St. Kenelm's C.E. Primary School, Romsley
Centenary Celebrations
1915 – 2015
Memories of Mrs Maureen Burns Headteacher - 1988 to 1994
I was appointed as head teacher of St Kenelm's School at the tender age of 34. It was my first headship and I felt quite a weight of responsibility and expectation. There were two other teachers at the school, Edna Powell and Irene Hutchinson. who were two older experienced teachers. Initially they didn't take kindly to some of the new ideas I introduced but I think I can say that by the time I left we had become close colleagues with respect for each other. Looking back there were some decisions I probably wouldn't make now! I didn't quite realise what a storm I would cause when I suggested the annual trip to Weston Super Mare should be replaced by something more 'educational.'
My abiding memory of the school is the wonderful support I received from the community. Rev Clarke and Rev Copley provided guidance from the Church. Ruth Harper was a constant source of encouragement and inspiration and I would especially like to mention Margaret Bayfield who worked tirelessly for the playgroup and was always so gracious and professional.
At the time I was appointed teachers weren't bound by the bureaucracy that is in place now. Targets and OFSTED weren't in place but I still feel the children had a good education.
I look back and think of some sad times – the loss of the Hagley RC pupils in the motorway accident, but my overriding memories are happy, positive ones. I went on to another six headships but I would say that no other school has quite captured the community spirit and support that was so evident at St Kenelm's.