MR. J. B. JONES

The death of Barrie Jones in a road accident on 19 December 1975 was a great shock to us all. He came from Treforest Secondary School, Pontypridd to Tal Handaq in September 1973. As form tutor, a teacher of woodwork and technical drawing, in his help with many activities, particularly the Karate Club and the Combined Cadet Force as a loyal and cheerful member of staff he contributed a great deal to the life of the school. He will besadly missed by pupils and colleagues. I know that his wife Susan would wish me to express her thanks for the help and kindness shown to her and the children Victoria and Katherine at the time of their sad loss.

During a farewell visit to the school, Captain Stanley presented the prizes for endeavour.

 Captain Stanley came to Malta as Officer in Charge of Schools, Malta and Naples, in May 1973. During his appointment he has been responsible for a number of administrative changes. Decisions such as those to close St. Davids and Verdala Schools cannot have been easy, that the changes have been accomplished smoothly and with little inconvience to pupils, teachers and other school employees owes much to Captain Stanley. The setting-up of the Teachers' Centre at Mtarfa was a happier and no less successful innovation. At Tal Handaq we have enjoyed his keen interest in the school's affairs, his advice and assistance. Despite these economies which have been made our administrators, somehow, have never failed to meet the school's needs and indeed to improve conditions for whenever the opportunity arose.            

     S.C.E.A. wives have good cause to be grateful to Mrs. Stanley for her direction of their activities and her experience as a social worker has enabled her to help a number of Service families in Malta. Their generous hospitality at Cambridge House also earned the gratitude of all sections of the schools' community. Captain & Mrs.. Stanley take with them our thanks and our best wishes for the future when Captain Stanley moves to his new appointment as Director Naval Management Organisation.

HEAD BOY: M. Barltrop. HEAD GIRL: V. Haste
  Prefects:  BOYS: R. Burns J. Davies R. Howorth M. Whelton D. Davies M. Hyland M. Dawson D. North S. Rippon T. Rowland M. Sheppard P. Traynor.
  Prefects:  GIRLS: JM. Glennon D. Jackson D. King L. Mockford L. Morris K. Morse L. Roberts A. Waghorn C. Williams N. Church A. Dowie J. Cartwright L. Graham L. Jeram D. Helliwell G. Male E. Graham C. Heffey K. Lamb J. Le Quesne J. Rennie M. Watts.

CAREERS AT TAL-HANDAQ
No, the title is not an advertisement but an announcement as to what is happening at Tal Handaq with respect to careers guidance.
The term "careers guidance" is relatively new in the language of the educationist. Not so long ago the mere mention of education for a vocation sent shivers down the spines of headmasters and other members of staff. Today we are more enlightened and accept the responsibility of not only equipping our senior students to take their rightful place in society and in their turn to become actively involved in the evolution of our culture, but also to make sure that they are sympathetically advised as to the types of careers available to them.
             Tal Handaq was lucky to acquire the services of a most enthusiastic new Careers Mistress, Miss Curtis whom most of the 3rd. Year students should have met for a personal interview by now. I have been doing the same with the 4th. Year and it is hoped that by the time this magazine is published all the 5th. and 6th. Year would have been interviewed by a visiting team of three Careers Officers from the United Kingdom.
           Of course, many parents get a little confused when children start 'being presented in the 3rd. Year with careers talks and become involved in interviews concerning job anticipation at the 16+ stage. The same parents I am sure encourage their offspring to clean their teeth because they know that if the child does not then sooner or later toothache and all that we associate with it develops. That's really what Careers Guidance is all about, the sooner we start the less likelihood of "careersache", if there is such a word, developing.
             What then are we doing at Tal Handaq about careers guidance? In support of the year interviews, previously mentioned, the students have the use of a large Careers Room which contains masses of relevant literature, attractively displayed on tables. Each table is sub-divided in areas where all the literature available for a particular range of careers, say Nursing, is on display. This literature is constantly being vetted and kept up to date, a no mean
feat when pay scales seem to change every other month. For those who wish to go on to further education. Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and the like,  a very large cupboard houses a wide selection of syllabi and material concerned with courses available in the United Kingdom. This is all backed up by a suitable selection of career books, film slides and tape-recordings.
               As Careers Master, it might be helpful if I mention which particular problems I experience in Malta, First! there is the problem of "Dad's posting." Most fathers only get about three months notice as to the whereabouts of their new station. Consequently when a 5th. former eventually gets around to applying for a job in say Wiltshire because Dad has been posted to Brize Norton, all the trainee jobs in that area have gone. Let's face facts, young people who are due to leave school in the United Kingdom this July started applying for jobs at Christmas so what chance have those returning from Malta?
                   Secondly Dad has another year or eighteen months to do and his offspring has Just finished the 5th. Year course and the student does not really want to go on further education via the academic 6th. Form. Most parents naturally fall into the trap of entering their offspring for the 6th. General course, which although a good one should only te used for topping up minimum "O" levels and C.S.E and is after all only a one year course.
               What then is the answer to these two problems. I sought guidance myself on this one and a solution would seem is that for the benefit of the leaver, it is better to send them back to the United1 Kingdom to start the training at the 16+ stage. Yes I know this raises the eyebrows of some of the readers of this article but when you face the facts it is really only common sense. It is easier to get training jobs at 16+ rather than 17 + . Even if a young leaver does manage to get a five year apprenticeship say in Wiltshire, it is possible that some time during that five year spell, Dad will be posted elsewhere. So why not let the young leaver go home, ideally to stay with "family" and if not than at a hostel associated with his training company? The Government have a scheme for financially helping those "unfortunates" who have to train away from home so no one need be out of pocket. 

               Finally almost as an after thought what happens if a senior student hunting for a job in the U.K. from Malta fails to get one? I say almost as an after thought because it was not so long ago that our 5th. and 6th. formers on returning to the U.K. could usually acquire the sort of training that they had been thinking about for some time. Unfortunately this happy situation went by the board last year and it would seem that with so much competition from out of work young people in the U.K. this year our senior students might simply have to join the end of the queue.                                                          Fortunately there is an escape route and the advice that I have been handing on to some dejected students is to apply for courses at the new Colleges of Further Education. You see, a very real problem for young people today is to actually commence training and by doing so to acquire a skill which throughout the rest of their lives they can market, this of course, has always been the case. Unfortunately today training opportunities are being cut back, even after a Government incentive of 25 million pounds to industry, directed at keeping their training programmes going. If a young Tal Handaq leaver then fails to get a training position on his return to the United Kingdom a course of 12 to 24 months at the local College of Further Education would change his search pattern from "that of looking for a job that will train him/her in a particular skill, to looking for a job that requires a skilled person and along with this goes the special bonus of being able to move on with the family when "Dad's posting" once again appears in "Routine Orders".

   THOUGHTS FROM A DUGOUT

                     Ron Ransom's Musings

               (All right, then: an OLD Dugout.)

I'd like to make two things clear: First, it's now far too long after the production of 'Oh, What a Lovely War' for an ordinary 'crit' to be of any interest, which is why the following are merely the musings of an ordinary member of the audience who saw the show twice.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Second, I take this opportunity of denying the malicious rumour that I was invited to attend as being the only person connected with Tal Handaq who can remember World War I.

