| No |
DatePosted |
FirstName |
Surname |
Message |
Contact |
| 226 | 29/06/2004 | steve | byrne | I was at Verdala 75/76 in Miss Armstrongs class. I was good friends with Mark Baxter and a lad called Simion. I seemed to spend alot of playtimes kept in, to finish off work ,with a girl who was the smallest in the year, but was very funny and we never got anything done. The same thing is now happening to my son . | |
| 225 | 24/06/2004 | francesca | cheeseman | I was at Verdala from '61-'63. My older brother Nick was at Verdala initially then went to Tal-Handaq. I don't remember any names, just the look of the school and the horrible coloured milk that was always left out in the sun and the seemingly endless coach journey to school from our flat on Balutta Bay at Sliema. I remember a female teacher who always made us move our seat on the coach as she wanted to site there! Hoping to come to reunion in 2005! Does anyone remember me? (My name is now Buxey) | |
| 224 | 19/06/2004 | Alison | Farrar (Greenaway) | I was at Verdala from 1958. I remember Commander PAINTER being the headmaster. | |
| 223 | 18/06/2004 | Rhona | Johnson | I was at Verdala and Tal Handaq 57-59. I was in Mr. Ousbey's class
I remember singing all the latest "pop songs" on the school bus. Fond Memories. | |
| 222 | 08/06/2004 | Jennifer | Wellard / Waterworth | At Verdala between 1957 and 1959 Dad was on HMS Forth, birthed in Msida Creek
Two sisters went to Tal Handaq
Lived firstly in St Julians, and then in Marshall Court, Gzira
I was in White House
Glad to say those buses are still just as much fun as before, only the worst ones have been taken off the road | |
| 221 | 07/06/2004 | Ruth | Flaherty / Coombs | My twin sister and I were at Verdala between 1956 and 1958. We plan to attend the reunion with other old Verdalans. | |
| 220 | 07/06/2004 | Yvonne | Douglas / Eggleston | Hi My brother Ian and I were at Verdala 1958-61. The last class I was in was 3A and the teacher was Mr Ouseby, who was brilliant - the Tudors remain my favourite period in History! I was in the Brownies and did ballet with Miss Rowe. It was good to see the pictures of the ballet class in Peter and the Wolf (I'm in the middle on the second row). Does anyone remember Julia Northey and 'Greensleeves'? | |
| 219 | 05/06/2004 | Sharon | Clapson / Comlay | Educated at Verdala 63-66
Class 3b miss Mulch abd Miss Rowe.
Had Mr Why for Music and spelling.
Have very happy memories of Verdala.
Have a copy of the 64-65 year book.Jeremy Thompson as an Admiral on the front cover.
Lived at Gzira and caught one of the famous buses to school each day.
Was in Drake house.
Remember the netting-loved climbing on this. Bye for now. | |
| 218 | 23/05/2004 | Michael | Walker | Hi I was at Verdala from 57-59,but have only just discovered this site.I remember some good times,and some not so good(the riots in the Mintoff troubles).Unfortunately I am terrible with names.Hoping to come to reunion and try to recall some faces,and meet some friends from Nelson(I think) | |
| 217 | 22/05/2004 | Keith | Wigglesworth | Hi, was at Verdala between '64-'66. Am 3rd from left, back row of 1966 B football team. Also there is Simon Jeffries, George Mattingley and Steve Griffiths. Remember loads about the school, Marines beating the retreat, keeping skinks in desks, marbles, the tunnels, afternoon clubs (navigation & ballet!!), naafi meal tickets, the bus rides, school nurse inspections. Fun days!! | |
| 216 | 20/05/2004 | Jane | Gaughy | My sister and I were at the school 1976 - 1978. I don't remember much, only the Pageant that was held for the Queens Silver Jubilee. I was a flower girl, and had to carry a hoop with someone else. | |
| 215 | 10/05/2004 | Andy | Godman | i was at verdala from 1973 to 1975 before going up to tal-handaq i was in 4C with mr collins i remeber the headmaster being a Lt/Cmd bond we all called james bond great site brings back some great times that i had at verdala | |
| 214 | 03/05/2004 | Bill | Rickards | As Iwas at Verdala in 38to40 then moved to St Georges until June 42 thought I was a dinosaur among you younguns butI found a 34-38 one | |
| 213 | 23/04/2004 | Marilyn | Finch | Just reading about so many aged friends. I was in 3A in 57/58 with Roy Jenkins and still have the reports which I hide from my children. I was the one that spent most of my time in the corridor for being naughty. Still in touch with Penny Cooper and remember Madeleine Knight, Anne Mintoff and Bruce Dingley. | |
| 212 | 06/04/2004 | Marilyn | X | I was at Verdala from 1957 to 1959. I started in Miss Stinton's class which was 2A. I cannot remember who my teacher was for 3A but it was a male teacher. I would like to know. I remember many names but would like to find out what they are doing now. | |
| 211 | 03/04/2004 | Lisa | Parsonage | I was at Verdala 72-75. I was in Mrs Farrugia Bells class. She was and is my favourite teacher of all time. I can rememeber the class being broken into,my brother Mickey and I found the burglary. We thought the cleaners had made a mess and tidied part of it up. When the Maltese Police came and started to fingerprint things Mickey and I worried for weeks we would be arrested. Can you remember the budgies or the plastic mats we had sandwiches on.
