Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
MAGAZINE
2020
BÖU OBJECTIVES
To champion the legacy of Martina Bergman Österberg. To provide opportunities for members to share, support and promote the social and educational values espoused by
Martina Bergman Österberg. To promote and ensure the storage, protection and
development of The Österberg Collection.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
Regular communication to keep up-to-date with news, views and events (including receipt of an annual magazine
and newsletter). Free access to an excellent historical archive of worldwide interest. Being part of a community of loyal and dedicated members. Opportunities to rekindle friendships and remember great times.
MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
Full Members: those trained at The Bergman Österberg
Physical Training College (later known as Dartford College
of Physical Education, Dartford College of Education, Thames Polytechnic, University of Greenwich) and former members of staff. Associate Members: those not eligible for Full Membership, but sympathetic to the BÖU Objectives (stated above). Honorary Life Members: those elected at an AGM for outstanding service to the Bergman Österberg Union.
1
CONTENTS
Page No
BÖU Executive Committee 2020/2021 2
Letter from the Chair 3
Agenda for the AGM 2020 5
Minutes of the AGM 2019 6
The Österberg Collection Visitor Centre 20
University of Greenwich Chancellor’s Dinner 2019 26
Gillian Aitkenhead MBE, DL, HonDEd 27
Retirement of Professor David Maguire 28
University of Greenwich Carol Service 2019 29
101 years on - the Degree achieved at last 30
Obituaries:
Dorothy Devitt (Crowther 1940) 35
Sheila Middleton (Toplis 1947) 36
Marge Millar (1970) 37
News from Former Students 39
Book Review:
“Forty Plus ‘one’ Glorious Years”, by Dr. Ida Webb 42
From The Österberg Collection 100 Years Ago 44
Notes from the Registrar 49
BÖU Benefit Fund Statement of Accounts 2019 50
BÖU Statement of Accounts 2019 51
Diploma Brooches & Bespoke Earrings 52
2
BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2020/2021
Patron: Ann Brightwell MBE
President: Dr. Jo Harris
Vice President: Peter Boreham
Officers: Chair (& Alliances): Anne Stuart 4 Copperpenny Drive
Hempstead, Gillingham
Kent, ME7 3DT
Hon. Secretary: Vacant
Hon. Treasurer: Alan Gamwell Bergman Österberg Union
North Kent College, Oakfield Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2JT
Committee Members:
Toni Cutler [email protected]
Christobel Elliott (Registrar) [email protected]
8 Ingatestone Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 9AL.
Jackie Gibbs (Funding & Marketing) [email protected]
Jan Grimsey (Reunion Organiser) [email protected]
Rosemary Moon (Curator & Honorary Member of the BÖU)
The Österberg Collection
North Kent College, Oakfield Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2JT
Co-opted Committee Members:
Sandra Applegate [email protected]
Susan Beard [email protected]
Ken Challinor [email protected]
Jenny Haynes (Benefit Fund Administrator)
Jane Marchant [email protected]
3
Letter from the Chair Dear Friends,
It is with some sadness that I sit down to write what will be my final letter to you as Chair of the BÖU. I have decided that it is time for me to stand down, and will do so in September 2020 at the AGM. I have been on the committee since 1994 and I took over as Chairman from Rosemary Fisher in 1997. The nature of the work we do has changed a great deal over the years and I am grateful to have had the honour of working on your behalf and to have been involved in so many exciting, interesting and challenging events. I have been very lucky to have worked on the Executive Committee with many dedicated and loyal members in the last 26 years. It is now time for someone else to take us into the next stage of the life and work of the BÖU and I look forward to seeing how things evolve.
This year we have faced our usual mixture of challenges, regular events and special occasions, which are reported fully in this magazine.
We have maintained our excellent links with Dartford Borough Council and are fortunate to have such strong support from them. By the time you read this the brown heritage signs for the Ӧsterberg Collection will be in place at either end of Oakfield Lane, and discussions are being held about the idea of a sign at Dartford railway station celebrating Dartford as the home of netball. Some of us attended the excellent annual Dartford Festival in the summer and we had a stall this year thanks to the marketing department at North Kent College.
We have had contact recently with a lecturer at the GIH (the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences) which is the successor to the original institution in Stockholm founded by Per Henrik Ling in 1813 and where Madame Österberg trained. She is hoping to set up a ceremony to unveil a plaque at the University similar to the one on Kingsfield. We are liaising with her and Dartford Borough Council and hope that some of us will be able to attend the event.
We celebrated the official opening of the Visitor Centre and our new rooms in July, and the Ӧsterberg Collection team have since been able to get back to the vital work of cataloguing and digitising the Collection. The new wall vinyl on the side of the Centre is a very striking visual reminder of Madame’s life and work as you walk onto the site, and has been much commented on.
4
We have continued our close links with University of Greenwich and members of the committee have attended the Chancellor’s dinner in July, Gill Aitkenhead’s Honorary Doctorate degree ceremony in October, the Vice Chancellor David Maguire’s retirement event in November and the annual Carol Service in December. At the latter we were delighted to be able to meet the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Jane Harrington, and hope to forge a close relationship with her in the future.
Jackie Gibbs, our new Vice-Chair (ratified at the AGM) has been working hard on funding and marketing and we are now members of the Sporting Heritage organisation which gives us a much bigger platform to work from. Jackie has also been working on applying for grants and planning for possible BÖU events in the future.
Those of you who were present at the AGM will know that the Open Discussion on the future of the BÖU was very wide ranging, helpful and positive. Your Executive Committee were given a very clear mandate by members to focus on succession planning for the BÖU, including the Ӧsterberg Collection. We have already begun this vital work and will be reporting on progress during the year.
You will know from the last magazine and newsletter that we still have some Committee posts that need to be filled. These are: Chair, Secretary and Magazine/Newsletter editor. Dr. Jo Harris has been working on new job descriptions for these posts which will be available in due course. I would urge you to consider joining us at this exciting time of change; I anticipate that our working methods will be very different in some areas from now on and I really hope that some of you will be interested enough to want to join us as we move into the next phase of our existence.
Finally my thanks go as ever to the dedicated members of your Executive Committee who work so hard on your behalf ,and to North Kent College, Dartford Borough Council and University of Greenwich for their continued support for the BÖU. I wish you all the best for the remainder of 2020 and hope you enjoy reading this year’s magazine. And don’t forget this year’s reunion on Saturday 5th September!
Anne Stuart
5
THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE
BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
Saturday 5th September 2019, 11.00am
at North Kent College, Dartford
AGENDA
1. Apologies for absence
2. President’s remarks
3. Minutes of the 2019 AGM (to be found in the 2020 magazine)
4. Matters arising
5. Reports
a) Chair b) Secretary
c) Treasurer d) Benefit Fund Administrator e) Registrar f) Österberg Collection Curator
6. Election of the Executive Committee
Officers: Chair (& Alliances) A. Stuart** Vice-Chair (& Funding/Marketing) Jackie Gibbs
Secretary Vacant Hon. Treasurer Alan Gamwell
Committee Members
T. Cutler* Christobel Elliott* (Registrar) J. Grimsey* (Reunion Organiser) R. Moon* (Curator & Honorary Member of the BÖU)
** Retiring * Due to retire but willing to stand again
Nominations for the Committee should be sent by 31st August 2020 to : [email protected]
7. Appointment of Independent Examiner
THERE WILL BE AN OPEN DISCUSSION AFTER THE MEETING
6
BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
UNCONFIRMED MINUTES OF THE A.G.M. HELD ON 7TH SEPTEMBER 2019 AT DARTFORD
PRESENT: The following members, former students and friends were present: Anne Stuart, Sue Beard, Jane Marchant, Gill Mason, Jenny Kosky, Jeni Barker, Janet Lee, Shirley Reynolds, Hazel Chapman, Peter Boreham, Susan Hayes, Maureen Kenney, Jackie Gibbs, Wendy Keen, Cheri Class, Sarah Kite, Meriel Sexton, Roger Barton, Brenda Barton, Sue Hills, Chris Chilcott, Ruth Wagstaffe, Lynn Willert, Anne Roberts, Hilary Shanks, Pat Chatters, Wendy Morris, Ann Munns, Jay Brooks, Martin Smith, Gwen Seabrook Smith, Sarah Decent, Lynn Key, Rosemary Moon, Alan Gamwell, Ann Brown, Norma Izzard, Margaret Cowley, Sandra Applegate, Linda Milton, Pauline Barnes, Michele Verroken, Joan Mills, Christobel Elliott, Margaret Kukoyi, Hilary Gunnell, Jan Grimsey.
APOLOGIES: for absence were received from: Dr. Jo Harris, Ann Brightwell, Jill Ellis, Ken Challinor, Gill Aitkenhead, Toni Cutler, Cath Martineau, Christina Deane, Ro Jackson, Judy Herten, Dr. Ida Webb, Professor Jennifer Hargreaves, Carole Bonner, Helen Walker, Christine Händler-Eaton, Elaine Davies, Migs Trimmingham, Felicity Holloway, Pamela Read, Pam Dear, Kim Stafford, Ruth Brooks, Lesley Tipler, Gill Metcalfe, Lesley Collischon, Ros Nash, Jeani Hunter, Susan Dalton, Sheila Cutler, Val Thompson, Sandy Slack, Judy Smith, Meinir Heilbrun, Cynthia Williamson, Margaret Angus, Sue Gall, Vera Gjerdrum, Wendy Hurworth, Stephanie Peacock, Kit Adlington, Susan Garland, Dorothy Leigh, Val Payne, Alison Stockley, June Holloway, Lynn Down, Ronnie Harkness, Lesley Fraser, Yvonne Goodwin, Sarah Smith, Cathy Hickey, Rita Shackleton.
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS: Dr. Jo Harris (read by Peter Boreham).
Dear Friends,
I would like to extend a warm welcome to our 2019 AGM and reunion. Thank you all for coming today and for your support during the year. I very much hope that you enjoy your return to Dartford (especially those who are returning for the first time in a long time!) and that you are able to make the most of this opportunity to rekindle friendships and remember great times (which is one of many benefits of being a member of the BÖU).
Looking back over the past 12 months, on top of the usual business of the
7
BÖU committee, I would like to outline a few additional major events and issues that were dealt with by the committee. I will keep this concise as I know you will hear more about them in later reports.
