A letter to St Paul's School

Dear Christie / Headteacher

It has taken me too long to write this letter simply to say a big thank you to the school. 

Specifically, to Felicity King for making the school available for a visit by my uncle Conrad (Con) Mountford and his sister Margaret back in March 2020 just before the Covid crisis hit.  

Con and Margaret attended the school in the 1930’s and 1940’s.  Felicity kindly agreed the visit to help me with uncle Con and his recollection of his childhood as he suffered with vascular dementia.   Over the last 10 years or so it had worsened to the point where only the very old memories still shone bright in his mind.  The school visit was a ‘must do’ if it could be done and I am so very grateful that Felicity could help. 

Whilst it was difficult on the day due to Con’s infirmity, Felicity was fantastic in ensuring we were all safe.  She helped with Con and Margaret’s recollections as we moved around the school.  It was fantastic that Con could remember the old back lane route into school (the old family house was Number 2 St Paul’s Square) and the ‘dungeon’, the old air raid shelter in the playground from the war.  Also, we found one of the remaining ‘steps’ that once upon a time connected the lanes at the back of St Paul’s Square and St Paul’s Terrace together.   Sitting on those steps as a child was one of Con’s core memories and so a great find.  Albeit a little late I would like to apologise for the Pavlovian reaction of the school children when auntie Margaret rang the school bell!  

I sadly must inform you that Conrad peacefully passed away at home on the 9th August after several more visits into hospital this year for numerous problems relating to old age.   Nonetheless, the school visit gave us lots of opportunity to talk again about his childhood in the remaining time we had together.  Not only did the visit help Con but it also rekindled memories for auntie Margaret and gave me stuff to remember too, a blessing so important now that he has gone.  It was a fantastic and memorable day.  Thank you! 

I hope that this letter finds you all in good health.  I am sure that the school will continue to give its children lots of experiences to remember and share with their future children, grandchildren, nieces and of course nephews.

With my Warmest and Kindest Regards

 

Wayne Tyssen

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