I don't think anyone who hasn't lived through a world war can view this stage production with a genuine understanding of its basic attitude and atmosphere. (Which is known as Stirring it Up.) Arguments as to whether this was a happy choice for the School's December production are beside the point. It WAS chosen, and bearing in mind the very great problems confronting a youthful cast, it seemed to me that by and large it came off well.

It is ungenerous to a Producer who must have face tremendous problems to say that there appeared to be a few examples of miscasting? John Davies might have been given more to do, and so, I thought, might Mark Sheppard. As Sir Douglas Haig he came over on the second night on which I was present better than he did on the first. Which can't be said about the audience, who on second attendance seemed very stodgy and unresponsive. Peter Traynor sang well on both occasions, and Lee Pape — who had a difficult role to pay — also gave a good performance.

The two 'stars' among the solo singers were undoubtedly Veronica Haste and Debbie King. Veronica's rendering of 'Belgium Put the Kybosh on the Kaiser' and 'I'll make a man of you' was exactly right. And her enunciation was perfect. As soon as I reached home I listened to my record of "the songs sung by the original 'Theatre Workshop' cast, and — as I supposed would be the case Veronica's words were more clear. Debbie's voice was delightfully sweet in 'Hitchy-coo' and most sincere and sympathetic in 'Keep the Home Fires Burning!, the effect in this second song being considerably enhanced by the convincingly "wrapt" expression on her face. I think she enjoyed as much as I did the moment during the harangue by the pacifist lady when for a few moments she assumed an accent very different from her normal pleasant one!

An incomprehensible thing to me was that Dave Taylor  was not called on stage for the final curtain. I know he was a "disembodied voice", but his four solos were a vital part of the musical side. Suffering from an appalling cold which was making him, cough and wheeze like a Bectrain camel, he sang his solos beautifully, his extremely pleasant tenor voice coming from off-stage with perfect — and in at least one case genuinely moving —clarity. If I'd been there on the last night, I'd have gone on shouting till he DID appear!

Summarising: the whole show 'hung together' and the mood came over remarkably well when one considers that young people of 17 or 18 cannot (fortunately) possess the experience which might serve as a background to an understanding of the cynical bitterness and fatalism which characterised the soldier of the

                                                                                               T. Rowland, J. Thompson, D. Beckett and J. Davies prepare for bayonet drill.

First World War at any time after about 1915. It's true, as one or two people have pointed out, that the diction of some of the male members of the cast was neither clear nor pleasing to the ear, but the critics may have have forgotten that the whole cast had perforce to be  chosen from a small group of pupils, and an habitual manner of speaking is hardly likely to be changed during the comparitively short period of rehearsal for a show.

who sent their ill-equipped armies into a seemingly senseless,               bloody war that claimed millions of lives. We realize that to some of the audience the story was : probably too much of a 'knock' at Imperialist Britain.    In the outcome, I feel these opinions should be discounted for this play proved to be more than a pessimistic recollection of war. The message of the play cannot be ignored, and it was a sad message. But for the cast, it was from the first rehearsal Oh! What a Lovely Show to do ... I feel the cast is not meant to worry about the moral issues of the piece they are performing, so we all just did our best to make it a good show. From our point of view it was an excellent choice as a school play. Each of us had almost equal parts, with no principal parts as such. Most of us were on stage for most of these scenes and this gave a nice feeling of team-work and a happy atmosphere always prevailed. The play was one of the first to use film-slides - - scenes with captions being projected onto a backcloth during the unfolding of the story. I suppose it was mainly the boys' play and how could boys be self-conscious on stage while playing soldiers? But their versatility was called; upon too as each had a variety of parts and they did a great job on the different accents— Irish, French, German and American. The Irish jig scene was hilarious and the humour, bawdiness and depression of the trench scenes must have appealed as they came over very well. The girls in the company were not to be ignored of course. We added glamour, colour and dancing. Without us it would have been a!l uniforms and rifles. The touching songs appealed to the more sentimental females, while the boisterous and more military roles we were called upon to play were a challenge from the usual feminine roles.  Our show provided us all same wonderful memories, affectionate ones for everyone concerned with it and grateful ones for our super directing team. Many of us were sad that as 6th formers this was our last show at Tal Handaq. I hope our  successors get as much

Rehearsals began with vitality and a laugh was had by all. All too soon we began to realise how big a job we had let ourselves in for and the problems we would face. A certain member of the cast had a line: "They are all Yids" and without realizing said: "They are all Kids". The cast fell about the stage laughing merrily, much to the consternation of our producer who cracked the whip and sent us all back to work. Dance routines had to be learnt; this being the cause of much amusement. At first we looked rather like a bunch of robots trying to do an impression of the Black andWhite minstrels, but they soon began to smooth out and they play was taking shape. After a month of doing the play everything was cast aside (slight pun there) and people began to eat, sleep and breathe the play. The day of doom or stardom was coming ever closer and the cast worked relentlesly to polish their lines to perfection. Members of the cast could be seen waltzing down corridors reciting lines to an invisible partner.

The day came when we put our costumes on bobbles were in abundance. Most of us looked like we just escaped from the Andy Pandy show and some of the boys looked like the men who beat the lumps out of Homepride flour. The opening night arrived and a suicide was the topic of conversation. The atmosphere was tense exciting, fingernails were being bitten, by people who never done it in their lives, and backstage atheist members of the cast were praying fervently. Suddenly, before we knew it we were on stage in front of a large audience, singing and dancing. The four nights of the play went off very smoothly except for a unfortunate incidents, like one of the girls losing voice just before she went on stage and another getting her dress caught on the scenery while walking onto the stage.

Although the play was funny, I think it manage put across to the audience how wasteful and futile first World War was. The cast would like to thank everybody who did hard work behind the scenes and we  also like to thank the producer, and choreographer and musical director.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The Lower School was entertained, on the afternoon of 15th. December, to a Christmas concert produced by various members of Staff, including Miss J. Stansfield, Mr.J. Bonner, Mr.. T. Ricketts, Mr. B. Charnley and Miss M.Sherwin.

The items, performed by children mainly in 1st. 2nd.and 3rd. year, consisted of the singing of carols, (with full audience participation), a recorder group; readings of prose and poetry; dance and drama.

The Junior Choir, trained by Miss Stansfield, gave us a variety of beautifully rendered carols, ranging from the traditional: "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" to the more modern: "Cowboy Carol"..

One of the highlights of Mr. Bonner's recorder group was their accurate and very pleasing rendering of "Shepherds' Farewell". The team work of the group was most praise-worthy and they obviously enjoyed playing their items.

Various poems and Christmas readings, chosen by Mr.Charnley and Miss Sherwin, were ably delivered by pupils from 2nd., 3rd. and 4th. year.

Sarah Wollaston was particularly clear; her voice carried right to the back of the Hall.

HOME ECONOMICS EASTER DISPLAY

One or two of the girls led small sisters or brothers firmly down the cat-walk, proudly wearing garments made by big sisters. The performers, though a little nervous,  showed assurance and poise.

As well as the clothes that were displayed on the catwalk, the Hall had been decorated with stalls containing handicrafts. The appliques aroused special interest from the visitors. These had all been designed and made by the girls themselves and showed skill in hand and machine embroidery. After the exhibition of garments, the visitors were invited to see the cookery display.