Firstly, there was the third and final honorary degree ceremony at the University of Greenwich in October 2018 which once again proved to be a joyous and emotional occasion for all involved. It was wonderful to have the achievements of our alumni acknowledged and celebrated in this way and for special recognition for the tireless and impressive work of Michele Verroken. The award of honorary degrees to Dartford College alumni represents a great achievement in the life of the BÖU and I would like to acknowledge the extensive work that went on behind the scenes to make this happen.
A second key issue that needed addressing during the past year was moving the entire Archive – now renamed the Österberg Collection - to a new location within the College. This was masterminded by Rosemary Moon and efficiently executed over a relatively short period of time. We are indebted to Rosemary, Anne and Peter plus valuable members of the Archive team for making this achievement possible. I am sure that you will marvel at the Collection when you see it today.
I am hoping that some of you saw the Michael Portillo ‘Great British Railway Journeys’ programme on TV earlier this year which featured the story of Madame Bergman Österberg, the creation of the gym slip and the home of netball. For those who saw it, I am sure you will agree that Anne did a tremendous job in ensuring that the programme championed the legacy of Madame which is one of the key objectives of the BÖU.
It was also great to see the tremendous following for the England Women ’s Netball team at the recent World Cup in Liverpool. The rising profile of this vibrant sport is especially heartwarming given that the game of netball was invented at Dartford.
Just from this short summary, it is clear that the BÖU committee has been working extremely hard during the past 12 months to meet its objectives. On your behalf, I would like to thank all members of the committee. In particular, I would like to applaud Anne Stuart for her sage leadership, dedication to the cause, great sense of humour, and advanced networking and recently-demonstrated ‘TV presentation’ skills, all of which have helped to secure many long lasting friends of the BÖU.
I am now pleased to hand over to Anne and to wish you all an interesting and enjoyable day and a healthy, active and fulfilling remainder of 2019 and 2020.
8
MINUTES OF THE 2019 AGM
These were signed by Anne Stuart as a correct record of the 2018 AGM
MATTERS ARISING
There were no matters arising from the minutes of the 2018 AGM.
CHAIR’S REPORT
Thank you very much Jo. I know we are sorry Jo cannot be with us but you will be pleased to know that she is at a European conference in Hamburg this weekend, leading a seminar and doing a presentation. This is a result of her book “Promoting Active Lifestyles”. We are very proud of her and all she has achieved! Our Patron Ann Brightwell is very sorry not to be with us and sends us her very best for a good reunion.
I should like to add my own warm welcome to you all today. It is lovely to see so many of you here. We have a number of guests again with us for lunch later and I will introduce them then.
Jo has mentioned the major events in the life of the BÖU during the past year and I echo her words. I am very proud of all your committee has achieved in that time. We have indeed had a very busy few years! You may well have noticed how much there is about netball in the media now, with the great British Railway journeys programme and the netball World Cup, and Madame was even mentioned in a Radio Times article “All hail the trail blazers” in the week 13th to 19th of July 2019.
I will take you through some details of developments and activities which have happened and are not reported in the magazine.
Our cordial relationship with the University of Greenwich continues and several of the committee are now regularly attending their events. On 15 May, we had a visit to the Collection from Mary Davies, the new Head of Alumni and Development, and Jonathan Seal, her colleague. We followed this up with a further meeting on 9 August and are very positive and optimistic about some new ideas which will further enhance our future relationships. These include joint social events for our members as well as help with IT, helping us to create links with other similar organisations and finances, such as applying for grants.
Peter Boreham, Christobel Elliott, Michele Verroken and I attended the Chancellor’s dinner on 16 July in the newly refurbished Painted Hall at the Royal Naval College. I was able to introduce myself to the new Chancellor, Lord Boateng and invite him to come and see the Collection. He said he had three days free between then and Christmas so I don’t think he’ll be coming to see us very soon!
9
We are continuing our links with the PE and Sports department at Avery Hill and the BÖU PE award winner will be joining us for lunch and will talk about her study. This year’s winner is Jennifer Rutt who gained a First class honours degree and is going on to do teacher training. She gained 82% for her study and her supervisor said it was one of the best research projects he has seen in his 12-year career. The title is:
“The exploration of the hegemonic masculine nature of football hooliganism being responsible for the exclusion of female participants.” We look forward to hearing her talk about it!
Dartford Borough Council have continued to be extremely supportive this year, in particular Ann Allen, Patsy Thurlow and Jeremy Kite, the leader of the council. We were delighted when they all kept their seats in the local elections in May and look forward to continuing to work with them. For the first time we had representation at the Dartford Festival weekend 13/14 August thanks to the North Kent marketing department who made it part of their stall. Our thanks go to Sarah West who organised it for us. She is an ex-pupil of mine so was trained in the Dartford style! The festival is quite an event and I would urge anyone who hasn’t yet been to go next year.
At the Festival I was able to talk to Gareth Johnson, MP for Dartford and Jeremy Kite regarding the future of Kingsfield. Nothing official has yet happened, but there is a possibility that Bellway will make a second submission for planning permission on the site, taking into account all the issues that prevented Dartford Borough Council from granting permission the first time. Whilst it would mean tremendous change, it would save Kingsfield and that has to be a good thing. Change is inevitable and we would rather see Kingsfield turned into apartments than be allowed to fall apart and have to be pulled down. We will keep you informed of any developments as soon as we know them.
I hope you have all seen the magnificent wall vinyl on the side of our lovely new Visitor Centre?! We are delighted with our new accommodation and confident that we now have security of tenure for the next few years at least. The college has been extremely kind and generous and consider us to be a very important part of their heritage and also of the current organisation. The college funded the refurbishment of the Visitor Centre and also the refurbishment of a classroom and offices for us. Their generosity means that we do not have to pay for Wi-Fi, or regular use of the rooms. Our thanks go to David Gleed, Lawrence Jenkins and their very supportive and helpful staff.
The marketing department under Claire Shearwood Burton, in liaison with Jackie Gibbs, helped us to buy new merchandise for the shop and also designed the wall vinyl and the “QR code” information panels which you will
10
see round the site. They used images and information from the Collection, supplied by Rosemary, Alan and me, and they have done a tremendous job. Our thanks go to Claire, Sarah and Jordan Bonner for all their help and support.
I must also mention again here the tremendous work that Rosemary Moon and her team of volunteers have done this year in order to move the Collection and set it up in its new home, plus creating the Visitor Centre. We had a special unofficial opening, primarily for Sheila Cutler and a few guests on 14th March. The official opening on 11th July was a joyous event and was performed by Gareth Johnson, MP. The Mayor of Dartford and other invited guests from Dartford, North Kent and University of Greenwich attended and a report will be in the magazine.
My deepest thanks to the dedicated members of your committee for all their work this year. In particular, Jo Harris for her vision and leadership, Peter Boreham who brings so much expertise and calm advice, Christobel Elliott for her sterling work as Treasurer, Registrar and Benefit Fund Administrator, Jackie Gibbs for her great work in funding and marketing and Jan Grimsey for organising today’s reunion. This is not to say that other members of the committee have not been working hard as well!
You’ll be pleased to hear that we have a volunteer to take over as Treasurer today, as Christobel and Marg are standing down after 16 years in the job. They will, however, continue until December 31st in order to complete the financial year and present the accounts, thus giving time for the incoming Treasurer to see how their systems work. We plan to make several changes in the future, including, as you know, changing to annual subscription payments and doing more online.
Although we do not have a new full time Secretary, I am very grateful to Sue Beard who has offered to become our minutes secretary as you can see today, thank you Sue. Also Jackie Gibbs has agreed to become Vice-
Chair of the BÖU, which is why we shall be adding this post to the constitution later. We feel it is very important to have her take on this role in order to make sure we have continuity in the future. We still need someone to do other secretarial tasks and social media, if anyone is interested?
Finally I need to give you notice that I shall be standing down as Chair at the next AGM on 5th September 2020. I first came onto the Committee in 1995 (thank you Toni!) and I took over as Chairman from Rosemary Fisher in September 1997, so I shall have done 23 years by the time I retire. I feel I have done all I can or want to do now and it is time for someone else to take us into the future. I can’t really top being on the BBC with Michael
11
Portillo! I was originally planning to stand down today but I have agreed to do a final year in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Thank you all again for coming and I hope that you thoroughly enjoy the rest of the day.
Anne Stuart
SECRETARY’S REPORT
There was no Secretary’s Report for this AGM as the post is still vacant.
TREASURERS’ REPORT
The Statement of Accounts for 2018, which can be found on page 42 of the 2019 magazine, was examined in January and signed off by the Independent Examiner, Roger Barton, who is with us today.
The financial health of the BÖU for 2018 remained good though the General Reserves were down about £1,400 on 2017, partly because it was not the main time for renewal of subscriptions; these are used for the general running costs of the BÖU. At this point it should be mentioned that we must be very grateful to the majority of committee members and volunteers, who do not claim expenses, as a considerably higher figure would be found under officers’ expenses.
Sincere thanks go to all those who have made extremely kind and generous donations, especially towards the Österberg Collection and the conservation and preservation of this wonderful national resource.
We were delighted and very grateful to be awarded grants by Kent County Council (£500) and also by Dartford Borough Council (£1,000) for the Österberg Collection. Our thanks go to Jackie Gibbs for making the successful applications.
As has been customary, Roger was given a token of our gratitude and appreciation of his support and advice and for kindly examining the Statements of Accounts; a letter of thanks from the Committee was sent to Roger. Thank you, Roger, for your patience and advice over the last sixteen years, this has been very much appreciated.
Lastly, not only would we like to thank all the Members of the Committee for their support and all our Members of the BÖU, who have supported us in so many ways over the years, but also we would like to wish the incoming Treasurer an enjoyable and successful time in office.
Christobel Elliott & Margaret Kukoyi
12
BENEFIT FUND REPORT
The Statement of Accounts for 2018 can be found on page 43 of the 2019 magazine; this was also independently examined and signed by Roger Barton.
Again, two individual grants were paid out from the fund, as well as one to the BÖU towards the cost of the support in maintaining access to the Österberg Collection via the World Wide Web.
The Annual income from the M&G Charifund Investment Account remained about the same with a slight increase of £100.
