forward)" be done as urgently as possible, by which ever method you recommend'; Apr 1975
Letter from Correspondent to the Managers to County Architect; 'The Managers have now met again and as nothing has yet been done regarding the drinking fountains I am asked to write and note your comments and add that they are strongly opposed to fountains in the toilet because of the Health & Safety Act 1974. They insist that 2 fountains are re-sited on the wall outside the toilet block instead of repairing the 3 that are now worn out. Paper cups are not acceptable because of litter problems and the spread of water'; Jun 1975
Detailed specification for Complete External Decorations, Infant and Junior School (also for Hillcrest Special School, Dunstable); May 1975
Industrial Painting Consultants, Dunstable, were successful with their tender for the above (amount not stated); Jun 1975
Correspondent to the Managers states 'The Managers are concerned that nothing has been done since I wrote to you in Oct 1974 and now the rendering has fallen and the wall is open to the weather'; Jun 1975
Letter from Headmistress [Lower School]; 'Some considerable time ago two huts were removed from the Infant School site, and more recently two huts from the Junior School were also removed. The area of playing field occupied by all these huts is still waiting to be dug over and re-seeded'; Oct 1975
Further letter; 'We are all delighted with the staff room which looks so clean and bright that on behalf of all the staff I feel I must say thank you. I understand that the huts in the old Infant playground have been sold and are to be removed, so another problem will be solved. There is only one thing bothering me at the moment. The ex-staff room of the former Infant school is now being used as a General Assistant's room and also as a sick room. Unfortunately the only electric socket in the room is at floor level and this can prove dangerous if there is a kettle boiling and children in the room. Would it be possible to either have the existing point placed higher or better still have an extra point put in near the draining board which would eliminate having to walk about with kettles full of hot water'; Nov 1975
Further letter; 'There is a kiln in use in this school, used only by staff and securely locked when not in use. The back of the kiln has a sheet of asbestos covering it and this sheet is cracked and held on by two pieces of wire. It has been like this for some time and appears to be reasonably safe but in view of your circular ("Safety in Schools, Art & Craft") I felt that this should be reported'; May 1976
Detailed specification for Interior Decorations, School Canteen (also for Priory School Canteen, Dunstable); May 1976
Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer; 'The site originally covered by the double classroom unit removed Easter 1976 was inspected 29 Apr and found to be clear of rubble and glass, the area was again inspected on 12 May (following tarmacadam making good on playground) and was still clear of rubble, making good to grass area will be undertaken shortly by the playing field maintenance contractors. The area covered by classroom removed Aug 1975, the grass and tarmac are due to be made good at the same time as above items. At a visit on 24 May, six pieces of brick and some large stones were noted and from discussion with school staff it is assumed that this is the result of vandalism'; Jun 1976
Form BM2; 'Rain coming through staff room ceiling - only recently done'; Oct 1976
Letter from Headmistress; 'Next term I shall be moving to the new Tithe Farm Lower School, which will be formed from the amalgamation of the existing Infant and Junior Schools. I shall be using the Infant Head's room as my office, and the Infant Secretary's room as the Secretary's office, and would, therefore, be grateful if you could arrange for the Head and Secretary notices to be removed from the appropriate Junior rooms, and also the notices on the front doors. When money allows, I expect you will also be able to put up a large board at the entrance to the front gates saying that the school is Tithe Farm Lower School'; Jul 1975 [mentions previously at Thornbury]
Reply from County Architect; 'Your original request Jul 1975 has been overlooked and I regret that this has happened. Unfortunately, the question of new notice boards has been bedevilled for some time now with the proposal to develop a new Bedfordshire 'house style'. Until this scheme is finalised the provision of new name boards has been deferred. However I undertand you have rigged up a temporary notice over the existing name board, so I hope this will suffice for the time being'; Dec 1976
Form BM2; 'Leaks - Head's office; staff room; dining room'; Already done but badly leaking again. New leak in boys' toilet, old Junior School; Jan 1977
Letter from Headmistress; 'On Tuesday 5 Apr we noticed that some lead had been taken from the roof above the kitchen area of the school. We reported this to the police immediately who have been to inspect the damage and have made a report on the incident'; Apr 1977
Form BM2; Staff room and Secretary's office both leaking from ceiling; Oct 1977
Form BM2; Classroom 5 - heavy rain seeping through rotten wood in window; Staff room - ceiling repaired during holiday; leaking again; Oct 1977