The delicious-looking dishes in the cookery room this year (after all it was Easter) were based on eggs. Crisp meringues, creamy mousses, graceful choux pastry

 swans, as well as the more traditional Swiss rolls, macaroons and short-crust pies and tarts, were in tempting array. All the food had been prepared in school by the Senior girls, led by Miss Hill and Miss Wilson.

Sue Johnson and Rachel Le Quesne 4th. Year

GRAND FILLING OF TAL HANDAQ

               POOL VIVARIUM

Early in January a group of Commandos swept down   past the buildings to set up (a?) H.Q. near the edge of the field. They rapidly dug in and prepared to repulse the natives. As expected, the natives surrounded them — time and again — in raids' always preceded by bells rung by their chief.

The soldiers were mercilessly bombarded with questions:

"Are you digging for oil?""Is this the new Qormi roundabout?"

"What are you doing Saturday night?" "Is it going to be a swimming pool?"

"SWIMMING POOL!!!" echoed Mr. Ricketts, polevaulting from the other side of the field."At last they are going to give me the pool they have been promising for ten years." He was spotted and quietly led away by the whitecoated staff of the Science Dept. and told: "It's a vivarium — it's for newts and toads, and best of all it's free, except for the price of the concrete".

Seriously though, we really appreciate the efforts of 41 Commando Support Company in making us this pond and vivarium. We hope to colonise the island with mostly amphibians and reptiles. The moat and pond should support  a variety of life forms, and the whole thing should even look good when vegetation springs up after the September rains. Please don't be unkind to any of the animals which will live on the "island" ;— and those of you who would have preferred a swimming pool, resist the urge to pull out the plug as you go past!

                                             SOCCER 1st XI

                                    FRONT ROW: P. Egan; S. Lisicki; G. Wallington; D. North (Capt.) C. Churchward, G. Booth

                              BACK ROW: G. Lyon; D. Beckett;  J. Taylor; S. Rippon, D.Taylor; L.Churchward; P. Bennett; N.Sillence.

           

This season, 1975-76, has been a good one for the 1st. XI. At the time of writing, with the league season still incomplete, there are prospects of promotion to Division 1. The team played consistently good soccer always relying upon skill and speed against invariably bigger and older opponents. The highlight of the season, I feel was the 2-2 draw with a powerful Green Howards side when the soldiers scored in the last minute to even matters. An important requirement for any team is to have a good leader and in this respect we were fortunate to have Dave North as captain. Dave's strength and ability on the field plus his conscientious approach combined to give theteam fine leadership by example. The team remained fairly settled throughout the yearand was fortunate to be able to draw upon a nucleus ofplayers who had been "blooded" the previous season. Jeremy Taylor, in goal, played with supreme confidence showing agility and athletic ability. Dave Taylor and Dean Beckett progressed throughout the season emerging as reliable effective defenders. The centre backs Gary Wallington and Nick Sillence complemented each other splendidly and were usually a match for any forward line. In mid-field, the mighty atoms, Paul Bennett and Gary Booth worked like Trojans both in defence and attack whilst Clive Churchward's left foot added much skill to this department (the rest of Clive did well too!) Up front Larry Churchward operating on the left side of the field showed flair and expertise and his linking with twin brother Clive probably caused many opponents to wonder if they were suffering from double vision. Gary Lyon, in the centre, often resembled a marauding Vikingbut was top scorer scoring may goals from less than half

chances. At outside right Steve Rippon was fast and elusive sometime even with the ball. Special thanks to Garry Dimech and Paul Egan who were usually substitutes — an unglamorous but very necessary role.. It. is also pleasing to report that in an age where sportsstars behave like a truculent two year-olds that without exception the team played with good humour and in a most sporting manner making for an enjoyable and satisfying season. TEAM RECORD                                                                  Played 19  W 9  D 3  L 7   F 53  A 44 LEADING GOALSCORERS                                                      G. Lyon 12, N. Sillence 8. L. Churchward 7, S. Rippon 6, J. Taylor 5. FULL SOCCER COLOURS                                                        D. North, N. Sillence. HALF SOCCER COLOURS J. Taylor, D. Taylor, D. Beckett, G. Booth, P. Bennett, C.Churchward, S. Rippon, G. Lyon, G. Wailington, L.Churchward. SCHOOL XI A special thanks is extended by the team to our very own Brian dough alias Mr. Newton. Our "Brian" hasworked as hard and has been rewarded with the fineresults produced by the team.   David North

SERVICES SCHOOLS MINOR SOCCER LEAGUE FINAL POSITIONS: Pts. Luqa 9 Alanbrooke 8 Cunnigham 4 Verdala 4 Tedder 3 St. Andrews 2 INTER HOUSE SIX-A-SIDE FINAL POSITIONS: Pts Alanbrooke 10 Cunningham 4 Tedder 4 INTER HOUSE RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL PLACINGS: Pts. Tedder 5 Alanbrooke 4 Cunningham 3 FINAL SEVEN-A-SIDE RUGBY PLACINGS Pts. Cunningham 17 Alanbrooke 9 Tedder 4

RUGBY This year it was good to see Tal Handaq put out  team against other sides. Although mostly playing against with more weight and experience than us, we managed to put up good opposition and in most cases keep the fairly close. Although the scrum went down against the scrums, they put up a good fight and many a time the ball came out to our advantage. Nick Morse and Traynor were the backbone of the scrum with both setting up some good ruck work, using their experience of the game. Nick Sillence was a valuable asset in the three's, in one match scoring three tries and two conversions. Taylor made some good runs in most matches using his powerful stride to a goad advantage. To end the season a sevens tournament was held at Safi. Our first match was against 41 Commando A, eventual winners of the tournament, and we lost. We into the semi-final of the losers plate, where we played St. George's B losing 10-24 with Mark Sheppard scoring two tries and one conversion to make Tal Handaq's 10 points. The leading try scorer was Mark Sheppard with 5 tries, Nick Sillence gaining 4. The team would like to thank Mr. Charnley for all his help. Mark Sheppard  Captain