The value of the investments at the end of the year was, as might have been expected, approximately £5000 down on that of 2017.
The Benefit Fund is still in a good position for the Trustees to receive applications for grants and also to continue contributing to the licence fee and support of the Österberg Collection website. To date there have been two grants awarded.
My thanks go to the two other trustees, for their support; I wish them and the new trustee well for the future.
Christobel Elliott
REGISTRAR’S REPORT
We are especially pleased to see so many of year 1969 with us today, including Wendy from Canada, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of leaving college.
Since September 2018, we have been delighted to welcome 16 new members to the BÖU. I would like to be able to say that we definitely have 375 members, but the renewals from the 2016/2018 cohort of some of our longer-standing members, have been rather slow in arriving but, thankfully, are still trickling in, so I am hoping the remaining 44 will arrive soon.
Sadly, we have recently heard of the death of three of our older members from the 1940’s; Dorothy Devitt (Crowther 1940), Peggie Gilliland (1942), Sheila Middleton (Toplis 1947); our condolences were sent to their families.
The next payments will be due on 1.1.2020; information about this will be sent towards the end of this year to all those who are due to renew their subscriptions, along with details of how to pay. It is realised that not
13
everyone now has a cheque book, nor does everyone use online banking, so it is hoped that any system set up by the new Treasurer, will suit the majority of our members, but where not, please use your preferred method of payment.
Only new members will need to complete a form.
Please keep in touch with us and give us your news and of course, especially, please keep us informed of any changes to your contact details, not forgetting email addresses. We know of mini reunions held in various parts of the country and we would like to receive news of these, and today’s, plus photos for the magazine; these can be sent to [email protected]
Christobel Elliott
Anne Stuart thanked Christobel for her work in her three roles.
THE ÖSTERBERG COLLECTION REPORT
The year since September 2018 has been eventful and very busy. Our main events have already been mentioned in other reports, so I will focus instead on thanking individuals who have continued to give up their time to work with the Collection. Thank you to: Gwen Seabrook Smith and Alan Gamwell for their first-class,
professional cataloguing. There are now over 7,000 catalogue entries to view on our website and Alan has digitally scanned more than 2,000 photographs. Alan has also created Powerpoint presentations, including one for today called, “College Memories 1966 to 1970”.
Martin Smith for his practical support. Martin has repaired and reconditioned Madame’s dresser; he supervised the installation and secure fixing of shelving during our move; he fixed Madame’s heavy brass plaque to the wall of the Visitor Centre; he has fixed many display boards and photographs to the walls of our rooms. Without Martin’s skills and generous gift of time the Collection would not be the splendid sight you will see today.
Lesley Tipler has given talks about Madame Österberg and her College to Dartford Library, Hextable Heritage Society, Dorothy Devitt’s 100th Birthday celebrations and Swanley History Group. These talks are an important part of our ongoing publicity and raise funds for the Collection. Lesley created a Powerpoint presentation, “Netball - made in Dartford, England...played across the world”. The presentation was shown to delegates at the 2019 Netball World Cup in Liverpool and is available to view on the BÖU website and in the Visitor Centre.
14
Sandra Applegate and Susan Hayes regularly work at computers scanning the Collection’s documents. They have already scanned more than 5,000 staff and student records.
Christobel Elliott has made great inroads into creating detailed records of our collection of cricket memorabilia. She has also carried out research to discover information about some of our staff and students.
Margaret Kukoyi has spent many hours restoring and polishing the special brass bell now hanging in the Visitor Centre and originally presented to the College by Sydney Hughes (1880-1962).
Brenda Barton and Margaret Kukoyi carried out the tedious task of stock checking our book collection, which now numbers more than 700 books.
In fact, many of the jobs we carry out in the Collection are detailed and tedious. Hazel Chapman has always recognised just how tedious the work is and regularly sends me a thank you card. Thank you, Hazel!
This year our special focus in the Österberg Visitor Centre has been Netball. Next year our focus will be The Olympics and we shall be researching College links with Women’s Football.
I will finish with a quote from Madame Österberg. Madame was always looking ahead. Once, when watching a hockey match of Old versus Present students she said, smilingly, to a fellow-watcher who was cheering the Old, “I always cheer the Present, they are nearer the Future.”
Rosemary Moon
Anne Stuart thanked Rosemary for all her work
The reports were unanimously adopted at the meeting. Proposer: Hazel Chapman (1947) Seconded: Janet Lee (1978)
ELECTION OF OFFICERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chair: A Stuart Vice-Chair: J Gibbs
Secretary: Vacant Treasurer: A Gamwell Committee Members: T Cutler C Elliott (Registrar) J Grimsey (Reunions) R Moon (Collection Curator, Magazine and Newsletter Editor)
15
Co-opted Committee Members: S Beard (Meetings minute-taker) S Applegate
J Marchant K Challinor
The above officers were unanimously accepted at the AGM. Proposer: P Barnes (1978) Seconded: J Grimsey (1970)
APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
Roger Barton has agreed to continue for another year to make the Treasurer’s transition as smooth as possible. Anne Stuart thanked Roger for all his work and support.
CHANGES TO THE CONSTITUTION
The proposals to amend items 10(ii) and 10(vi) in the BÖU constitution were agreed by a resolution of over three quarters of the members present at the AGM, as per the rules of the constitution.
10 (ii) now reads “There shall be four officers - The Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer.” 10 (vi) now reads “Any newly elected Treasurer will take office at the beginning of the new financial year (the outgoing Treasurer having completed the year and prepared the end of year statement of accounts)”.
PRESENTATIONS made by Anne Stuart
Brenda Barton
Brenda joined the committee in September 2003 and has done a variety of jobs in the last 16 years. She brought with her a local knowledge of Dartford which has been very helpful in creating our relationships with the Borough Council and understanding local issues over the years. In 2010 Brenda volunteered to produce the annual newsletter and I can remember her visiting my school once to collect the printed copies. She fascinated my sixth form A level PE students with her tales of Dartford! Brenda is always there to volunteer to do anything that is needed, such as looking after “Madame’s stone” which sits under Madame’s tree at the back of Kingsfield. We are very glad that she will be continuing to come to the Ӧsterberg Collection to help on Wednesdays and would like to present her with this card and gift to thank her for her long service. (The gift was a shopping token).
16
Christobel Elliott and Marg Kukoyi Christobel and Marg took over from Joyce Allen at the 2003 AGM, starting as Treasurers at the beginning of 2004, once Joyce had finished the financial year. They will have done 16 years at the end of 2019. In 2003 we had 350 members with 86 still to pay. Currently we have 355 members with 44 still to pay. Interest rates had dropped “farcically low” in 2003 to between 0.75 and 1.2%. Not much difference between now and then either! They have presided over a period of considerable change in our work and some very big events, which have required a great deal of time and effort on their part, particularly from Christobel. For example, the Centenary dinner in 2015 and the two Honorary Degree ceremonies in 2017 and 2018.
Marg I find from past magazines that Marg attended meetings off and on in the 1990s before coming onto Committee full time, so she has a long association with our committee work. Marg also has a great deal of in-
depth knowledge about local issues/associations and Dartford Borough Council and there are very few people that she does not know! She has always had the best interests of the BÖU in her dealings with them. Her career led her to be able to create opportunities, such as links with Japan and in fact Marg was the first person from the BÖU to visit the Japan Women’s College of PE before three of us went in 2013. By her own admission her work and house in the Gambia have increasingly meant that the bulk of the Treasurer’s job has been done by Christobel, especially in the last few years. We would like to present Marg with this card and gift to thank her for all her work. (The gift was a pair of BӦU earrings.) Christobel As you have already heard, Christobel volunteered to become Treasurer originally to help Marg, and ended up by being the main officer over a period of time. In addition she took on being the Benefit Fund administrator from Sue Hayes in 2010, adding to that in 2016 when she took on being Registrar from Jenny Haynes. Christobel’s dedication, attention to detail and knowledge of all things BÖU is invaluable. She is a meticulous Treasurer who goes well beyond the traditional role. For example she makes the time to write and thank members who have made donations, which also helps her in her role as Registrar. Her knowledge of ex-students is extensive and does now, I think, equal that of Sheila Cutler. I can give no higher praise! We are very glad that she has agreed to continue as Registrar for one more year and that she will also continue coming to work in the Collection on Wednesdays. On behalf of the BÖU, I would like to present Christobel with this card and gift to thank her for all her efforts over the last 16 years. (The gift was a pair of BӦU earrings.)
17
Anne Stuart thanked the committee for all their contributions to the work of the BÖU this year. The official part of the meeting was then declared closed with thanks to Anne for taking the Chair and Sue Beard for taking the minutes.
An open discussion followed the official business of the AGM with members asked to consider ‘The Future of the BÖU’.
Anne Stuart gave a brief introduction asking members to focus on the three objectives printed on the front cover of the 2019 magazine. (Copies were available) She also gave a summary of the situation regarding the eventual building development that will encompass the Kingsfield buildings and that the BÖU does not have lasting tenure or written guarantees that the building used for the Collection at present will remain available to house the Collection long term. Members were given five minutes to discuss with the person next to them what they considered the issues to be, and what they want from the BÖU. Feedback was given through the Chair.
The following is a summary of the comments and ideas made by the members attending the AGM, a number of whom were from the 1969 cohort. Not all individual names have been attributed to the points made, as some were the result of discussions and included the thoughts of more than one person. Comments were mostly aimed at either the BÖU membership or the Archive which were treated independently and not as being dependent on one another.
Comments relating to the Archive
With the development of technology the Collection can be accessed by members/interested parties by logging onto the website. There is no need for BÖU members to visit the old Dartford campus. The long term security of the Collection should be a priority. Dartford is where the PE College was and perhaps the local authority should have some historical responsibility for the Collection as heritage is the most important aspect of it. There doesn’t seem to be a long term future here for the Collection on this site. The natural site for the Collection should be in Dartford somewhere. A suggestion was made that Dartford Station should have a sign that says ‘Dartford, Home of Netball’.
A question was raised as to whether or not the AENA had ever been
18
contacted re the importance of the historical development of netball at Dartford and its place in history. The response was that this had been done and they had not shown any interest whatsoever. Joan Mills reported that Kent netball have been pushing for a greater interest in the development of netball without success. High profile AENA members are not engaging with our enquiries. Joan congratulated the BÖU on having more members attend their AGM than attended the AENA AGM!