Can you remember the Pied Piper production or many of you may remmeber my spectacular performance of Mary in one of the local Maltese churches.Can you remember the Maltese hymn MssFB used to make us sing. Wonderful Days | |
| 210 | 12/03/2004 | Roger | Turner | Hi there ! My brother Dennis and I were at Verdala 1949-52. Great to find the site, really brought back some memories (mainly the buses). Sorry to say age has taken its toll and can now only remember a couple of classmates. Maybe finding you will stimulate the grey cells. | |
| 209 | 10/03/2004 | Celia | Andrews | I was in Malta between 1960 and 1963 and was in Mr Woodhams class at Verdalla. Have many happy memories of school, the busses to get there, the long afternoons at the beach and the overnight bbqs on the beach mainly with other naval families.It was a fantastic childhood for me, and reading all these comments has brought it all back. Do we realise how privileged we were to have experienced that life?
I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. The only 2 names I remember are Mary Walker and Leigh Andrews who both left the island before we did. | |
| 208 | 09/03/2004 | Terry | Baker | Thank you for some wonderful memories I attended Verdala 1952-53.My most vivid memories are the bus ride home and sitting on the back seat singing songs of the day with friends I can no longer put names to. | |
| 207 | 04/03/2004 | Mark | Plater | OldOppos.co.uk is a contact and reunion website for ex and serving Royal Navy. We are developing a new fundraising section for our website. Not wanting to give away to much at this time but our new program will be administered by a leading company specialising in the running of on line fundraising. Every week we receive requests for charitable help and have donated money to service charities in the past - the new OldOppos charity fundraising seemed like a great way of helping and, most importantly, providing an alternative to the profit orientated approach of other schemes. None of the money raised is passed on to OldOppos Limited. When the new fundraising section is launched I hope that all the visitors to your website will spare a few pennies in this 60th anniversary year of D Day and many other battles of WWII. | |
| 206 | 03/03/2004 | Peter | Lant | Cannot e-mail rustymagic@aol.com but I remember a car accident at sports day but it must have been 1959. | |
| 205 | 01/03/2004 | Derek | Cake | To meander through a site and find your photograph as a sailor rat in a 1958 pantomime is a sobering experience! I was a pupil from January 1957 until June 1960. My teacher, Miss Rowe was an inspiration to all, as I recall. Whilst I remember few names, my mother remembers the Chase family (twins?) the Waterworth's and the Hurst's, all from the Portsmouth area. Visiting the site has brought back many happy memories. My other claim to fame was being expelled as a prefect for fighting on the bus! (probably over a girl). My thanks to all who have put this site and the photographs together. | |
| 204 | 29/02/2004 | Linda | Edwards | I was in Verdala 1958 to 1961 enjoyed looking at all the old photos, my teacher was Miss Candy. I also was the milk monitor made sure i had the chocolate milk,I live in Australia now, but still miss the english navy life that i was brought up to.my father was on HMS Narvik anyone out there connected to that ship at the same time? | |
| 203 | 13/02/2004 | Janet | Kember (twin) | Hi to you all, remember the photo on the climbing frame of 11 sets of twins, jane and l are the 11yr olds. | |
| 202 | 04/01/2004 | Adrian | Newman | I was at Verdala from 1958 to 1962. I was one of the few non-Naval pupils, as my father was manager then of Barclays Bank in Merchant Street. I have returned to Malta on many occasions, lastly in June '03, and always visit the alma mater! On my last trip thereI took several digital photos - can email them to anyone who is interested! | |
| 201 | 04/01/2004 | Adrian | Newman | Ran out of room! Am fairly sure that the 3rd year Class 1958/9 on the site shows me at bottom left, but am ready to be corrected. Miranda Sharp has been mentioned - I remember her well. My 1st solo air trip to school in the UK was with her - her father had a private cinema in Malta to censor films, which I went to many times | |
| 200 | 24/11/2003 | Roraidh | Scott | How fantastic to see pictures of the
school after 43 years.I was at Verdala
for about a year(1959/60).Miss Rowe was
my teacher(class 3BJ).I may have been in the climbing frame picture at the top in the middle although the year does not quite correspond.I sometimes got a lift to the school bus on the back of a donkey and cart.We used to live in B'kara opposite the "Friend-to-all Bar"I enjoyed my time in Malta immeasurably.Ban yan boat trips to the Blue Grotto, Kitty Cola,paper kites, marbles,bread and tomato paste etc.