                                               RUGBY

VOLLEYBALL This year, for the first time, volleyball was introduced into the School's sports programme, and a school teamentered in the J.S.V.A. knock-out competition. The School was drawn against 234 Signals Squadron and 41 Commando 'A' in its section of qualifying rounds.  Unfortunatedy the Commandos failed to produce a side and in our only match of the day we defeated 234 Signals. Although losing the first set easily the team fought back to take the second and third sets. This match showed everyone present that what the team lacked in experience was compensated by individual skills and determination. Coming top of the section, the school team now entered the quarter finals and was drawn against 840 Signals. Again, however, our opponents failed to turn up. Therefore the team received a bye into the semi finals. Our opponents in this round were 203 Squadron. Theairmen took the first set 15-4, and to the supporters it locked as if the School was: in for a trouncing. However, this was not to be and the team came back through some very good serving to win the second set 15-8. In the end, the height and experience of the 203 team proved decisive and they took the final set 15-4. All the players played exceptionally well and it will be unfair to mention anyone in particular. The games were enjoyed by all and our thanks go to our coach, Miss Loughran. The team consisted of the following: J. Taylor, G. Booth, N. Sillence, M. Sheppard, D Taylor, M Orr, M.Hyland, and S. Whelton. Jeremy Taylor Volleyball Captain	BACK ROW: N. Sillence; G. Lyon; M. Sheppard; D. Taylor;         FRONT ROW: S. Whelton; J. Taylor (Capt.); G. Booth.
NETBALL A TEAM: BACK ROW: E. Chapman; E. Watts; S. Fothergill; T. FRONT ROW: N. Church; J. Waghorn (Capt.) J. Day	SCHOOL NETBALL Playing in a largely adult environment the acl ment of the school A side during the 75/6 season most creditable. There was a steady improvement in performance throughout the season and an excellent! unselfish team spirit has developed. It would be invidious individuals in what is essentially a team game; it would however be quite wrong not to give a great deal of credit to our trainers Miss Lattimer and Miss Loughran in all a successful season. J. Waghorn Captain INTER HOUSE SWIMMING SPORTS The Inter House Swimming Sports, held at Robb Lido on a glorious July morning, showed the spectators the aquatic talent of many of our pupils. After a very exiting and entertaining display, Alanbrooke triumphed over other two houses. FINAL POSITIONS: ALANBROOKE 226 pts. CUNNINGHAM 172 pts. TEDDER 131 pts.
BOYS HOCKEY 1st XI The season opened with only four of last year's players remaining, and a team was raised initially only by persuading several members of the Fourth Year Soccer squad to substitute a small, hard ball for a large soft one, and to hit it with an unfamiliar curved stick. Merely half a team was available before they were flung headlong into the fiercely competitive Malta Junior League by which time Lee Pape, intrepid goalkeeper had bade us farewell.        It redounds much to the credit of Captain David North, therefore, that the enthusiasm of this young side was disciplined into controlled skills, and that notwithstanding many defeats by older and vastly more experienced teams, Tal Handaq were never overwhelmed and never demoralised. At times, they dominated play in mid-field for over half the game, and only weak finishing deprived them of more victories. The defence, very fragile at first, matured considerably during the season; Martin Beresford, Pape's replacement, proved himself a courageous goalkeeper, and the backs gradually learnt the skill of marking and covering (albeit the hard way!). Though winning only two of their eight League matches, the team defeated a mixed Staff XI 2-1. In the Inter- Services Six-a-side competition, the squad impressed the adult opposition and spectators with the quality of their hockey, and were deprived of a place in the Semi-final, by only one goal.    Above all, they enjoyed themselves.	Malta Junior Hockey League Results: P     W    L   GOALS FOR    GOALS AGAINST 8       2       6              6                         15 1st. XI Players: A. Basson; I. Heffey; S. Oliver; N. Hall; A. Copsey; P. Kitson; K. Stoddardt  M. Beresford;V. Helliwell; J. Russell; D. North (capt.) Also played: C. Brennan; P. Heffey; M. Sheppard. R. Cowan; S. Hill; D. Green; M. Hyland; U 14 XI Growing interest in hockey amongst Third Year boys led to two friendly games against De La Salle College U14's of which the first was drawn and the second won. Against the Tal Handaq Girls' 1st. XI, the boys won 1-0. Enthusiasm was high at the end of the season, and it is hoped all players will continue to practise their skills and that those remaining at Tal Handaq next season will aspire to 1st XI places. Players: A. Blackham; M. Egan; K. Hancock; R. Kindle; S. Taylor; D. Walker. S. Barrett; P. Davison; D. Green; S. Hill (capt.) C. Sampson; C. Brennan; S. Gallic; P. Heffey; K Niblock; M. Wakeham.
ORIENTEERING This year's competition took place in an area of open, rugged country to the west of Rabat. Following a practice run over the local Tal Handaq circuit, each house entered boys team and a girls team from each year group within the school, the teams comprising of two pupils in each case. In this way the competition becomes both an "individual' and house championship. The competition was designed to test the ability of competitors to plan and follow a route plotted on a map sheet, paying due regard to the nature of the terrain and to the time limit imposed, in such a way that the check points visited would give the greatest possible points score, with the avoidance of penalty points for arriving late at the finish point. From the competition results, two points in particular are worthy of comment: (1) Physical stamina, although important, is not by any means the most important factor in accumulating a good points score; 2) it is very important to keep to time and avoid penalty points. RESULTS: BOYS Team Winners:— Alanbrooke First, Second, Third and Fifth Year teams and Tedder Fourth Year team — all with 70 points. GIRLS Cunningham Second Year team. HOUSE Boys 1. Alanbrooke 32 points 2. Tedder 22 points 3. Cunningham 18 points HOUSE CHAMPIONSHIP 1. ALANBROOKE 48 points 2. TEDDER 40 points 3. CUNNINGHAM 56 points Girls 1. Tedder 26 points 2. Alanbrooke 24 points 3. Cunningham 22 points	HOCKEY SIX-A-SIDE           COMPETITORS       BACK ROW: A Gallow; M. Shroll; G. Seth; D. Gibbons.                 FRONT ROW: B. Cartwright; D. Wakeham.
INTER HOUSE BASKETBALL Tedder came out top of the Inter House  Basketball Championships.     The results were as follows: SENIORS: ALANBROOKE 8 v CUNNINGHAM 10 ALANBROOKE 16 v TEDDER  13 CUNNINGHAM  2 v TEDDER  6   COLTS ALANBROOKE 20  v CUNNINGHAM 8 ALANBROOKE 4 v TEDDER  5 CUNNINGHAM  6 v TEDDER  8 FINAL PLACINGS:  P   W   L  F   A   Pts 1st. TEDDER               4   3    1  32  28   6 2nd ALANBROOKE  4   2    2   48  36   4 3rd. CUNNINGHAM  4   1   3   26  42   2 CROSS COUNTRY As usual the final of the Cross Country event caused great excitement, with the whole school turning out to watch the finish of the Senior race. JUNIORS: 1st G. Hanns (A) 2nd1. K. Greenwood (T) 3rd D. Dove (T). COLTS- 1st. K. Stoddart (T) 2nd. G. Whelton (C) 3rd. S. Dove (A). SENIORS:1st. M.Whelton (T) 2nd. N. Sillence (T) 3rd. M. Sheppard (A) FINAL PLACINGS: 1st. TEDDER 148 pts 2nd. ALANBROOKE 152 pts. 3rd. CUNNINGHAM 232 pts.	NETBALL B TEAM           BACK ROW: M. Watts; S. Long; A. Dowie; J. Wiggins                 FRONT ROW: S. McKinnon; T. Giles; G. Holt (Capt.).
SOCCER HOUSE MATCHES SENIORS: ALANBROOKE  v CUNNINGHAM 5-3 10-2 ALANBROOKE v TEDDER   3-1 7-2 CUNNINGHAM v TEDDER 0-1 1-4 COLTS: ALANBROOKE v CUNNINGHAM 1-1 0-3 ALANBROOKE  v TEDDER  2-1  3-0 CUNNINGHAM v TEDDER   4-0 6-0 JUNIORS: ALANBROOKE v CUNNINGHAM 0-1 5-0 ALANBROOKE v TEDDER  4-0 0-0 CUNNINGHAM v TEDDER  1-0 4-2 FINAL PLACINGS: FINAL TABLE ALANBROOKE  12 8 2 2 40 14 18 CUNNINGHAM 12 6 1 5 26 28  13  TEDDER  12 2 1 9 11 35  5 ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS: In this year's Athletics Finals, Alanbrooke again triumphed over their rival houses. It seemed clear at the start that Alanbrooke was going to win, but the final scoring was very close. 1st ALANBROOKE 478 pts. 2nd CUNNINGHAM 463 pts. 3rd TEDDER 428 pts.	HOCKEY 1st XI                 BACK ROW: S. Wollastcn; D. Gibbons; B. Shaw.                  THIRD ROW: G. Seth; M. Shroll; F. Corbet.                SECOND ROW: C. Heffey (Capt.), D. Wakeham; D. Cahan.                      FRONT ROW: B. Cartwright; A. Gallow.