Jackie Gibbs reported that the BÖU has recently joined the website called ‘Sporting Heritage’ which lists collections of a wide range of sports. This will help promote the Österberg Collection. There are conferences and training opportunities, offered on this site, which could be of benefit in the future.
Peter Boreham noted that members have memories that are valuable historical recollections of their time at Dartford College. Individual stories of life at the college, whilst they were studying, would be a valuable addition to the Collection. These stories and anecdotal incidents with photographs make the best contributions. BÖU members could be asked to send in their personal stories for inclusion in such a project. Some have already done so and these are greatly appreciated. Perhaps this request could go out to all registered members?
Comments relating to the BÖU
Some cohorts of ex Dartford girls are very engaged with their year groups and organise their own reunions for particular anniversaries or occasions relevant to them. These already take place in different parts of the country. More recently they use modern technology to reach out to their own cohorts and don’t involve the BÖU. Anne Stuart noted that it would be really helpful if the BÖU could be told about such occasions. We could then offer for example, a talk or a power point that would be of interest.
Maybe the BÖU could support regional reunions by looking at geographically appointed reunion co-ordinators? As we get older members are finding it more difficult to drive or travel to Dartford for reunions. Some ex students do not want to come back to Dartford as the campus looks so different when compared to their memories. For some it has been a devastating experience and they wished they had not come back at all. Anne Stuart noted that there is something special about Madame’s Girls that means all year groups can relate to one another, and that only happens at Reunions and events.
Different situations arise for different eras of past students. Long term, what is the future? What are the future benefits and how do we keep Madame’s name special? Whilst Dartford girls know her name, how many other people do?
19
The Honorary Degree ceremonies generated the most interest from all eras of Dartford students. Having achieved this lifelong ambition there’s a feeling of ‘job done’, for many. Thanks were given to the committee for getting the degrees to happen.
The AGM invitations are not inspiring. We are in the middle of a Reunion, it will have been great to have been here but its more about the getting together which we can do anywhere ( 1969 Reunion).
BÖU members feel guilty about not taking an active interest in the running of the BÖU but often they just live too far away. (Most active members are in the Home Counties). A question was asked, ‘Realistically, what is the committee prepared to do and for how long are they prepared to do it, as we are all getting older!’
Michele Verroken offered to become a Legacy Ambassador to promote the Collection, its importance in the development of women’s sport, Martina Bergman Österberg’s legacy and support for female emancipation and the place of women in sport today.
Finally a reflection from Hazel Chapman 1947, the “Mother of the Union”, who thanked the Committee members past and present for all they have done for the BÖU, and said, “We must look ahead, we won’t be here in the future and the BÖU won’t exist. Succession planning is essential and an end date should be kept in mind.” (She also commented that a chair had four legs and she couldn’t bring herself to call the Chair by that term!)
The year 2026 was suggested by Michele Verroken as this would coincide with the anniversary of the final PE students completing their training as one of Madame’s Girls.
Anne Stuart thanked everyone for their suggestions and comments and for coming to the AGM and wished them an enjoyable reunion day. All the ideas will be taken back to Committee to be worked on.
PLEASE NOTE: In absentia degrees will only be available from University of Greenwich until December 2020. Please contact the University Alumni and Development Office:
0208 331 7836
0208 331 9691
20
THE ÖSTERBERG COLLECTION
VISITOR CENTRE
On Thursday 14th March 2019, The Österberg Collection Visitor Centre was opened for a private viewing by a number of special guests including Sheila Cutler (accompanied by her daughter Mary), Councillor Ann Allen and Councillor Patsy Thurlow. Before enjoying a delicious lunch, guests viewed the Visitor Centre, the Österberg archive store and the Österberg volunteers’ offices (where archives had been displayed for the occasion). It was a great honour to be able to show Sheila Cutler the enormous progress which has been made in recent years.
The Österberg Collection Visitor Centre.
21
Madame Österberg’s chair in the Dame Janet Campbell Room with year group photos on the wall and a college bureau donated by Dr. Albert Pomfret.
Guests chatting in the Sheila Cutler Room. Note Madame Österberg’s dresser in the background.
22
Guests and volunteers
enjoy
meeting and
viewing The
Österberg Collection.
23
Anne Stuart (BÖU Chair), Councillor Roger Perfitt, Mayor of Dartford, and Gareth Johnson MP, perform the opening ceremony.
Official Opening of
The Österberg Collection
Visitor Centre
Thursday 11th July 2019
With the support of Councillor Roger Perfitt, Mayor of Dartford, and Gareth Johnson MP, the Bergman Österberg Union and North Kent College opened the newly refurbished Österberg Collection Visitor Centre on Thursday 11th July 2019. Guests included ex-staff and students of Dartford College of Physical Education; staff from North Kent College and University of Greenwich; friends and members of the Bergman Österberg Union. The Visitor Centre is open to the public on Wednesdays from 11am to 4pm. Visitors should first sign in at North Kent College Reception. The Österberg Collection is managed by volunteers and it would help if visitors could e-mail in advance: [email protected]
24
Guests pose for a group photo in front of The Österberg Collection Wall Wrap.
25
These stone lions once graced a set of steps leading from the rear of Aller Loo to the gardens. When Aller Loo was demolished in 1968 the lions were moved to the top of the steps leading to Madame Österberg’s rose garden at the back of Kingsfield. They now live in the Österberg Visitor Centre.
Mounted on the wall of the Visitor Centre is the Brass Plaque which once graced the wall of the College Dining Room. The inscription reads: ”In Grateful Remembrance of Madame Bergman Österberg who founded this College for the benefit of many daughters of England and before her death gave it to the nation as a permanent School of Physical Education and Research. She died on the 29th of July 1915.”
26
University of Greenwich Chancellor’s Dinner 2019
Our BÖU Chair, Vice President, Treasurer and BÖU ‘Ambassador’ Dr. Michele Verroken attended the annual University of Greenwich Chancellor’s Dinner in July 2019. The Dinner was held in the sumptuous surroundings of the newly-restored Old Royal Naval College Painted Hall, Greenwich. This black-tie event brought together people from a diversity of backgrounds. All who attended are active partners in supporting the ethos and work of the University.
Our BÖU officers shared a table with members of the governing body of the University (one of whom was a former Headmistress of Benenden), and officers of the Student Union. The Student Union officers were particularly interested to hear about the history and heritage of the College at Dartford and were able to provide updates regarding the increasingly varied sporting interests of the University. These occasions provide a great opportunity for networking and making new contacts.
The Right Honourable Lord Paul Boateng, the newly appointed Chancellor of the University, presented awards to members of the student body and gave an inspirational speech to guests. Lord Boateng spoke with passion. “This University stands for inclusion, opportunity and excellence in education while reaching out to the wider world and equipping successive generations with the tools they will need to make a difference.” Madame Österberg would most certainly have agreed with the sentiments expressed. Her ‘girls’ were trained to the highest standards in order to make a difference in the world! Peter Boreham
Anne Stuart Peter Boreham Christobel Elliott
27
Gillian G. Aitkenhead MBE, DL, HonDEd
On a rather wet Thursday 24th October 2019, another of our esteemed alumnae was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education (HonDEd) by University of Greenwich. The ceremony was held in the Painted Chapel and Christopher Philpott was the orator, with Vice-Chancellor Professor David Maguire and Pro-Chancellor Marianne Ismail presiding. It was particularly appropriate that the students graduating at the same ceremony were from the Faculty of Education and Health, a large number of whom had gained degrees and PGCE’s in Physical Education and Primary Education.
Gill left Dartford in 1972 and initially worked as a teacher and youth leader before taking advice from Mary Duggan and joining the Royal Navy. She did her training at The Royal Naval College, Greenwich. They used to have their meals in the Painted Hall! She enjoyed a distinguished career, retiring from the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant Commander in 1998, following 24 years of service. During that time she took on a variety of roles, including organising Inter-Service sports competitions and also taking the salute as our ships sailed from Portsmouth to do battle in the Falklands war.
Gill then co-founded the recruitment consultancy Clayworth Adam Ltd. from which she is now retired. She has just stood down as Vice Lord Lieutenant of the County of Dunbartonshire, a role which saw her working as a representative of the Royal Family and also planning and hosting their visits to the county. Far from retiring in that role, she is now continuing as a Deputy Lieutenant. A prolific fundraiser for charity, Gill also helped to develop the Loch Lomond Highland games and is a highly skilled administrator.
Toni Cutler, Peter Boreham, Maggie and Steve Weeks, Sarah Decent, Jackie Gibbs, Christobel Elliott and I were delighted and proud to be there to see Gill receive this well-deserved honour. She was nominated by David Maguire personally. Naturally Gill entertained us all with her acceptance speech, whilst telling us a lot about her life. Afterwards, she wrote to me and said: “I would like to think that ALL old Dartford students can own a part of my HonDEd. Without the Dartford legacy it would not have happened”. Well done and many congratulations Gill! Anne Stuart
28
The retirement of Professor David Maguire
Vice Chancellor of the University of Greenwich 2011 - 2019
On Thursday 28th November 2019, I was invited to represent the BÖU at David Maguire’s retirement reception, which was held in the magnificent Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College.
The Chancellor the Rt. Hon. Lord Boateng, Vice-Chancellor Javier Bonet and Honorary Pro-Chancellor Stephen Howlett CBE, DL spoke about David’s time in office and presented him with a framed print of old Greenwich and other gifts.
David came to Greenwich from Birmingham City University, where he was Pro-Vice-Chancellor of research and enterprise and is an acknowledged expert in computer mapping and Geographic Information Systems. Prior to that he worked as chief scientist and director of products at a global software company based in California. He has published seven books and more than 100 scientific and technical publications. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine in Bucharest. He is the Chair of JISC, the U.K.’s expert body for digital technology and resources in education and research.
During his time as Vice-Chancellor, he has presided over the completion of the Stockwell Street building, the development and building of the Avery Hill sports facilities, the Medway campus student hub and the excellent and complex redevelopment of the old Dreadnought Hospital into a state-of-the-art student hub and teaching facility. The University has risen much higher in the national league tables and now has a very good reputation indeed. They have also won prestigious awards for research.