My parents described Malta as
boats & shoats, bells & smells!Coloured
buses,Sliema Creek,Wembley Ice Cream, Diving at Tigne beach - What truly happy days they were.Many thanks to the creator of this website! | |
| 199 | 02/11/2003 | Len | Peters | Great site. I was there from 55-57.I can remember Miss Vasey,Miss farrugia,and especially Miss Rowe ,Does anyone remember "Bertie Edwards"which was a big wooden bat she whacked us with.I can still feel it now.Thanks for the memories. Len | |
| 198 | 23/10/2003 | John | Vella | I am doing some research on the Vernon Club (next to Castille Place) Valletta, Malta. I would like to know when the Vernon Club was built. | |
| 197 | 05/10/2003 | Bruce | Taylor | The memories come flooding back. Thanks to those people who have put this site together. I was at Verdala from early 1955 to mid 1957, finishing in Form 3AJ - teacher William Willsher, Headmaster E. Paynter. I remember the marbles and the climbing ropes, also playing "spitfires" in the playground. Weekends were spent roller skating around Princess Flats, and swimming at Paradise Bay, Military Bay and the rafts at Tigne. The "festas" were another highlight. I now live in Sydney, Australia. | |
| 196 | 25/09/2003 | Rob | Taylor | Hi I went to Verdala between 1955-57, and have many happy memories of the bus trip there, playing on the net and marchng into assembly to some awful music - and "Onwarsd Christian Soldiers" Great to see the old pictures of the place, might add some of my own. Am now in Sydney Australia | |
| 195 | 24/09/2003 | Lindsay | McNeil / Freeston | I was born in 1950 in Portsmouth, attended Verdala from 1959 to 1961, the went to Tal Handaq. Left Malta January 1962.
Whilst at Verdala was a cat in Miss Rowes performance of Peter and the Wolf.
Oh how I wish sometimes we were all still there. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. | |
| 194 | 10/09/2003 | David | Stanford | I attended the school between 1961 and 1963. I have very (!) mixed memories of the school, but time has dulled the memories and I can recall no names. I have put a few thoughts on Friends Reunited, but suffice to say, great to see this web site, and belated apologies from me for switching the milk around before morning break so we could get the chocolate ones! | |
| 193 | 01/09/2003 | Trevor | Lock | Found this site after someone saw my school included Verdala. I only included this school after its name popped back into my head from god knows where!!!! | |
| 192 | 19/08/2003 | Jan | Gatt | i am 13 years old and from the pictures that i saw the school look likes the same that it is right now there are some few changes in buildings and the playing yard now instead of the basketball rings there are a hockey pitch. | |
| 191 | 18/07/2003 | Christopher | Faux | was in ta-handaq 1970/71 i hope to go back and have a look around i do no remember much as it be a long time now 30plus year now time dose fly any way i do remember a few things any can not wait to go back and see what the place is now | |
| 190 | 15/07/2003 | Christine | Northam-Palmer | at verdala 55 -58 best years of childhood life.Lived at tesraferrata st gzira and lourdes bldgs gzira.Many memories swimming out to raft at manoel island the men watching football on flat roof cheese pastries in valetta.Hope to return one day.Hope I won't be disappointed! | |
| 189 | 26/06/2003 | Daphne | Wye | hi i attended verdala 54/56 my name being daphne wye my sister also attended her name was rosina wye [nina] we returned to malta in 58/60 where i went to talhandaq and my sister returned to verdala. there she was in the brownies and the school quire. on the photo of the quoire dated 58 she is in the front row. as you can tell this e mailing is new to me being a late starter. | |
| 188 | 26/06/2003 | Nicola-Jayne | Chapman | I was at Verdala from the age of 6 till I was 9 (1966 - 1969), I loved it, I was in the house that was red - think it was call Nelson but not sure, I also attended the Brownies at school, met Lady Baden-Powell at the Goveners House with the Brownies. My sister Lorretta (5 years older than me)is in one of the school netball photos on this site. I remember my last teacher at school was the deputy head but I can't remember his name. Would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. Moved to Gosport, Hampshire when we left Malta, and I still live there. | |
| 187 | 24/06/2003 | Peter | Pritcoe | I was at Verdala 1934 to 1938 with Mrs Penfold , then Mr Armes and finally Sub/Lt Miles who after the war as a captain ran the Malta schools | |
| 186 | 22/06/2003 | John | Why | Thanks to Diane Perry for reminding me of the "forced tapioca feeding". I`m sure that today, if I acted like I did through my career [a very happy career], I wold be out on my ear on no time. Diane if you want to contact me please do. I remember you as a smallish, dark haired lass, with a serious attitude to life, but a cheeky smile at times.That about sums up most of us when we were young. | |
| 185 | 19/06/2003 | Fiona | McKinnon | I was in Nelson House and one of my teachers names was Miss Quick.Does anyone else remember her? | |
| 184 | 19/06/2003 | Janet | Merriman | I was at Verdala from 1952 until 1955 and at Tal Handaq from 1958 until 1961.
