Former pupils and teachers look back on school days in new book

THEY are always said to be the best days of your life.

And the recollections of more than 50 former pupils and teachers have been documented in a new history book to give a detailed account of whether their own school days can lay claim to this accolade.

The book has been written by local historian Van Wilson and published by the York Archaeological Trust to mark the 25th anniversary of the city’s secondary schools becoming fully comprehensive.

In September 1985, York’s grammar and secondary modern schools were finally closed, giving way to nine comprehensive schools.

The new book, called The Best Years of Our Lives? Secondary Education in York 1900-1985, records the changing experience of teachers and pupils in both the state and private sectors in York during the period.

It turns the clock back to a time of gymslips and navy knickers, milk monitors and ink wells, as well as the embarrassment of the communal shower and swimming lessons.

The book is available from local book stores priced 9.99, and can be ordered from Christine Kyriacou at the York Archaeological Trust, 47, Aldwark, York, YO1 7BX, for 11.99, including postage and packing.

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