Although officially retiring, David is going to continue with non-executive directorships and other projects, as well as finally taking some well-earned holidays.
It was David who supported our efforts to persuade the University to award us Honorary Degrees, helped in no small measure by his attendance at our centenary dinner in 2015, where he heard Gill Aitkenhead speak and met many of our alumni. The degree awards would not have happened without his support and we will always be very grateful to him for the interest he has taken in the BÖU. I gave him a card and a gift of some framed postcards of the early days at Madame’s College to remember us by.
Anne Stuart
29
The University of Greenwich Carol Service
and new Vice Chancellor
On Tuesday 3rd December 2019, Peter Boreham, Christobel Elliott and I went to a reception and the annual Carol Service in the Painted Chapel at the Old Royal Naval College. We were looked after by Mary Davies and Jonathan Seal from the Alumni and Development office and were delighted to be able to meet the new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane Harrington, who had only started her new post the day before.
Jane was previously Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost at the University of the West of England in Bristol and has worked in higher education for over 25 years. Her specific interests include teaching excellence, the student experience, widening access into higher education, social mobility and improving partnership working across the Business and University sectors. She was very interested to hear about the BÖU and Madame Ӧsterberg and we hope to have a more formal meeting with her in early 2020.
The Carol service was well attended and the choir, whose numbers have swelled, was a delight to listen to. Personally, I particularly enjoyed singing next to Peter who has a wonderful voice!
Anne Stuart
The Family carol singing, East Hill, December 1949. (Courtesy of The Österberg Collection)
30
101 years on
the Degree achieved at long last!
The past two years for pre-1969 former Dartford students – with the award ceremonies for the retrospective HonBEd degree – have proved momentous; not only for the truly deserving students, but for the history of physical education and for the College in the form of the BÖU.
Although congratulations will have been voiced many times by friends, family and well-wishers, such must be also in order here. With the final HonBEd ceremony concluded, leaving many happy if not even ecstatic former students, it should be known that of the ‘once’ nine women’s colleges of physical education (founded between 1885 – 1947; namely Anstey, Bedford, Chelsea, Dartford, Dunfermline, IM Marsh, Lady Mabel, Nonington and Ulster) Dartford will probably be the only one of these to have pursued and gained this retrospective award for Diploma and Teachers’ Certificate holders. Contact with the Old Students Associations/Unions of these has indicated that only Bedford might take up the gauntlet that Dartford BÖU, assisted by University of Greenwich, has thrown down. It should be noted that Jane Claydon’s phrase ‘first in the field’ is most apt regarding Dartford’s ‘first’ in its foundation and now for achieving the HonBEd for all. Some accolade not only for its founder, its students but also its staff!
Readers may think here that Madame Österberg was not concerned with achieving degree status for her students being too busy to pursue such - but this could be an incorrect assumption. She must certainly have known as her staff were clearly active in this aim; whether she approved would certainly have been a different matter! Indeed, she may well not have done as the early moves came from the Ling Association, an Association of which Madame disapproved.
As early as 1916 the Old Students’ Association of the Women’s Physical Training Colleges had discussed ‘a University scheme aiming at Degree status’. By November 1916, at a Conference of Principals at the South Western Polytechnic (Chelsea) convened by Sidney Stringer, it was agreed to present a Diploma rather than a Degree scheme to the University of London, ‘in the first instance’. Note that the phrase ‘in the first instance’ suggests some disquiet about holding back, as it might have been judged. There may well have been a hidden agenda regarding the efficacy of the women to cope; such moves would certainly have been met by stern opposition from university hierarchies. It could have also been down to the astuteness of the Principals in just biding their time.
The Principals were not giving up. They continued to pursue this issue and at this conference were represented by Miss Stansfeld (Bedford Principal and founder), Miss Anstey (Anstey Principal and founder), two representatives of
31
the Incorporate Society of Trained Masseurs, Miss Hankinson (Dartford trained) representing the Ling Association, Dr. Barrie Lambert proposer of the scheme in the Chair, and six representatives including Miss Greene (Principal) from the BÖ Committee: quite a united and very able tour de force.
Madame would have known of the early initiatives: getting such eminent people in the field together would have taken much time and preparation and these would have significantly pre-dated Madame’s death. It is important to note here that travel between the colleges was not easy; cars were uncommon, train journeys were lengthy, and passenger flights unknown. Journeys from Dartford for meetings in London would probably have started in a horse and cart, yet these early pioneers were not thwarted in their attempts to ensure the status and recognition of their subject.
Efforts to gain university status were accelerated in 1918 when Principal Skinner urged the adoption of the university scheme at the February Conference. In further preparation for this scheme the courses at Anstey, Bedford, Dartford and Liverpool were extended to three years from 1919. Chelsea had already made this move having instituted a three-year course as early as 1909.
Given the consensus to delay the pursuit of a Degree award, the Diploma in the Theory and Practice of Physical Education became the next hurdle to achieve. In 1926, the Principals Eva Lett (BÖPTC), Margaret Stansfeld (BPTC), Marion Squire (APTC), Dorette Wilke (CCPE) and Honoria Wickstead (IMMPTC), led by Principal Skinner prepared ‘The Memorial’ (a petition) which was signed by 1,400 requesting the introduction of a Diploma in the Theory and Practice of Physical Education: such polite vocabulary! This was presented to the Senate of the University of London (26 January 1928). Their efforts were rewarded with the University of London Senate’s approval. Recognition was still to take time; Chelsea was recognised in 1930, Anstey 1931, Liverpool 1934, Bedford 1934, BÖPTC 1935 and Nonington 1939. This was such a milestone achievement for the colleges; up until such recognition the individual colleges were presenting their own awards, their own certificates and diplomas. This move brought academic consistency to the courses provided.
By the early 1950s the goal of according the subject degree status was almost achieved. The courses were in preparation but this drive was cut short with the Diploma being completely withdrawn in 1955, one year before it could have been considered for degree status, with the introduction of the Teachers’ Certificate courses (UK government initiative). These were introduced as follows: Anstey students 1949-1952 received their award from Birmingham
University, Institute of Education. Chelsea, Dartford and Nonington 1950-1953 gained theirs from London
University
32
IM Marsh students 1950-1953 from Liverpool University. From 1952 Cambridge recognised Bedford for the Certificate of the
Cambridge Institute of Education. It was a further 16 years before the first eight students from Chelsea
graduated in 1968 with a BEd(Hons) Degree from the University of Sussex after a four-year course.
These 16 years were however highly productive for the status of physical education in schools. By the early 1960s moves at secondary school level to accord academic accreditation to a wider student audience were progressing. No one, surely, in the late 1880s could possibly have imagined that their subject – physical education – would have become a popular school subject, being accredited initially along with the new CSE (1965), with the GCSE and A Level examinations following shortly after. The debate regarding the value of physical education was wide open. Four years on from the introduction of the CSE the subject gained university accreditation.
By the late 1960s the push for degree status in physical education was accelerated with the consensus between the colleges and the awarding bodies that a BEd should be awarded: Chelsea was the first to achieve this goal (Sussex University; 1967
followed by Anstey (Birmingham University; 1968) then Dartford and Nonington (both London University; 1968) Bedford (London University; 1969) IM Marsh (Liverpool; 1970) Lady Mabel (Sheffield; 1972) Dunfermline (CNAA; 1973)
The agreement to seek degree status for the subject in 1919 took a mere 101 years to be implemented for so many students!
The Government White Paper, Cmnd.5174 ‘Education Today: A Framework for Expansion’ (1972; HMSO) spelt the end for the nine specialist Colleges of Physical Education; their final demise stemmed from this paper. The key charges of this paper were:
1. to make changes in teacher education and training; 2. the substantial expansion of Higher Education; 3. the award of the BEd/BEd(Hons) degrees.
Whilst degree status was certainly an achievement, it also unfortunately paved the way for the demise of the once prestigious Women’s Colleges of Physical Education – indeed a two-edged sword! The White Paper offered the provision so hard fought for by the Women’s PE Colleges! Anstey, Dartford, and Nonington were axed completely by 1986, with the other colleges being gradually absorbed into their accrediting universities with their prestigious names being similarly lost.
33
Whilst one-time students of such colleges may well regret the loss of their alma mater (particularly with reference to subject teaching) arguably the growth of the subject can hardly be denied; though not suggesting better! The plethora of courses of study, qualifications and career pathways, all originating from the initial physical education colleges, now are highly enviable and endless. Perhaps it suffices, with well-deserved HonBEd held firmly in hand, to acknowledge ‘Dartford was an important part of such’.
Perhaps the ‘un-sung’
Much of the content of the BÖU Magazine in the past two years has focused, quite rightly, on the award of the HonBEd degree to former students, who on qualifying prior to 1969 were awarded a Diploma/University Teachers’ Certificate. Praise, again quite correctly has been accorded to the BÖU committee who vigorously pursued the right to this award. Make no mistake this was a phenomenal achievement. Whilst the BÖU and the support of University of Greenwich have been cited throughout the pursuit of this achievement, scant attention has been paid to the role played historically by the founding staff of Dartford College and later staff.
It is little known or appreciated that as early as 1916 Dartford Staff were involved in the pursuit of degree accreditation for their students. The Ling Association (founded by Mary Hankinson, a former Dartford student), the Association of Colleges of Physical Education and the Association of Principals of Women’s Colleges of Physical Education all in turn pursued this goal. The latter association finally achieved the award of BEd for PE students in 1968. Their efforts are chronicled in Webb’s recent text “Forty Plus ‘one’ Glorious Years” in which the struggles to achieve this goal are meticulously recorded.
The dedication of College staff, the hours given so freely, the meetings, the conferences, the papers given, the advice to government groups and the mass exhibitions of student expertise - it is just hardly conceivable as to how they managed the volume of work undertaken often against a background of very resistant university hierarchies. Webb proffers the accolades these forbears genuinely merit. Her ‘unsung-heroes’ had successors with equally determined and committed staff; the latter need some recognition.
The 1970s were times of massive change in Higher Education. Once the BEd had been established the staff of the PE colleges were faced with having to develop new degree courses as the accrediting bodies seem to constantly change. The Government White Paper Cmnd.5174 paved the way for the amalgamation of institutions during this time.