I well remember the trip on the bus from Silema - a long journey for a 6 year old!
I started off in the main school but at one time went to an annex which seemed a long walk from the school.
I remember Sports Day and concerts and going to the Dockyard for a party to celebrate the Coronation.
My brother, John, also went to Verdala but was ahead of me. I notice from the school magazine that he received a prize one year.
I now live in Adelaide, South Australia and through a mutual friend I met Jenny Van Rees who also went to Verdala from 1951! Small world. | |
| 183 | 19/06/2003 | Gerard | Hawkes | I was at Verdala from '52-'54 in the days of LtCdr Bellamy. The only teacher I remember was a Miss Robinson.
I was very keen on Marbles, playing on the nets, Dinky cars and going to Tigne Beach - What an adventure!!
I now live in Bishops Waltham, Hampshire.
Regards to all
Gerry | |
| 182 | 18/06/2003 | Stephen | Nicholson | I was at Verdala between January 1967 and May 1969 - the last two years in Mr Woodham's class (3b and 4aw). I was the goalkeeper in the school football team in my last year - managed by Mr Perkins - when we were undefeated in winning the league. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers me | |
| 181 | 17/06/2003 | Kelly | Henshaw (nee Hodgeon) | I was at Verdala between 1974 & 1975 as an infant. My sister Kirsti was also there. During the time there our classroom was broken into, does any one remember? I loved Verdala and have searched for ages for info on it, great site. I remember we used orange exercise books for our work, loved the books. Had to measure things in spans, does any one remember? | |
| 180 | 13/06/2003 | Lindsay | McNeil | Hi Who said school days are the best of your life? Well reading your web site they were. It is a shame I cannot remember much these days. I was in Malta 1958-1962 (born in June 1950) made me 8yrs when arriving and 12 when leaving, with two sisters, one 4 years younger and one 2 1/2 yrs older. Took my 11 plus at Verdala in 1961 and then went to Tal Handaq. What I remember is Miss Rowe, did ballet and recorders and was a cat in Peter and the Wolf, it is such a shame, browsing through the site and not being able to remember things, although it does jog the memory. My mother died when I was fifteen and I think a lot of photo's etc., were lost then. I do have photo's of the family in and around Malta but none at my schools. Have returned on holiday with my daughter and have reminisced. My father was based at Grand Harbour. I can remember wonderful times at the Harbour and the Lido. My name was Lindsay McNeil Younger sister Janine Mcneil Older sister Sandra Mcneil Have printed off the school report by P Ross of 1961. Any information you have on my years would be greatly appreciated, meanwhile I will keep visiting. | |
| 179 | 12/06/2003 | DAPHNE YVONNE | WYE | hi i attended verdala 54/56 my name being daphne wye my sister also attended her name was rosina wye [nina] we returned to malta in 58/60 where i went to talhandaq and my sister returned to verdala. there she was in the brownies and the school quire. on the photo of the quoire dated 58 she is in the front row. as you can tell this e mailing is new to me being a late starter. | |
| 178 | 10/06/2003 | steven | silvio | very good | |
| 177 | 02/06/2003 | Derick | Henry | Born KGV Floriana 1948. To Scarborough UK 1949. Back to Malta 1958 - 1961. Verdala '58/60. First, Miss McMeeking. Second, Mr Jenkins. Fond memories:- School, friends, teachers and chums. Cricket - in that heat! The Marble pitch. Heat. Football & Sports in general. The wee library hut. Shady bits. The hours. The mad bus journey with the drivers competing and us kids egging them on! That most welcome water tap on the outside of our block. Those great comics we all used to swop. Getting free entry to Mr Jenkins dress rehearsals. Not so fond memories:- The 11+. The heat. I would be delighted to hear from anyone there at the time. I went back to Malta for the very first time in 2001 - yup, 40 years later! Needless to say I visited Verdala and it looked just as I remembered it. A strange but good feeling. | |
