BHS Prefects 1953

Having racked my brains for hours and hours trying to think of a sparkling, witty opening and having found the poor, overworked grey cells not up to it, lo—it just opens.

The purpose of these notes is to let the school know what the Prefects have been doing all the year, or at least a little of what they have been trying to do.

To begin with, the social side of life: We would like to note that the lower school this year have had the same number of socials as the upper school, which brings the situation back to what it was in the days when the gym. was big enough to hold both upper and lower schools. We hope the lower school appreciates this fact, and from the racket which proceeded from their socials we think they do.

Another social aspect of our life is the Pres’. tea. That interesting institution is what keeps us alive from month to month, and gives the wits among us (the whole 14) a chance to air their latest fiasco in the way of humour. We have to be kind, of course, so we all laugh uproariously without the faintest idea of what’s funny—and usually nothing is.

To come back to a comparatively serious theme. This year has been quite a busy one, if you count study for that thing called the Leaving among our activities. We have tried to regulate the movements of the school a little, and although our efforts were rather spasmodic, I think we saved a few of the rooms from utter ruin. Many of the students could be much more helpful in this respect and stay out of a room once they have been asked. It seems that once is not enough to break through the solid ivory. It has to be hammered.

Another measure we revived this year is the Pound—and I scarcely think I need explain that. The same comment on ivory skulls unfortunately applies here also, and the long suffering pound pre’s’ are to be commended on their patience. One good point about it (as far as we’re concerned, anyway) is the revenue it brings in quite a steady income, thanks to the old incorrigibles who will keep letting their books stray.

As far as general discipline around the school goes, we feel that it has been of quite a high level. The girl pre’s are especially pleased to note the number of students in full uniform. This greatly adds to the tone of the school, especially after school hours in the town, and we hope things will continue this way. Then there is the hackneyed remark about the stairs. If the architect had meant you to go up them three at a time he would have built them much bigger than they are. Also, there are liable to be a few broken necks if people insist on coming down four at a time, and as spilt blood is very unsightly, we wish people would take them at a more sedate pace.

A final remark concerning the library would be in order, I think. Please remember it is a place for study, and act accordingly. Before you turn to say something to your neighbour, have a look round to see if any fifth year is gnashing (his, her, take your pick) teeth over some hopelessly-involved problem, and then let your better nature come to the fore—don’t say whatever it was you were going to.

To close, I would like to thank the staff for all the assistance they have given us this year, and especially Miss Burgess for all the help she has given the girls. We hope next year’s pre’s. will have as much fun as we have (though, just quietly, I don’t think it’s possible). Anyway, we wish them and the school the best of luck for the coming year.

'Prefect Notes' from the 1953 edition of the Kingia magazine.