Dartford was faced with several proposals, leading to incorporation with Thames Polytechnic (August 1st 1976). The Polytechnic courses were validated by the CNAA (Council for National Academic Awards). The College had little choice to follow suit. Getting the PE courses validated under the new body proved an enormous mountain. Course names were also constantly
34
changing, sometimes seemingly just to fit in with an educational climate that was averse to the term physical education (the well-versed non-academic argument in particular).
From 1978 -1981 students were awarded a CNAA Teacher’s Certificate. 1981 saw the final acceptance of PE/Movement Studies in a four years honours degree course (CNAA validated). The protracted delay resulting from the several attempts at degree validation was disastrous for the college and in some respects – on reflection - was a deliberate ploy to reduce the profile of physical education and lead the way to college closure. The suggestion of inner political workings has been avoided here. What was accepted by London University in 1968 was rejected by CNAA. Nonington College continued with their degree awards with London University! There seemed to be no rhyme nor reason for CNAA’s rejection of the college’s degree submissions.
College staff worked tirelessly during this period to achieve the necessary degree status – in the footsteps of the founders. Throughout the years the staff generated and developed courses, right up to college closure. The fact that the college curriculum was so demanding, both academically and physically – certainly degree-worthy (as now vindicated), was down to the motivation and input of the staff.
Their courses were followed by endless numbers of students who on qualification were eagerly employed by the teaching profession and indeed other professions. This was due to the course followed, designed and developed by different generations of staff, who retained the prestigious record of the college. Thus, the HonBEd achieved over the past two years also serves to recognise their input; here second subject staff should also be applauded. They too deserve recognition for their contributions.
It would be a travesty to omit the contributions of all the staff to the former students’ graduation success. Perhaps this inclusion serves to make such recognition. Without a doubt the HonBEd award pays tribute to all the groups cited. Gill Metcalfe
References
Claydon, P.J. (2012) St Leonards: First in the Field
Webb, Dr I M, (2018) Forty Plus ‘one’ Glorious Years. Available from Cawleys Farm, Stockland, Honiton, Devon, EX14 9DJ
Government White Paper Cmnd 5174 (1972) HMSO
Pomfret, Albert (1985) Datford College 1885-1985. Thames Polytechnic
35
Dorothy Florence Devitt (Crowther 1940) 19th April 1919-11th June 2019
Dorothy was born in West Bridgford, near Nottingham, in her grandparents’ home. She attended Harrogate Ladies College as an infant and junior pupil, Wakefield High School in 1931, followed by Maidstone Girls Grammar School from 1933 to 1937.
Dorothy attended the Bergman Österberg Physical Training College in Dartford from 1937 to 1940. She was registered with the Chartered Society of Massage and Medical Gymnastics in 1940 and qualified as a Physiotherapist in 1941. Dorothy’s first appointment was as the English and PE Teacher at Sunderland High School for Girls, from 1940 to 1942 and then Newport Grammar School for Girls until 1944. Between 1944 and 1948, Dorothy was a supply teacher and also worked at Birds Custard in Birmingham as the Welfare Officer.
Dorothy married Barry Vernon Devitt at St. Nicholas Church, Otham, Kent, on 9th February 1946. Her first baby, Adrian Barry Devitt, was born on 25th June 1948 and Dorothy Jane Devitt was born on 23rd September 1952.
Subsequent PE teaching posts from 1956 through to 1964 included the Convent of the Sacred Heart, Maidstone; Borstal for Girls in Sutton Valence; Vinters Secondary School for Girls, Maidstone. From 1964 to 1972 Dorothy was the PE Lecturer at the Convent of the Sacred Heart, Teachers Training College in Malta. She achieved the major success of introducing modern physical education techniques to the Maltese National Curriculum, which was subsequently introduced to all state schools. She was publicly acclaimed for her pioneering methods, combined with an empathetic and supportive approach to her students.
In 1973 Dorothy retired and returned with Barry to Bearsted, near Maidstone. In 1987 they emigrated to Spain until Barry died in 1995. Dorothy returned to England in 1997 to live in Sandy, Bedfordshire, to be near Jane and Adrian. Sadly, Adrian died in 2008 from a brain tumour and Jane was the family carer for Dorothy from 2007. Dorothy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2011, but remained in Sandy with home care support until she moved to Anjulita Court care home in March 2017.
Dorothy was the oldest Dartford Old Student to receive the HonBEd from University of Greenwich in October 2017. She celebrated her 100th birthday with friends and family in April 2019 and died peacefully in her sleep in the early morning of 11th June 2019.
36
Sheila Middleton (Toplis 1947)
Elisabeth Sheila Margaret Middleton (known as Sheila) née Toplis, died on Monday 10th June 2019, aged 92.
Sheila trained at the war-time Newquay establishment for a short time before the re-opening of Dartford, where she obtained her Diploma in 1947.
For four years she taught at The Manor House School, Oxted, Surrey, at which time she met her husband-to-be, but then, because her parents (both teachers) had retired to Sark, she fulfilled a prior agreement to teach at the Guernsey Girls’
Grammar School. After a year she returned to London, obtaining a post at the Shoreditch College for the Garment Trades, where some of the pupils enjoyed themselves making her wedding dress. (“Ooh, miss,” said one bright lass, “you’re going from Top to Middle!”).
After her marriage to Alan Middleton (in Sark) in 1953, she taught at one of London’s first Comprehensive schools in West Norwood, and for the next three years was breadwinner, while Alan left his job with a music publisher and trained to join the family occupation as a qualified teacher.
Sadly, her brother (teaching at Abingdon School) died suddenly, leaving three children under three. Her mother was devastated, so plans to emigrate to New Zealand were scrapped, and in order to be near her parents in Sark, she and her husband went to Guernsey in 1956, where Alan had obtained a post at Elizabeth College.
Daughters Sally and Carol were born in 1958 and 1960, and both became nurses. Sally, a naval nurse, served aboard the ‘Uganda’ in the Falklands War, and later, after marriage into the Army, transferred to the Queen Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps. After many years she returned to civilian life, qualified as a doctor and is now practising in Alderney. Carol married and worked for many years as a midwife, and is now a nurse practitioner in a surgery near King’s Lynn, Norfolk.
Sheila used her training for some years, teaching at various schools in Guernsey, but then became a journalist with the local newspaper and also worked for Radio Guernsey, specialising in Magistrate’s Court and States of Guernsey political reporting. This led her to take a close
37
interest in Parish affairs, which resulted in being voted onto her Parish Council (the Douzaine), and eventually attaining the senior post of Constable - the first woman to attain this position in her Parish, and only the second in Guernsey. Sheila enjoyed taking part in various aspects of Island life, including music and art festivals as well as local archaeology, but then, in 1993 she decided to live in Norfolk, where she could help Carol, and watch her grandchildren grow up.
Ten years later saw a move to Mid-Devon, hoping for some enjoyable walks on Dartmoor, but hip and knee replacements made it difficult. However, with the aid of two sticks and a mobility scooter, she thoroughly enjoyed a few days attending the Reunion of Year 1947 at Newquay in May 2004.
Sheila was particularly proud to wear the Diploma Brooch which had belonged to her mother, Helen Toplis, née Pickup, who had been one of Madame’s ‘girls’, and had died in 1958. (Sheila donated the brooch some time ago.) She was very pleased in her last days to receive her certificate as an Honorary Bachelor of Education: -”Recognition at last!”, she said.
Recently, she had two short stays in hospital but never really recovered, saying typically, “Well, I’ve passed ninety-two, I’ve had a very good life, and I’m ready to go”. She died peacefully, with Alan, Sally and Carol at her bedside.
**************************
Tribute to Marge Millar (1970) who died suddenly in February 2019
On behalf of the world of sport and education and colleagues in the sports development industry, we would like to pay tribute to this sporting and young person ambassador: Marge Millar.
Marge was quite simply a legend – this is exactly what she was called at Brompton Academy. Everyone knew her; from many schools in Medway (teaching at many as a P.E. Teacher) to clubs and sports across the south east of England, through her work with Sport England and voluntary work with Swale Town Sports Council and Youth Centres. Latterly she worked part-time as a School Sport Co-ordinator (SSCo) for the Howard School Sports Partnership, having a positive influence
38
on sport, young people at and near to Brompton Academy in Gillingham, and all of her colleagues.
She was well-liked, highly sociable and a great ambassador for sport and young people and particularly disabled youngsters. She was influential in the instigation of many sports facilities and other outreach sports development projects for young people across the south east. She had a great track record of working with Kent netball and she knew ‘everyone important there was to know in sport’: MPs, Paralympic athletes, Chief Executives and Directors! Absolutely anyone and everyone involved in sport simply knew Marge Millar and she was a great mentor and motivator behind the scenes, whilst working/volunteering and even when she was retired.
She was very proud to have attended the first P.E. College for women P.E. Teachers, Madame Österberg’s College in Dartford, Kent, and lived and worked in Kent for the rest of her life.
Everyone will miss the legend because literally everyone knew her.
Claire Moore and colleagues at the Howard SSP
In November 2011, a gift of a crystal, engraved wine goblet was presented to Marge Millar to thank her for her many years of support and work for the Bergman Österberg Union.
39
NEWS FROM FORMER STUDENTS
Greetings from Australia
…….where large parts of our beautiful bush are going up in smoke! With the summer still only part way through, we are fearful of what will happen if the high temperatures continue. It's all very sad with much loss of native wildlife too. Some farmers have suffered drought for many months and are losing their homes, pastures, livestock and fencing. A number of vineyards have been burned too.
We have had a very interesting year as both Bryan, my husband, and I celebrated our 90th birthdays. My party in March was in the restaurant at the oldest winery in Victoria, called Tahbilk. It is in country Victoria and about half-way between the towns where two of our children live, so no one had to drive too far. Bryan's birthday was on Christmas Eve. He loves cricket so his celebration was in a private room at the Melbourne Cricket Club. He has been a member since 1956 when the Olympics were held here. They were very happy occasions with all the families there. We are fortunate that we keep well. We are getting slower but have so much to be thankful for.
We keep up with our Church choir commitments and the other duties that we are rostered on. Our recent carol concert was good and we also had a recorder group with us. We enjoy the monthly Probus meetings with their interesting speakers, day trips and occasional holidays.