| 176 | 25/05/2003 | Davina | Eade | 1 was at verdala 58 to 60 then onto tala han dak It has been a real trip down memory lane for me.Meny a happy memory with miss Anne Rowe as my class and ballet teacher Babes in the wood was one of our performances at corridina best friends at that time were Jennifer Tipple, Anne Mcoy and Clodagh any contact with these would just be fabulous. My maiden name was Davina Taylor | |
| 175 | 24/05/2003 | Karl | Mallia | Hello | |
| 174 | 22/05/2003 | KARL | MALLIA | jien qieghed fi klassi 1c | |
| 173 | 25/04/2003 | Neil | Bennett | HI, Such happy memories seeing some of the old pictures and reconising some of the names. Was at the school for 4 months in 75 before going to Tal Handaq. | |
| 172 | 21/04/2003 | Helen | Townsend / Griffin | At Verdala 1958-1962. Interested in next reunion, particularly if in Malta! In touch with Marilyn Stalker and Andrew Stalker. Brother Keith Griffin ex Tal Handaq. | |
| 171 | 08/04/2003 | Belinda | Hayles Gledhill | At school 1961 to 1963 | |
| 170 | 31/03/2003 | Gillian | Leadbetter / Hawkins | If anyone remembers me from 1962-64 give me a call | |
| 169 | 13/03/2003 | Fiona | Kay | Hello, I attended Verdala from 1968 to 1971. Returning to the UK when I was 8yrs. I attended school in Cheltenham on my return and emigrated to Australia with my mother in 1977. Name was Fiona McKinnon in those days, quite a thrill to see a poem I wrote 35 years ago on a website. I also think that I am in the photo of a play in late sixties as the girl in the front row right hand side bears a huge resemblance to my daugher at the same age. You never know. Great website Regards Fiona
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| 168 | 02/03/2003 | Gillian | Stanley | What wonderful memories this site invokes! I was at Verdala 1957-1960 then went on to Tal Handaq where my father was a teacher! So many names and faces I remember. Where are Morag Williamson and Gillian Crawley???????? Mr Jenkins was an inspirational teacher and I was lucky enought to be in his class for all 3 years. I am now head of a school in Hants. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me! | |
| 167 | 20/02/2003 | Keith | Woodcock | A bit of a shock seeing myself on the 1965 A Team phot...
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| 166 | 05/02/2003 | George | Readings | In Verdala 1960-62, then Tal Handaq 1962/3. As with many, enjoyed my time in Malta. Would be delighted to hear from anyone during that era. Have already contacted John Nicholas and Mr Why and received a contact from Liz Mardel. The site is an excellent idea. Thank you. | |
| 165 | 19/01/2003 | Karel | Doubleday | I would love to make contact with Ms Mitchell my infant school teacher and my friend Georgina Timms (65-68) | |
| 164 | 10/01/2003 | Stephen | Frost | Not sure what the name of school I attended in Luqua from 1957-1960 Dad was in Army so would I have come here? Do remember going home on bus with Dom Mintoffs daughter and being Toady in Wind in Willows.Also did a poem on stage Mcavity the Mystry Cat | |
| 163 | 28/12/2002 | Chris | Reynolds | I started school at Stella Maris Franciscan missionaries of mary school from 1961 to 63. I then moved to Verdala infant department in 1963. i was in form 15 the teacher was a J.M.Pitcher, i was then in form 9 in 1964 the form teachers name was Stewart. Unfortunatly we came back to England for a few years and returned to Verdala in 1968. I was in form 3C the teacher was D.P.Cleeve,i the moved to 4B the form teacher was J.M.Martin, i then moved to 4AP i think the teachers name was Perkins. I had a great time before going on to Tal Handaq. | |
| 162 | 21/12/2002 | Linda | Murphy | I would love to hear from anyone who was in the juniors from '74-77 when it closed. I had so many happy times Lin
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| 161 | 08/12/2002 | Nigel | Allfrey | Hi the picture with the Jellyfish nominally as Pied Piper is actually the By the Wind SAilor Jelly Fish Dancers. I have their names and the whole script of the play if anyone is interested (I played Sam, my sister, Lindy a Pastel Shrimp! | |
| 160 | 29/11/2002 | Marie | De lacy | Anybody know Susan....that went to Verdala 1960-1963 age 5-10 years. Dad worked in the Civil Service.