                                                      OPEN DAY 1975

                                                                                                              A display of Fifth Year Art Work

          

  

                                                 SCHOOL STAFF

FRONT ROW: Sylvia Beckett; Brian Leonard; Norah Ash; Mavis Turner; Barry Whewell; Stephen Singleton; Margaret Sherwin; Commander Derek Stubbs; Lt. Cdr. David Nield; Lt. Cdr. Tony Richards; Margaret Loughran; Jennifer Rae; Lesley Shone; Trevor Ricketts. 

SECOND ROW: Barrie Menhams; Colin Christmas; Frank Kitson; Kenneth Winn; Imelda Dickinson; Moira Clarke; Marjorie Clark; Laurence Bezzina; Michael Caseley; Anne Nelson; Hilary Hill; Michael Newton; Carl Hancock; Brian Charnley; Martin Holland; Helen Wilson; David Taylor; Charles Laing; Ian Hesketh.

BACK ROW:John Clemens; Sandra Camilleri; Jeffrey Bonner; Judith Stansfield; Philip Allen; Linda Curtis; June Lattimer;  Gerald Davey; Alan Latham; Lew Finnis; John Hughes; Hugh Ritchie; Paul Goss; Robert Woolams; James Slide.

ABSENT: Marian Spray; Walter Lewington; Diane Scott.

 

SUBBUTEO KNOCKOUT The knockout competition proved to be very exciting, with sixteen teams in all taking part. Leeds United (F.Wiggins) won the cup after very hard games in the semifinal and final. It took two replays and then penalties to finally decide the winner of the semi-final game between Leeds and Zebbug (John Jefferson), while in the other semi-final game West Ham (R. Mooney) played well to beat Ipswich (C. 'Bell) to go on to the final to play Leeds United. FINAL Leeds United (F. Wiggins) v West Ham (R. Mooney) West Ham took an early surprise lead and then some minutes later increased it to 2-0. Luck seemed to have deserted Leeds, but a good shot from just inside the area made it 2-1. Soon after though West Ham scored again to make it 3-1. No more goals were scored until half way through the second half when Leeds scored. With the score at 3-2 Leeds snapped up a mistake in West Ham's defence to equalize. It was still 3-3 at full time, and extra time was added In extra time it took a finger tip save by West Ham's goalkeeper to stop Leeds from getting the winning goal, but he could do nothing to stop another shot which, after hitting three defenders went into the net, this goal was Leeds winning goal, and they won the cup 4-3. The competition was played in a very sporting manner. M. Lamb (2A)	THE STAMP CLUB The Tal Handaq School Stamp Club has been held each Tuesday lunch time in 14R since September of last year. Most people, like squirrels, collect something and it is interesting to note that philately has become, if not always a consuming passion, certainly an interesting pastime to more and more people each year. Most of the members of the school Stamp Club are boys one to four. A number of girls, however, have shown interest. The two most popular ways of collecting stamps are by country or by theme. Not surprisingly the most popular collecting country is Great Britain, followed by other countries of the British Commonwealth, particularly Malta. As far as the thematic collecting is concerned', this has proved of interest to the girls who enjoy the bright sets of animals, birds and flowers issued mainly by the Eastern European countries and the Arab States. Collecting of First Day Covers by the Stamp Club members has also proved to be popular and interesting. At the Stamp Club meetings there has been opportunities to compare, buy, sell and exchange stamps for the mutual benefit and enjoyment of all. It is hoped that a competition can be held towards the end of the year.
COMBINED CADET                        FORCE Tal Handaq School CCF has gone from strength to strength this year, building on the solid foundations establishedpreviously and despite the massive turnover in cadet strength. Of the 62 cadets from both sections enrolled at the time of the Annual General Inspection, March 1975 only 16 cadets were still on roll in September 1975. However, a very good response from third year boys and an important influx of senior boys boosted the strength rapidly so that both sections have been operating with a cadet strength of plus 30 since last September. There has also been changes to the officer establishment, with the departure of Sub. Lt. D. Ditcham and the pending departure of the Contingent Commander, Flt. Lt. D.J. Taylor. The RN Section is now commanded by Sub. Lt. M. Newton assisted by Sub. Lt. J. Hughes. The RAF Section was commanded by Flt. Lt. A.J. Allen, but he has now taken over command of the Contingent. Plt. Off C. Laing now commands the RAF Section assisted by Plt. Off. I. Hesketh. Of the many and varied activities by both sections during the year the highlight must be the 24 hour exercise superbly organized and handled by Lt Williams and Sgts. Harvey and Young of Recce Troop, 41 Royal Marine Commando. The RAF Section has mounted the following activities during the year: canoe building, aircraft model-making, armed instruction -and shooting, drill, and general proficiency Instruction Parts 1, 2 & 3. Instructors from RAF Luqa have provided courses in: Principles of Flight; Flying; Airframes; Flight Safety; the Airfield and ATC; the RAF and role; the Nimrod; Engines etc. The Section entered a team in the national Air Cadets small bore shooting competition - - the Assagai Trophy. Of the 30	cadets who sat the December and March 2 HQAC Examinations; 4 received Credits; and 10 received Passes. One senior cadet obtained his A & B Certificate of the BGA following a continuous gliding course in the UK. The Section hopes to take delivery of a primary glider during the summer holidays for cadet training over the next couple of years. 26 cadets attended this year's Easter Camp at Hal Far. The Section has also visited  a number of Service units on the island. The following personnel from RAF Luqa have acted as instructorsduring the the year: Sgts. Brennan, Daglish, and Thomas; Chf TechHurley; Flt. Sgts. Cox & Smith; Fg. Off. Lawrence; Lts. Bray, Millar, Thomas, and Willmott. Sqn Ldr Fielding and Flt. Lt. May as ACLO and Deputy ACLO respectively have been responsible for Air Experience Flights and it is of interest to note that the Section have loggged some 200 plus hours flying with 203 Squadron since Feb 1975 The RN Section has offered, in addition training and drill, a wide range of practical and theoretical activities. Cadets have taken courses in: First Aid; Fighting; and Navigation. Cadets will take their Proficiency Certificates in these subjects. Instruction has also taken place in: Shooting and Safety; Rock Climbing Sailing. During the summer term the Section hopes to do more sailing and are in fact in the process of constructing a Mirror sailing dinghy. The Section intend to make full use of the canoes which were built last year by he Contingent and hope to do some snorkelling. It is hoped that some 12 cadets will be taking their Naval Proficiency Certificate in the Autumn Term in order to be eligible for promotion to Cadet Leading Seamen. 23 cadetshave so far qualified as Cadet Able Seamen. Noteworthy among the Section's visits to Service Units on the island was the day spent on board HMS Intrepid and visits to HMS Norfolk, HMS Keppel, HMS Hampshire and Comcen Lascaris.         12 cadets took part in the official closing ceremony of RNWT Zebbug. Such varied activities have taken place with the help and co-operation of RN personnel on the island and in particular the Section wish to thank L/S Sanderson, LMA Gary and CPO Christie of  HMS St. Angelo.
RAF/RN NIGHT EXERCISE ON       PEMBROKE RANGERS  (sic) The Night Exercise consisted of numerous events. We started with a tent exercise on how to construct tents, then we were given the apparatus and told to set up our own. We collected sleeping bags and camp beds and later on we collected ration packs and cooked our own dinner. At 11 o'clock we were sent out from camp at ten minute intervals so that we could carry out a night orienteering exercise of Pembroke Ranges. 41 Commando Recce Troop were spread across the ranges and anytime anyone came near a 41 Commando, they were fired at with bullets (blank!). We had to reach four points on the ranges and had to answer question at each point. One person sustained an injury on this camp. That was John Russell who managed to trip over on one of the ranges and break his wrist (very clumsy!) In the morning, (well at dawn, actually) we got up to an eyeful of sun and a mouthful of oatmeal. An hour later we were crossing a dry river bed and making rope stretcher. This was the last exercise before leaving Pembroke Ranges. The 41 Commando comments on this exercise were that the R.A.F. and R.N. Cadets were quite equal in neatness and efficiency. Paul Sheppard                                                                                                  R.A..F. Cadet	The year came to an end with a most successful Annual General Inspection at HMS St. Angelo. The Inspecting Officer on this occasion was Rear Admiral J.A. Bell, Director of Naval Education. The Inspecting Officer commended the Contingent for the high standard of turnout and was clearly pleased with the activities he saw taking place both at HMS St. Angelo and RAF Luqa. The Contingent wishes to acknowledge the support and help given by Service Units on the island and in particular the individual persons who assist so willingly with the training programmes.