In January, we went with a small bus company to the High Plains for a few days and one evening we attended an "Opera in the Alps" concert. A hugh stage had been set up in a large paddock with trees all round and rows of seating. It was evening and picturesque with the sunset and birds carolling. The artists were all professional singers who had appeared in operas and musical comedy. Most enjoyable.
In January, we joined a Qantas flight to Antartica for a day over the edge of the icy continent. It was a twelve-hour journey, four hours there and back and four hours over a very small part of it.
40
The mountains startled me most - rugged peaks poking through the snow, large glaciers going into the ocean and icebergs looking very small from our height. We had speakers who told of their experiences living there and a direct talk with the head of Casey base. We learned that there are now runways for planes in different parts of the continent but in an emergency we would have to go to S.I. New Zealand, closer than Australia.
We also had our few days with the family at the Ski Lodge at Fall's Creek at Easter when Autumn brings pleasant coolness in the air.
Our last trip was to the centre of Australia to Yulara, as far away from civilisation as you could get! The attraction was a "Field of Lights" setup by Bruce Monro where he had installed 50,000 stems with frosted glass spheres which lit up at dusk and changed colour randomly. They are in a field in front of Uluru [Ayers Rock] and you can walk among them. This magnificent monolith somehow exudes mystery and the whole has a spiritual atmosphere with the Aborigines having lived there for thousands of years.
We had a lovely "Dinner under the Stars" one evening where tables were set up with white cloths, sparkling glasses and shiny cutlery. It was warm and very still overlooking the "field" and at our table we had two couples from England and lots of conversation and laughs.
I have heard from Betty [Lycett] and I hear regularly from Sheila [Gell] but, sadly, no word from Catherine Martineau this year or from Ann Tilley for a couple of years. Is there any news of them?
I was delighted to see Michael Portillo's visit to College! I recorded it and show it to people who are interested. Our granddaughter plays netball and was very thrilled that I studied where it was invented!
Thank you Committee for all your hard work keeping us going!
Best wishes to all.
Margaret Gill (Gaitskell 1951)
41
1957 Reunion 2019
This year 18 of us met at The Crown, Ampney Crucis, Glos. near Cirencester, for what has now become our annual get-together and so pleasing as we haven't had this many for a long time. Many thanks to Judy for her help in contacting everyone. She will be in touch again in the Spring 2020.
For the first time Ann Harrowell (Glassborrow) was able to join us following a chance meeting on a Mediterranean cruise when she and Margaret Balloch (Dickens), with husbands, found themselves sitting opposite each other at dinner! Good also to see Margaret Babbage (Gooch) and Edith Humphries (Tuffley), who were able to come after a few years absence. We hope others will join us next year.
We enjoyed hearing from those who were unable to come, either because of the distance or who had other engagements. Chauffeurs (husbands or other family members) were able to join us or found something locally to visit. Some stayed overnight at The Crown.
It was a very happy day with much chat and a good meal and we agreed to meet again in September 2020.
Patricia Frearson (McCue)
L/R: Back row: Jenny Field (Watson), Margaret Babbage (Gooch), Fiona Carter (McWalter), Judy Herten (Sanderson), Maureen Hatton (Timberlake), Mary Hunt (Wigg), Edith Humphries (Tuffley), Adrienne Harrison (Ward), Val Russell (Robinson), Joy Adams (Sidney), Patricia Frearson (McCue) Front row: Lucia Robinson (Hartley), Norma Jenner (Teasel), Shirley Atkinson (Lofthouse), Ann Holder (Denney),
Kit Adlington (Clunon), Janet Henderson (Bohill), Ann Harrowell (Glassborrow)
42
BOOK REVIEW
Forty Plus ‘one’ Glorious Years
The History of the Association of Principals of Physical Training Colleges 1935-1958 The Association of Principals of Women’s Colleges of Physical Education 1958-1976
by Dr. Ida M. Webb
It seems extraordinary, even fortuitous, that the final HonBEd award ceremony for former Dartford students (October 2018) should coincide with the publication of Forty Plus ‘one’ Glorious Years the most recent publication of Dr. Ida Webb, former member of the Dartford staff (1955-
1967). Extraordinary because Dr. Webb’s text chronicles the struggles of the early founders of the Women’s PE Colleges in their attempts to establish their colleges, formulate a cohesive curriculum and work together towards a recognised academic body of knowledge worthy of degree status. It is hardly possible to believe that these founder figures, Rhoda Anstey (Anstey), Margaret Stansfeld (Bedford), Dorette Wilkie (Chelsea), Andrew Carnegie (Dunfermline), Irene Marsh (IM Marsh), and Helen Greene (Dartford) were seeking University degree status as early as 1916.
Dr Webb’s text traces the history of the Association of Principals of Women’s Colleges of Physical Education. It pays tribute to the energies and work of the original founders and their successors. As an association, these pioneers initially sought subject cohesion through the Ling Association (formed in 1899); currently the Association of Physical Education. Many of these were former students of Madame Österberg and it was not until after her death (1915) that they were able to join the Ling Association: Madame had an inexplicable dislike of it. Madame’s death enabled greater co-operation between the colleges, eventually leading to the formation of the Association of Principals of Women’s Colleges of Physical Education. It was this Association which led the way for academic recognition of their subject, only narrowly acquiescing to the award of the Teachers’ Certificate, as opposed to a degree, as early as 1918. This Association pursued the degree route for 41 years – until 1968 when the first degrees were awarded.
Dr Webb’s text proffers a record of all the meetings attended by these Principals chronicling the establishment of committees and associations – all of which promoted physical education to the full. Whilst pursuing academic status the members strove to widen the field of knowledge. Co-operation between international and national sporting associations is listed. The mass presentation of physical education to the nation,
43
with the International Lingiards and National Youth displays, with the input of the physical education colleges, is carefully recorded. It is of note that so few women worked so hard for their subject; individually they were on so many committees and advisory bodies; they worked with government groups, travelled widely whilst at the same time delivering courses of study to their own students. They were indefatigable; their pursuit was not just about academic status but subject development.
Dr Webb also offers a small insight into what drove these women so determinedly for their subject. It is difficult to explain their motivation – unless of course one is similarly driven. An interesting scenario is offered as to why someone would be on 22 committees, work on umpteen advisory boards, be Principal of a college and continuously strive for her passion of all movement and teaching.
It serves little purpose, given the knowledge of today, to argue, 101 years later, that without the efforts of these women their subject would not have achieved degree status. It is impossible to speculate thus. Today’s students have a privileged wealth of physical education-based subjects to pursue, both at secondary school and University level; they will probably have no idea of the contribution of the early founders, cited above, towards their enviable opportunities, nor of any debt seemed to be owed them. It seems as if such courses, such qualifications are the norm today, even taken for granted.
Ida was a member of the Association for 17 years; she knew many of the people cited in her text personally. Without this small volume these women who fought so hard for their subject, steering it through Diploma to Degree status, would have remained unsung pioneers.
Webb I M (2018) Forty plus ‘one’ Glorious Years (available from: Cawleys Farm, EX14 9DJ: 01404 881204).
Ida’s text contains three photographs from the 2017 HonBEd degree ceremony, including that of Dorothy Crowther (Dartford 1940) all courtesy of the BÖU.
44
FROM THE ÖSTERBERG COLLECTION
100 YEARS AGO
The Hon. Secretary post on the current BÖU Committee is vacant and as there is no Secretary’s report in this magazine, members may be interested in what the Hon. Secretary had to say 100 years ago, in the Bergman Österberg Physical Training College Magazine.
SECRETARY’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR 1919-1920
Read at the Annual General Meeting, July, 1920
Up to date the total number of Union members is 394, that is just about two-thirds of the total number of certificated students who have left the College since it was started. Twenty-six per cent. of the total number of old students are married, a few of whom still continue professional work.
During the last year the public activity of the Union has tended to become less; this is due, and quite rightly so, to the fusion of the B.O. Union with the Ling Association. Many of our members have joined the Ling Association, and we hope that more will do so. One cannot over-emphasise the importance of working for the profession as a whole and it is by joining the Ling Association and working there, with teachers from other Colleges, that we can best do this.
Kingsfield Old Students were well represented at the Ling Holiday Course in January last and found the week thoroughly enjoyable and helpful. The Union Committee wish to offer a word of explanation and apology to those members who were present because no arrangements were made for an Old Students’ meeting at the time set aside for such meetings. It was partly due to the fact that, as newcomers, they did not understand the mode of procedure, and also to the unavoidable absence of the secretary; a special effort will be made to arrange one next year.
The Committee would also like to draw members’ attention to the method of postal voting used in electing the Ling Committee. It is felt
45
that some people refrain from voting because they do not know any of the people nominated, and so many votes are wasted. It would be much better if, instead of simply doing nothing, they would consult either the proposer of the person they want to know about, or else their own Old Students’ Union, and then make a point of voting.
The second Conference arranged by the Ling Association was held on July 3rd this year; a full and interesting account is given in the Ling Leaflet, so that no comment is necessary here. The delegates from the B.O.U. were:- Miss O. Adams, Miss Chamberlain, Miss B.V Hobson, Miss Volkhovsky. Miss Collett and Miss Drummond were also present, the former as the representative of the B.O.U. on the Ling Committee and the latter representing the College Staff.
Commemoration Day was held on June 26th. Sir George Newman addressed the students, both past and present, and made a presentation to Miss Wikner on the behalf of the Committee of Management of the College. It has been suggested that Commemoration Day should in some way be made more different from an ordinary Union Day than it is at present, but so far nothing definite has been settled.
This year the Union has brought out its first publication - Serbian Kolos (National Dances), by Miss E.R. Clarke and Miss V. Edwards. When expenses are paid any profits are to be devoted to the Serbian Relief Fund; copies can be obtained from the Union Secretary, price 3s. each.
The Register has been somewhat enlarged. The Constitution and Rules are included and Old Students who are married are entered under both their married and maiden names. A further addition of both professional and home addresses has now been suggested and the Committee will probably consider this at their next meeting and would welcome some general expression of opinion.