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| 159 | 27/11/2002 | Gillian | Leadbeatter(Hawkins) | I was at Verdala '62-'64 aged 8, my brother Peter was an infant there briefly, and my sister Susan was at Tal Handaq. We lived at 11b Ghar-id-dud St in Sliema. My dad was the dockmaster of the floating dock. I well remember the warm, oddly flavoured milk at break times, swimming races and climbing the nets. I loved Malta and have been back 5 times,I am an avid diver. Swimming at Tigne lido and Paradise bay were wonderful. Thanks for the web site. So many happy memories of being chaperone to my teen-aged sister as she hung out with the boys, listening to the juke-box outside Tante Palmiers on Sliema front. I blame her for my love of rock-n-roll. Does anyone remember Kevin Wolfe (my first love) or Nigel Phillips? have a good time on the 30th wish I could be there. | |
| 158 | 27/11/2002 | David | Gamble | I was at Verdala schoolin the fifties. All I remember was the Headteacher Commander Jordan and the large hall. I think I remember a boy called Pengally. I think his first name was Roger. I cannot make the reunion on Saturday but would be pleased to hear from you as to how it wemt and if anybody remembers me!!! | |
| 157 | 25/11/2002 | Ruth | Coombs | My twin sister Brenda and I were in the Ditch between the years 56 and 58. I have a photo of us with classmates and a sailor called Bill Bailey! I remember the sailors were very nice, they bought us Coka Colas. We had to take it in turns to make tea for the teachers in the tea room! I remember vividly playing jacks and setting up marble shies at lunch time. Happy days! | |
| 156 | 24/11/2002 | Francine | Billet | I was at Verdala in Miss Candy's class from 1957-59.Brother Jim was at Tal-Handaq. We lived off of St Julian's Court opposite the dockyard club. My friends were Pamela Salmon..Elen Gower..Jim's friends were Barry Gulleck..and David Tucker. This brings back so many memories Thanks | |
| 155 | 22/11/2002 | Ralph | Guy | What a surprise this site has been . Was at Verdala 58-60 ish then one year Tal Handaq. Names that spring to mind Miss Candy, Peter Fuller . A husband and wife team of teachers Hobson? Dobson? Was in love with Judy Nixon the lead in "Pied Piper" although shhe didn't know. Was in the chorus of Princesss Zara ? Older sibling went to Tal Handaq ,Jennifer Guy . Any one remember either one of us we'd like to hear. | |
| 154 | 21/11/2002 | Amanda | Rudkin | I was at Verdala '65 to '67/'68. I was 6 when I first arrived in Malta. I remember the school very well, steep hill up to the main grounds, the battered buses, watching shinty matches, playing marbles and one of my teachers Mrs Harkess and two best friends -Helen and Jane. I know Helen came from a large naval family. Does anyone remember the blue Naffi dinner tickets and the awful green pea soup served in white mugs that we were made to drink - only compensation was delicious fish and chips on Fridays! Do you remember the rafts off some of the beaches that used to get crowded and we all would run in unison from side to side to see how far we could tip them over? I was there during World Cup and getting free World Cup Willy badges from bars of nougat. I also remember lots of american sailors and their huge BBQs on the beaches - it all felt just so exotic. Does anyone remember the Reucroft family (Robin, Janice, Amanda, Simon and Peter)? | |
| 153 | 18/11/2002 | Nicola | Chapman | I would love to be in contact with anyone who was at school between 1966 to 1969 (I was 6 till 9 years old). I do not have a very good memory but I do remember going to Brownies at school, being in the deputy heads (I think his name was Mr Ross)class in 1969. I also attended the local dancing classes with many girls from school, the teachers twin boys also attended. I also remeber going to Pictures and roller skating on a saturday morning. My best friend at school was called Trudy Wells, she left in 1968 (I would love to be able to contact her but so far I have been unable). If you remember me please email me I would love to hear from you. | |
| 152 | 17/11/2002 | Roberta | Lowe / Murdoch | This site brings back some wonderful memories. I attended Verdala from 1959-1961 finishing in 4BJ. This class was taught by Miss Rowe; a great teacher. I remember Patricia Cracknell (with whom I lost touch with in the 1970s) and Elizabeth Bingley.Ah!Happy days | |
| 151 | 16/11/2002 | Pauline | Hargreaves | I am just learning how to do this and it is a slow process! I have been in touchwith the Headmaster of the present school Joe Huber and he has sent me some photos of the school. I was in Malta in July and September of this year - it has changed a bit!!!!Looking forward to the 30th.