                CREATIVE WORK: ART PROSE AND POETRY

 

	THE GREAT BRITISH SNAIL the British are a nation of molluscs. each and every one within a protective shell in which he (or she) can hide, and leave behind the horrors of the twentieth century. you read the papers you hear the news then you hide inside your little shell and wait for it to pass. you hear of the killing in Ireland, and the bombings in London, the pub attacks in Birmingham, but still you stay inside your shell and don't do anything for anyone. "You look after yourself" you say "and I'll look after me." and so the Great British snail trundles on amidst an atmosphere of gloom with each and every person within a protective shell.		HAVE YOU EVER SAT? Have you ever sat in the middle of a field watching Nature and Her ally, Time working in unison? Have you ever sat on the edge of a cliff watching the waves in their relentless struggle with the shoreline? Have you ever sat on top of a hill watching the countryside and its wonderful patterns and its wonderful patterns carefully arranged by some Unknown Hand? Have you ever sat? I wonder . . ? CIGARETTES Light up your cigarette                                                      Succumb to Mother Nicotine                                                     Feel the smoke fill your lungs                                               Caustic Cancer rules Supreme.
	SPORTS BigMn n smalshortz kntplaigmz. Thaionli lukefuls bt stl thiatri to recaptrememrys oftheform IV fstelevn. (with apologies to e.e. cummings) OLD MEMORIES REVISITED Half forgotten memories with a crumpled photograph reminding me of a yesterday and the happiness along the path. The path which is happiness which ends in the mists of time somewhere above the rainclouds where an eternal sun shines. But memories are built on sand in an hourglass' upper retort and are left to blow away when their base trickles to nought. And now my hour glass is finished and weeds have blocked the path so let the memories blow away and I'll reminisce over the photograph. Ian Simpson 6G

THE WEDDING The lake lay motionless in the purple light. The surrounding forest stood dark and mysterious. A mist hung over the lake, Slightly chilled. In the Black Forest, elves dance in the moonlight, The moon seems very bright, as, six, saintly, shrouded men move across the lake Slowely, with a seventh in front, a cross held high in hand. Lord of Lords, King of Kings, To a wedding went Lilith, Twilight Neonate, Daughter of the mists. Tristan, Gentle warrior, Baron of the holt. Both together brought tonight, Guests in deepest reverence bathed. Lilith, new-born, entwined in silk. Happy was her heart. Arresting silence filled the woods, Elves on mushroom pedestals watch. Zendik, wizard, performs his task. Happy was his heart, Celebrated ceremony, Revelling in ecstasy, Rings the dawning day. The sun sang to greet the day, The lake rippled in their path. As the "seven saintly forms rose high, Tranquility reigned. Murray Kirkham 5L.		LONELINESS I sit and think The thoughts go through my head People Busy people Rushing, hurrying, scurrying Wrapped up in themselves Not caring Not sharing No time That's the usual line All too busy Going their own way You are left alone Crying Dying No one cares Who is there No one! Is any one there? Lesley Stewart 6G THOUGHTS I sat, quiet, still As if by will, But no will of mine Did my thoughts combine. The will was theirs And theirs the law. They issue fares On all my cares And cares dissolve, Though problems solve And solve will mine, If given time. Deborah Helliwell L6A
SMALL HATTED FIGURE    DAWN KELMAN 2F APRONED FIGURE           KAREN LAMB 6G.		THE CROSS The light poured down in a silver pool, love shone all around.                          The angels watched in distress and we at the cross down on the ground. They cried and screamed and. wailed; the time was drawing near.                   The last few breaths came slow and few the face was filled with fear. The head hung low in painful death, a cold and beaded brow.                         The body limp with hatred nails God will take him now. The curtains draw across the stage. the sense is that of loss.                            The scene that conveyed the pain and death and glorious faith of the cross.   Jill Male L6G. WILD WIND Wild wind why do you howl? Making such a whistling noise.                       Smashing every window with your icy fingers,                                       Slamming every door with your cold voice,                                           Wrapping round people with your cold body,                                            Pushing everyone along with your heavy hand.                                             Please wind tell me why you do these things? Samantha Iles IB2.

DARKNESS Darkness, Blackness, Bats fly, Witches hover, The moon shines, A bright white. The grave yard, Scarey, Eerie. A scream . . . But most probably my imagination . . . Imagination . . . nation . . . nation . . . Kevin Stephenson 2C.		A PANCAKE DISASTER I slowly stirred the mixture, Then poured it in the pan. Mum said: "Here's the hard part, Catch it if you can!" I quickly gulped, then closed my eyes, And tossed it in the air. I heard Mum scream and it did seem, It had landed in her hair! Caroline Caldwell 1A2.
DREAMS CAME TRUE I watched the stars today, They are very far away, I wish I was up there With people made from hair, Or perhaps a funny man Who lived on tihe stars in a can. I then might become a racing car driver Or am Engineer with a screwdriver. The fun of winning a race, And meeting the king face to face. The joy of receiving the cup With a bottle of champagne to sup. I might fly a jet plane Through snow, sun and rain, Or to score the winning goal To vault bars with a pole If only dreams come true. S. Fairclough 2C.		CAULDRON The cauldron is BIG and BLACK, And there beside it sits a cat,    With big black paws —, And hanging jaws,                              Waiting, just waiting, to pounce.                                                        He hears a rat scratching, Scratching at the wood.                            The cat moves steadily — Not a sound can be heard                     Then suddenly the cat pounces. The rat had not a chance.                The cat carried back the meagre rat, Feeling pleased with himself.  Back to the cauldron Where a brew boils,                                         To be patted: by a scraggly hand, And once again return to his post. Beside the big, black cauldron. Jacqueline Potts 2C.