As happens year after year, this report must conclude with an appeal that Old Students will keep the Secretary infomed of their where-abouts, change of name, etc. If everyone would make an effort it would greatly simplify the work of the Committee and save members themselves a great deal of unnecessary annoyance through notices, etc., not reaching them. HELEN DRUMMOND
Hon. Secretary, B.O.U.
46
THE
Bergman Österberg Physical Training College Magazine
Mens sana in corpore sano
No.1. 1920
MISS WIKNER
It seems a delightful coincidence that the KINGSFIELD COLLEGE MAGAZINE is being born in the Autumn 1920, that thus its inaugural number can pay its tribute to Miss Wikner, and record in the College Annals our lasting recognition of her splendid work and service: a work which was of twenty years’ duration and which was carried out with a loyalty and enthusiasm, a happiness and love, which can never be forgotten by anyone who was privileged to share in it and to be influenced by it.
It was in 1900 that Madame Bergman Österberg invited the then already well-known Swedish Gymnast, Miss Wikner, to leave her native country and come over to England to help in the training of her English students, and the building up of Gymnastics, Educational and Remedial, as a profession for English women. And it was in June of that year Miss Wikner came as Madame’s guest to Kingsfield, the place which, all unknown to her, was to be her English home for so many years.
In recalling old memories it seemed wonderful and almost touching to hear Miss Wikner say: “When first I saw Kingsfield and the work which was being done there, I said, ‘No, but Madame, I feel I ought never to be here working I feel I do not know enough; and when I really did begin to work I was so frightened that I absolutely forbade Madame to come to any of my classes for quite a long time: I felt I could never do the great thing she was asking of me, nor fulfil her expectations of me.” But, genius will out. And the fear and doubt were soon changed to quiet confidence and happiness as her innate power began to make itself felt in her work.
All her life Miss Wikner has been “a gymnast.” In her schooldays in Sweden her happiest hours were when she was racing about and “loving life” in some gymnasium. Once when the school sergeant left
47
and no gymnastic classes could be given, it was Alma Wikner - then a mere schoolgirl with no special training whatever, who begged permission of the Principal (and obtained it too) to be allowed to “drill the pupils herself”; which she did with huge enjoyment and splendid success.
Training as a student at the Central Institute of Stockholm followed her schooldays, but here (as was usually the custom then in Sweden) it was the Remedial Gymnastics she regarded as her work, looking upon Educational Gymnastics merely as a happy time of relaxation and physical enjoyment, and never dreaming for one moment that they could be “taken seriously,” or used as a great factor in the educational training of human bodies and minds; yet such were her skill and power in them that Professor Torngren, the much revered and widely famed Principal of the Central Institute, said to her: “Miss Wikner, you must never take up Remedial Gymnastics; you must take up Educational work”: thus, with keen insight, foretelling in what and where lay her quite specially wonderful gifts and powers.
Despite his advice, on leaving the Institute (1888) Miss Wikner, after only one year’s experience of teaching, took up Remedial work, and devoted herself entirely to it for the next nine years of her professional career; and though later (1897-1900) she combined Educational Gymnastics with her Remedial work, she is specially remembered to this day, in Sweden, for her great skill as a Medical Gymnast. It remained for Madame Österberg to open the way for her to a great work in England, a work which fostered her talent and has made her known all the world over, as a famous Educational Gymnast.
For, as Professor Törngren foretold, Miss Wikner is a born teacher, and her work as such has been a constant and never-failing happiness to herself, and inspiration to her students.
Her work in England began in October, 1900, and for four terms she taught at Broadhurst Gardens, Hampstead, the original home of the Österberg College. But in October, 1901, the Hampstead students were removed to Kingsfield, and it was in January the following year Miss Wikner began her work at College. From then till July, 1920, she has “carried on,” training--helping--and inspiring set after set of students. No one who has ever been in her classes can forget the thrill and inspiration of them - the happiness and enjoyment in them.
Everything she did was thorough in the extreme, and every branch of
48
the varied “training of a gymnast” interested her, while her open mind was always ready to receive new ideas and theories, which she tested and probed with all the keenness of a highly trained specialist, till she had mastered what was good in them, discarding all the rest. Nothing but the best would ever do for her, nor would she rest content until, scientifically and practically, she felt she had found it. And she enjoyed it all.
The one, and one only, thing she did not enjoy was the working up for Demonstrations, and of this she had her full share. “This,” as she naïvely puts it, “I really hated.” But so surely as one big Demonstration was ended, and almost as soon as ever it was finished, her first thought was, ”No - but we will do ever so much better next time,” and she always felt inspired to begin afresh at once, with renewed and greater vigour, the training for the next.
Old students will remember with pride the big London Demonstrations of 1905 and 1906; the Demonstration of 1908 at the Olympic Games; the little splendid and specially successful “miniature one” (if one may so name it) at St. James’ Theatre in 1909, when a complete gymnastic table was gone through “in perfection” in ten minutes; and later the Stratford-on-Avon one in 1910, in which the Kingsfield students, at the invitation of Sir Frank Benson, inaugurated the Shakespeare Festival Week of that year.
These, together with the numberless private demonstrations held at Kingsfield, gained Miss Wikner much fame, and were an “outward and visible sign” of her success as a trainer, the inherent and greatest token of which is the faithful carrying on of her work and ideals by the students she has “lived for.”
College parts with Miss Wikner with infinite regret, and while wishing her “Happy Days” in this time of well-earned rest, we, her old students and friends, add “Le souvenir est tout lorsque le cœur le garde.” And we
SHALL NEVER FORGET.
Brighton, A. ROTHERA. December 1920.
49
NOTES FROM THE REGISTRAR
Membership
Fortunately the total Membership of the Bergman Österberg Union seems to be relatively stable and we hope that this will be the case after this year’s annual renewals. At the moment, about one third of the membership renewed for three years at the end of 2018 or early 2019 and are not due to renew their subscriptions until 1 January 2022. Please encourage others to join the BÖU e.g. college friends who are non members and others with an interest, e.g. partners, who would like to become Associate Members.
**Where are the Old Students from 1980 -1986?**
Subscriptions
For the time being, subscriptions are being held at £10 per year; it is hoped that members will set up standing orders for payment in January for the annual payment of £10 and perhaps a small additional donation which would go to The Österberg Collection. BÖU bank details for BACS renewals are:
NatWest - Sort Code: 52-41-00 - Account No.: 10481389
Needless to say, cheques will still be welcome.
Please remember to keep us informed of changes to your contact details by contacting the Bergman Österberg Union Registrar c/o The Österberg Collection, North Kent College
Oakfield Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2JT
New members will need to complete a membership form which can be found on the website:- www.bergmanosterbergunion.org.uk
or can be posted to you on request.
Reunions
As you will see in the AGM reports we were delighted to welcome a number of the 1969 group, who were holding a reunion to celebrate fifty years of leaving college and in the evening were joined by more of the year at a hotel near the Queen Elizabeth Bridge/Dartford Tunnel; they began organising this reunion when many of them met in 2017 for the Honorary Degree ceremony, or perhaps began even before then.
2020 will be a special year for those who began or left college in 1950, 1960, 1970 and 1980, so we hope to see you on the first Saturday in September, or at least have a report and photos for the magazine of any reunions you have held elsewhere. Start planning now for reunions in 2021 and 2022! It takes time to update contact lists.
50
Returned Post As their post was returned, we would be grateful for news of: Joyce M. Fleuriot (Ingham; 1948) Audrey Sharpley (Mercer; 1948) Dorothy Clinton (Manders; 1945) last known address in Australia.
Deceased Members
Sadly, we have received news of the death of several members/old students; we would like to extend our condolences to the families and friends of all the following: Patricia Holden (Townsend 1952) April 2018
Peggie Gilliland (1942) February 2019
Marge Millar (1970) February 2019
Dorothy Devitt (Crowther 1940) June 2019
Sheila Middleton (Toplis 1947) June 2019
Doreen Vessey (Brown 1943) August 2019
Christine Coot (1974/75) Autumn 2019
Sandra Ramsay (1966) December 2019
Maureen Kenney (McHugh 1952) February 2020
BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION - BENEFIT FUND
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS 2019
51
BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS 2019
52
DIPLOMA BROOCHES
A number of Diploma Brooches are available to buy. All will be sold in aid of The Österberg Collection (formerly the Archive Fund).
There are two levels of pricing - £125 - if the provenance is known
£100 - for brooches with no known provenance
If you would like to buy or donate a brooch, please contact The Österberg Collection at this e-mail address: [email protected]
Thank you to those who have recently donated Diploma Brooches:
Anita Plater (Carnes 1956)
Thank you to those who have recently purchased Diploma Brooches:
Wendy Hurworth (Welfare 1967) Margy Bartlett (James 1973)
Mary Davies (Head of Alumni & Development, University of Greenwich) Peter Boreham (Vice-President, BÖU)
BESPOKE EARRINGS matching the diploma brooches are now available from the original makers of Madame’s brooch. If you would like a pair, please contact:
Julian Hart, Designer and Craftsman in Gold and Silver, The Guild of Handicraft, Sheep Street, Chipping Campden, Glos. GL55 6DS.
Price : £75.00 plus postage and packing
BÖU MAGAZINE 2021
The deadline for receipt of articles
for the 2021 magazine will be
31st December 2020 Items received after this date will not be
included in the 2021 magazine.
Please send contributions by e-mail to: [email protected]
THE BENEFIT FUND
Grants from this fund can be awarded to ex-students and ex-staff of Dartford College of Physical Education. We are in a good position to assist you if you are having difficulties financially, or if you know of anybody else having difficulties. Grants can be made towards a variety of purposes (which have been listed in previous magazines).
We have widened the scope of the fund and if there are any ex-students involved with children with special needs, deprived children or other similar groups, they could apply for a grant to assist them with this work. The Trustees of the Benefit Fund will discuss any applications and make awards on merit.
Grants for ex-students in financial need will always have first call on the Benefit Fund. Please write in confidence to apply for yourself or on behalf of another person to:
Benefit Fund Administrator, Bergman Österberg Union, c/o North Kent College, Oakfield Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2JT.
Alumni
With thanks to the University of Greenwich alumni team which funds and manages the printing and mailing of this magazine.
You can stay up-to-date with the latest news from the University of Greenwich alumni network on their website: alumni.gre.ac.uk