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| 150 | 13/11/2002 | Douglas | Green | Attended Verdala School 1967-1970,Hawkins House.Broke my elbow falling off the climbing frame;spent a few days in Bighi Hospital. Races between school buses were fantastic!The Maltese only drive in the shade!Happy days. Won the 100 yards & sack race at sports day 1968. | |
| 149 | 08/11/2002 | Steve | Gwilliam | atended calcarra nursery, 1964-66, then verdala, 1971-72.Great school , so many happy memories. | |
| 148 | 05/11/2002 | Janice | Smith (nee Waite) | attended Verdala from 1964 - 1966 - don't know if I'm going to make the reunion, but will certainly try!!! | |
| 147 | 04/11/2002 | Peter | Miles | I am the son of the late Instructor Captain A.H. Miles Headmaster of the School from 1946, and was a pupil at Verdala at the age of seven in 1939 Good luck for the reunion which I will not be attending. Would you like a photograph of Princess Elizabeth's visit in 1951 ? | |
| 146 | 03/11/2002 | Adrian | Baker | I was at Verdala in 1954/55, my father serving as captain of RFA Eddycliff. I'm not sure which class I was in nor do I have strong recollections of class mates. I do remember however woodwork classes held in the dockyard to where we had to walk once a week. On visiting Malta in 1990 I found the school and took a photo of the old iron schoolgates rusty and neglegted but still carrying the title. Would be happy to hear from anyone who knew me. King regards Adrian
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| 145 | 29/10/2002 | Andrew | McLeod | What a wonderful and nostalgic experience - thanks to the site organisers.
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| 144 | 23/10/2002 | Trevor | Barter | It seams so long ago, but great to read the description of the visit....brings it all back. they say you remember the good times, i certainly remember Mr Woodhams and the steep hill. How about the water fights between the buses at the end of term? | |
| 143 | 12/10/2002 | Dianne | Kruczek | I was at Verdala 1964 - 66, Dianne Cooley & brother John. I remember Mr Ouseby & Mr Woodhams. Have enjoyed the site, and reminiscing! Found a surprise pic of me on the Brownie photo! I remember Christiane and Susan Withers! Well done on excellent site! | |
| 142 | 11/10/2002 | Madeleine | Branson (nee Pickett) | At Verdala 1958 - 1960. One of my teachers was Miss Batty but I'm afraid I can't remember my classmates names. I went to ballet classes and was a 'cloud' in something! Well I was quite young! Went back to Malta in August this year and with a sixth sense managed to find the school - I was surprised and very delighted, finding first the driveway and the circular bit at the top leading onto the playground - just like it used to be but with a couple of extra buildings. Hope to attend the reunion, along with a work colleague who I discovered also attended Verdale 1959-61 Phil North. Lots of lovely memories. | |
| 141 | 07/10/2002 | Carl | Eves | Went to Verdala between 1974 - 76. Had a brilliant time. Those photos of the school they brought back so many memories. I spent ages showing my kids where I used to play marbles,had sports day, my classrooms and where i had my first fight etc. Excellent site keep up the good work. | |
| 140 | 29/09/2002 | Madeleine | Adams | nee Madeleine Knight Would like to trace Marion Ellis, Julia Dobson, Anne Mintoff, Alison Greenaway Verdala 1956/9. Coming to reunion in Sussex? | |
| 139 | 27/09/2002 | Gill | Roberts(Stanley) | | |
| 138 | 25/09/2002 | Jenny | van Riet | Attended Verdala 1951 to 1953 as Jennifer Smith. My teachers in 1952 were Jean Seaward and Dinah Jessup. I now live in Australia. Have many fond memories of Malta/swimming/bus trips to school/boat trips at weekends etc. | |
| 137 | 22/09/2002 | Helen | Parker | I was born in Malta in '58. Went to Verdala '63-'69. My dad taught at Tal Handaq "55-'69. I was the tallest kid at Verdala with bright red hair. My sister Sadie was there too (3 yrs. older) What a great experience! I remember not so fondly warm goats milk, and hot sweaty bus seats, and so fondly,the assemblies, the pantomimes, marbles, sports day, pomegaranites by the bell tower, the Marsa club and fabulous swimming! Would love to hear from anyone that knew the Parkers...we were there 14 years! | |