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'I have been informed that when the fire alarm system was tested recently it could not be heard in the school kitchen'; Nov 1977
Further Memo; 'The Headmistress has requested a security light to be fixed at the back of the school'; Dec 1977
P N Specialist Builders Ltd, Luton, were successful with their tender for Joinery Repairs and Replacements: Heathfield Lower, Caddington; Five Oaks Middle, Caddington; Tythe Farm Lower, Houghton Regis; Hillcrest E.S.N., Dunstable; Hillborough & Thornbury (Lower), Houghton Regis; Parkfield Middle, Toddington; Toddington Fire Station; Sundon Lower, Upper Sundon; (amount not stated); Apr 1978
Letter from Headmistress; 'Realising the severe economic strictures placed on maintenance at the present time our managers are very willing to help keep the school in good decorative repair as and when necessary. We are to have some new urinals in one of the boys toilets and the managers have expressed a wish to tile the immediate surround. We have had the walls repainted on several occasions but small boys being what they are, this inevitably gets worn away after some time and the managers feel that tiles would be both more durable and more hygenic. They would therefore be pleased to hear your views on this as they are prepared either to fit the tiles should the Authority be able to provide them or even provide and fit the tiles if necessary';
Oct 1977
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'I would be pleased to supply finance from the self-help fund for the tiles and I should, therefore, be grateful for your approval for the managers to proceed with this project'; Nov 1977
Reply; 'The wall tiles referred to will be provided to the Boys' urinals when the urinals are replaced in due course. An order has been issued for these two items. The headmistress requested permission for wall tiling to be carried out by self-help in the Girls' W.C. adjacent to the Office, for which it is recommended that the 150mm x 150mm white glazed tiles start behind the door frame, along the wall behind the No 2 W.C.s returning back along the opposite wall to the door frame, the total height is from the top of the skirting to the top of the W.C. partitions'; Apr 1978
Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'The Correspondent to the Managers has written requesting that a safety rail be provided at the top of the steps to the exit gates as it is felt that this will protect the children as they go in and out of school'; Mar 1978
Reply; 'It is suggested that if parents were restricted from entering the playground in motor cars and only staff cars permitted, the problem would be minimised. However, the provision of a barrier can easily be carried out at an approximate cost of £300. No monies have been allocated in the current revenue estimates for this item'; May 1978
Letter from Headmistress; 'When I took over nearly three years ago we were promised a new name board as soon as possible. This has never materialised and the frame of the old one is falling apart and will last only a few more weeks at the most. I would be most grateful if you would see your way clear to authorising a proper name board for the entrance to the school and the managers have asked me to let you know that they fully support my request'; May 1978
Reply; 'The new standard sign board design has now been approved and an order has been placed for your sign board. When it arrives your Area Building Surveyor will be instructed to erect it as soon as possible'; Jun 1978
Otto Builders Ltd, Luton were successful with their tender for External Redecoration at Thornhill Lower, Houghton Regis Primary, Whitehead Lower, Tithe Farm Lower [all Houghton Regis] (amount not stated); Sep 1978
Letter from Chief Education Officer to County Architect; 'I have recently received a letter from the Headmistress concerning the fencing around the Nursery Unit. I understand that the fencing has been doubled in height in order to make the play area more secure, but unfortunately the one part of the fence which gives the school most concern, namely the part which borders directly onto the road, has not been raised in height and I understand that the Head was informed that this work was not to be done. I feel that it is important that this work is carried out as this is obviously a question of safety and I should be grateful if you would make arrangements, as a matter of urgency, for the height of this fence to be doubled in order to alleviate obvious problems that are now apparent'; Dec 1977;
with pen note 'Fencing project completed. Final account settled and no money available. Could it be financed from Health & Safety funds or from other resources?
Letter from Correspondent to the Managers; 'The Managers asked me to write and express their concern at the delay in rasing the boundary fence of the nursery unit. They also asked that the paling fence be replaced with iron railings as other council properties in this area'; Jun 1978
Reply from County Architect; 'I am pleased to inform you that the fencing and gates are to be raised in due course, the works have been included in a larger fencing contract which is now out to tender. When the successful tender has been accepted the contractor will be instructed to erect your fencing first as a matter of some urgency'; Oct 1978