THE STORM As the sea rages on,                                                                                       Thick green mountains race each other,                                                         Coming nearer,                                                                                                 Getting closer to us,                                                                                        Faster! Faster! Running along.                                                                           There is no escape.                                                                                          Spray flies everywhere,                                                                                Tossing, turning,                                                                                         Crashing and churning.                                                                                 Making us rock                                                                                                The wind groaning, moaning,                                                                     Whistling, crying.                                                                                               Pushing the treacherous sea                                                                          Towards us. Eric Cook 1A2		THE SUNRISE A flicker of red, a tinge of orange, shine out over the fresh, calm, morning sea.                                                                                                           A cool, wispy breeze wraps itself around me.                                       Higher and higher, the sun pushes upwards, giving a warm, satisfying glow. A boat has just slipped out of the bay and is chugging lazily out to sea                                                                                                     Where it will sweep its near exhausted fishing ground.                              The sun still rises and the blackness of the night runs for cover in the corners. The sea road is awake now with cars dragging along the reluctant business man,                                                                                                         To where he will stay for hours pushing his pen, and grumbling. The sun is still there, caring about nothing, just throwing its warm tidings towards the now-alive earth.   Clive Wedlock 4th. Year.
THE LIGHTHOUSE Tall and white Flashing danger! A last outpost on a merciless sea Flashing a warning! Bright light, warm and friendly, Flashing danger! Pointing out cruel rocks with a long, yellow finger, Flashing a warning! Ships big and small are protected by its glow. Flashing danger! It stands through the centuries, Flashing a warning! Jacqueline Cohring 4K		A HARBOUR One day I was sitting on the quay fishing. Suddenly I heard the patter of feet behind me, it was the seagulls trying to steal up on me to snatch my bait, but I was too quick for them. They flew away in disorder screeching with anger. Just then a fisherman passed me on his way home. I noticed that his face was well tanned. I looked down at my float and saw that it was making ripples in the water as it bobbed up and down. I reeled in my first fish. That afternoon I caught several more and went home happy. Christopher Rodgers 1A1.

		MALTA Pasta, rags, buildings, smells, Shoats, bars, hills, Dust, aerials, pumpkins, bells, Heat, buses, mils. Angela Stapley 2A. THE WISE OLD OWL He sits up in his tree so high, Watching the sleepy clouds go by, He waits still night to hunt his prey, He never even hunts at day, He eats things like rats, and mice, He probably thinks they're very nice, His big eyes just sit and stare, Looking just here and there, Then up goes a great big howl. He is so clever, that wise old owl. Zarah Mackinnon 1A1
NIGHT Darkness creeps in from the eastern Slowly shutting out the light Slowly letting in the night. But somehow light remains, And the smiling stars begin to shimmer and shine, As if far out there; Past night's black velvet mantle. Is a light Searching for gaps between the threads of darkness, To make a path for the people below Who fear and dread the night Itself; Who comfort its innocent sounds Into weapons of evil. But what has night done to be feared so much? It just happened to be there, Somehow, Somewhere. Ruth Andrews 4th. Year.

                      LEADING A DOG'S LIFE
It's 9 o'clock p.m. now, I'm just going to bed, but before I do I have to write in my diary. 'Yawn'.
This morning: I woke up this morning with the feeling of being rather 'warm although it is the winter. I had only one blanket. What was wrong? Did I have a fever? No, I felt my forehead with a velvet like paw. As I raised my arm I found it was covered with soft brown fur. My legs also had fur on them. I was frightened what had happened? 'Was I changing into a Martian of some kind?' I asked myself trembling at the thought. I got out of bed only to find myself on all fours. I called, but my voice wasn't there, only a soft bark. Then I tried again, still a bark. I was terrified and I started to cry which made a funny whining noise. I walked, or padded should I say, across the bedroom  floor.                 'What will mum say?' I thought as I ambled across to the shut door.
To my horror I found I was neither tall enough or strong enough to open the door, so I tapped a couple of boxes onto the floor which
I climbed upon, then opened the door with great effort.
When I got out of the bedroom I ran helter skelter down the stairs to mum.
Mum of course kicked me, much to my surprise, out of the door and slammed it shut.
I fled, lost and unwanted in the world we live in today.
If only I coul talk to someone. I slowly walked out of the garden, my tail down, my eyes very sad.
I walked quietly around the town smelling the odd person's legs.I knew it was no good going to   my friend's     Finally, tired and weary, I lay down in a dark corner and slept. It must have been two hours or so before I heard a small excited voice 'Oh mummy', it cried, 'what a lovely
puppy can we keep him? Please say 'yes', please do'.
I must say I was insulted at being called a 'he' but on the whole I was just as excited as the little girl looking down at me. I pricked up my ears to hear her voice. Andrea, being the girls name, stared hard at her mother for a minute or two then at me. Her mother picked me up and carried me to their house. For dinner I hadmilk and biscuits.
This afternoon dragged by which was a change for it usually sped past. I was given lots of attention but still I was bored. I usually ran around the house jumped on chairs etc, but today I sat on the cold floor. Hands petted my head every two minutes and I felt sure I would go bald.
At about four o'clock Andrea took me out for a walk. We had got no further than two houses away when I got a tingling in my toes, then it travelled to my nose. I ran. I was scared. What was happening to me now? I felt that this time for sure I was changing from a human to a
Martian but to a human girl 'Susan Frame', crawling on my hands and knees.
Well I have written in my diary so could you now excuse me, but I am very tired so very t...i...r...
Susan Frame 1B1.                                          

 