| 136 | 19/09/2002 | Mary | Walker | I was at Verdala from 61-63. Mr Woodhams, as I see from others, was an amazing influence on me. A very dear man. I arrived having been at a 'dame' school and had learnt 'joined-up' writing as opposed to 'printing'. My hand writing was dreadful. However, he supported me strongly and when I won the 'progress' prize, he came especially to my home and presented it to me in a 'grand' ceremony in front of my parents, as I had been'off' school with a bug. I was in St.Vincent, and very proud too. I remember playing Cowboys and Indians in the playground, with the girls being the horses and the boys holding our sashes as reins I think my rider was called Paul, we were Indians I think. I also still feel guilty about one young boy, called Anthony (was it Bewley ?), when I was in Mrs Moore's class, he was always in trouble for untidy work etc, one sock up- one sock down, a real boy !! He 'fell in love' with me and sent me a beautiful love letter, very neat, and no mistakes etc and I still can't bear to think of it , I tore it up in front of his face ! All the work that represented ! What a little madam ! if you read this Anthony, I am really sorry. I met up with Vanessa Wright about 27 years ago in Alverstoke. We attended ballet together, I still have a photo of myself as a 'snowflake' in the Nutcracker in my sitting room. This site is lovely and stirs some lovely memories. very best wishes to all. | |
| 135 | 19/09/2002 | stephen | nicholson | Since I received the email inviting me to the reunion in November, I have been on this site solidly. What a fantastic site - takes me back to the island that I remember with nothing but pleasure. I was at Verdala from January 1967 to May 1969. I was in St Vincent House. I remember being in Mr Woodham's class (4AW) in my last year. I remember being in the cubs where my mum was 'Hathi'. I remember being in the school football team (in goal) when we won the league under the guidance of Mr Perkins. Some of the names I recall are David Bancroft, Andre, Stephen Why, Paddy Boyle, John McIntyre, David Harkiss, Helen Tapson, Sue Smith, Madeline (Court?) and Stephen Foote. I remember 'Speedo' the driver on the bus home to St Julians. Anyone remember me? See you in NOVEMBER | |
| 134 | 18/09/2002 | Helen | Birchenough | At Verdala 1972-75. Teachers Miss Keyhoe,Miss Wilde and Miss Johnson. Remember Verdala as wonderful time. Does anyone remember singing Joseph musical? Now a teacher near Wolverhampton. | |
| 133 | 18/09/2002 | Helen | Birchenough | Apologies for mistake in e mail address. This is correct version! | |
| 132 | 18/09/2002 | Hazel | Cox | So very many happy memories - this is a dream come true for me. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Anyone out there who played for the netball team, 1967? - we won everything! Well done on a fantastic site! | |
| 131 | 18/09/2002 | stephen | Nicky | Hello to anyone who remembers me. I was at Verdala from January 1967 to May 1969. I was in the school football team (in goal) in my last year when we won the league. Some of the names I remember are David Bancroft, Patrick Boyle, John McIntyre, Stephen Foote, Stephen Why, David Harkiss Helen Tapson and Susan Smith who - if my memory serves me right - got the same bus as me to school from St Julians (number 34). I loved my time at Verdala and have returned to Malta once on holiday to look up the old place. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. | |
| 130 | 17/09/2002 | Peter | Sorensen | Great to see you I looked unsuccesssfully for a site last year! I was at Verdala in 1966-69, Drake House. I have some of the annual school publications coving that period. I also married a fellow ex-pupil. | |
| 129 | 17/09/2002 | Pam | Sorensen (nee Cox) | Hi - just so pleased to find there is a website for ex Verdala pupils - so many good memories have been rekindled! | |
| 128 | 14/09/2002 | Paul | Cawdron | Many fantastic memories rekindled when i found this site. Was at verdala 64-65 (I think!). Mr Woodhams was class teacher and I remember his science lesson creating a vacuum in a gallon can! We all sat spellbound as the can collapsed on itself!! Came second in relay race and still got certificate to prove it! Friends I remember are Christopher Cumper (we lived next door to each other in Birzebugia) and Chris I'll e mail you, Paul Gorman, sorry getting old and remember faces but not too many of the names. Does anyone remember me???? | |
| 127 | 13/09/2002 | Ivy | Jackson / Eaton | Part two) In 1957 the school had an extensive H.M.I. inspection. Quote from report - "The Infant Dept. of the R.N. School, Verdala, compares with the best infant schools in G.B." Thanks go to the dedicated staff who worked so hard. After this report the schemes of work for the school became blueprints for service schools in the Mediterranean Area. The school was subject to "Captain's Rounds" like any other naval establishment. I remember a criticism by a medical officer while on the rounds asking "Must the children sit round tables in groups - why not in straight lines where there'd be much less chance of droplet infection"!! So much for his knowledge of educational needs! My staff included - Alma Batty (Smith), May Smedley, Val Porter, Margaret Robinson, Nan Brittlebank, Betty Skinner, Pam Lee, Kathy Burke, Doreen Storey (Hart), Margaret Harris, Shirley Harris and Margaret Grant. Greetings to them and the children. I hope to be able to attend the reunion and look forward to meeting former staff and pupils again. | |