SANQUAR HOUSE Looking at the house, I stand enthralled And standing see, the turrets, walls and windows Viewing haughtily the land and lake before them. I can almost hear the 'harpsichord, As it issues forth a sad and haunting melody To caress the ear, and penetrate the darkest mind. And as I stand alone I feel The aura of nobility reach out To gently flow through me, to make me noble too. But then the cold wind blows through me, And though I strive to keep the cherished dream Reality sweeps over me and brings me to the truth. The house now stands dejectedly Plagued with vandalism's swastikas on broken windows and splintered doors, The house is quiet, decayed, dead. Linda Mack 4th. Year.	CHRISTMAS The Christmas bustle has been and gone, The time for which we waited long, Was gone in just a flash of time, You've got your present I've got mine. I wonder what it was alj about? Why there are those with 'and those without? The message which we thought was dear, Was clouded over with commercial cheer. Perhaps well wait, And try again, Next year! Patrick Kiddle 2E.
DON'T STAY AWAY TOO LONG They very thought of home-leaving makes one think of leaving everything behind. Having been in Malta for six and half years, with a two year interval, I sometimes actually forget what it is like in the U.K. Unless you pick up a newspaper, and read about, and discover what is going on "at home", you virtually forget what sort of a country it is that you have left. One tends, abroad, to "pick up" that particular country's customs, forgetting, or at least not thinking directly of, your own native customs, EITHER: you normally tend to adore the 'abroad' country in which you are, OR: you normally loathe the country in which you are and look forward greatly to your homegoing. If you are an "inbetweener," you would be just as well to compare justly the various benefits living abroad as opposed to living "at home". The weather in Malta being far "kinder" than the weather in England. The cost of living — soaring in England, but staying moderate in Malta. The sun, the sea, the little polluted air. For those who favour history, there are many museums in Malta, beginning after the Great Siege of 1565. So there we have it, England and Malta. Let us not forget that we are (mostly) home-sick, and this makes us long to go back to the unify of the U.K. and whilst we anticipate going home, we wish we were never in Malta in the first place and so we feel unhappy, and criticise this island. There I leave you with some food for thought, and so let's make the MOST of being abroad, and the least of home-sickness — for the time being, anyway! Lawrence Richards 3D.	POTTERY WORK
PEOPLE AND PLACES MY GRANDMOTHER When my grandmother was alive she loved to tell me true stories of her childhood Here is one written as she told me: "Did you ever go hunting, Grandma?" I asked. "No," she replied, "I didn't go hunting with the boys. In fact the only time I had a gun in my hands, I almost caused disaster!" "Tell me about it," I begged. "Well," she said, "I was about nine years old, Reuben was thirteen and had just gotten his first gun. He was mighty proud of it, and neither Roy nor I was allowed to breathe on it, let alone touch it. Reuben and Pa had just come home from hunting, and we had just finished supper. Pa was reading by the door and Reuben was starting his homework at the kitchen table. Ma told me to sweep the porch and then the kitchen floor. I went out to the porch to find the broom. 'Mabel,' Reuben called, 'Shut the door. It's cold in here!' I hadn't intended to be out there long, but I went and shoved the door shut. This may have been what saved us from tragedy that night, I don't know. But I do 'know the Lord was looking after us. J turned to get the broom and found Reuben's gun beside it. Well, I thought, old bossy made me shut the door, so now he won't see me touch his gun! use turned towards the light in the kitchen and held it up to my face. I don't 'know how it happened', but somehow I pulled the trigger, and the gun jumped back and hit me in the jaw. I went sprawling on the porch, and that's the last I remembered until I woke up in the house much later. Ma told me what had happened in the kitchen, bullet came through the door and whizzed past Pa's Splinters from the wooden door stuck in his hair. Ma just turned from the table she had been working on to get a sharper knife. The bullet hit the very same table. Reuben had gotten up to get a book, and the went through the back of his chair. For a moment everyone forgot about me and then Pa brought me in, my face covered in blood. Ma threatened to 'tan the hide of but finally decided that black and blue face was enough punishment for me. I've never had much interest in since then, I can tell you!" Grandma laughed, "The Lord was good to us, protect my family from me!" Karen Smith 2A.	MY BROTHER My brother is a very unusual person, and even when I was young, trouble always seemed to come his way. When my brother — Mike — was going to join dad in Egypt, my mum was loaded with luggage, and she had my brother on reins. While waiting at the airport my mum, and many other women, bought a few drinks mostly alcoholic! Then they nipped off to buy a paper etc. -before entering plane. Meanwhile my brother, who had been tied up had undone the reins, then he joined a crowd people about to enter another plane. He ended up sitting in a seat on the plane for Singapore! The plane taxiing down the runway, about to take off, when it was discovers that an anonymous little boy was on the plane. Furious. the pilot had to taxi the great plane back to the terminus to unload my brother! After that, the drinks that had been left behind the counter, were discovered by my brother. Gleefully he drank all of them except the fruit juices and unalcoholic drinks. When my mother returned he was completely "smashed", and face down on the counter. Eventually my embarrassed mum staggered put to the plane, with her eldest son — Mike — hanging unconscious from the reins, on her arm, his feet just touching the ground something like a puppet! Her arms loaded with luggage, her face red, from the disagreeable, disgusted looks she received. That's a journey she won't forget? Mike is now twenty three years old and many such incidents have occurred through out his life. At my last place in Cornwall, he discovered a dead body on the beach. Also he blew up our garage. That was a complete disaster. He was very fortunate, and escaped with his life, but he doesn't have a fear of anything. He was in the garage filtering petrol from his car, with mum's best parafin heater burning merrily away. He left the garage, but when he again went to enter the garage, 'BOOM' the combination of petrol, paraffin and oxygen blew up our garage. It caused considerable damage, the concrete floor had a hole in it, the roof was non-existent and the door (metal) was practically the same. Mum's home brewed beer also blew its top! Many of our belongings also came to a sudden end. Shirley Swanson 3D.
SCARBOROUGH In summer, Scarborough is always busy with tourists. The peak tourist months are in summer. Every year more and more people make their way to the pleasures of Scarborough. Scarborough has two bays, the North Bay, and the South Bay. The South Bay is the busier of the two. If you look at the South Hay from the top of the castle in May, June, July or August, you would see a beach black with people. People crowd together everywhere. The sound of people's voices drifts with the wind. From the castle, it sounds like a thousand sea gulls, all crying at once. People have come to enjoy themselves. The smell of meat wafts from the market. You can smell fish, its aroma floating from the fish pier, where trawlers unload. Walking down to the foot of the castle, you arrive at the harbour itself. As you walk along the piers, you can hear the sound of outboard motors and boat engines. The boats speed up, out of the harbour and into South Bay. A smell of oil comes from their engines. Leaving the harbour, you pass Jimmy Corrigan's amusement arcade, and walk around the side of the castle. Here the smell of the sea is strong. Up above the sea gulls have made their homes in the cliff on which the castle stands. The cries of the sea gulls almost deafen you. Going around the foot of the castle, you come to the North Bay. This bay is too packed with people. The cliff lift moves up and down, bringing and taking people away from the beach. The North Bay swimming pool, crawls with tourists. Again there is a feeling of enjoyment. You can smell the Hamburgers and hot-dogs being sold at a stall near the beach. You can hear the shouts of the crowds, as they pass by on the minature railway. Taking the road on the left, you slip past the boating lake at Peashom Park, and make your way into the town again. Again you are among crowds. The shops which range from big department stores, to small traders, contain many people. People of all ages hurry to and fro, heading for the shops. Turning left at the bottom of the road, you walk down Queen's Street. Turning left again, you pass Boyes' Stores, and stroll on into the market. The market is very active, on each side of the building, and down the centre are the stalls, you can smell the food being sold. You can hear the calls of the proprietors. Leaving the market, you cross the road and go up the main street. You turn left and saunter up King's Street, and down the South Cliff. These are my favourite parts of the town. Here there is a feeling a grandeur You walk on past the town hall, and past the Grand Hotel, which is the oldest and when it was built, largest in Europe. You walk past the cliff lift, (the cliff lifts were the first of their kind in Europe, when they were built), and over the Spa Bridge. As you reach the other side you arrive at the Spa. Trudging wearily up the steps on the other side, you come on to the South Cliff. The South Cliff is a mass hotels and long houses, but it is very picturesque Walking up past the second cliff lift and the Italian Gardens, you arrive at the mayor road leading out of the town. You walk up this road and then turn right. After a long walk you reach Oliver's Mount, which was name after Oliver Cromwell. It is crowded up here, because of the view of the town you receive. You can also see the Mere from the Mount To finish the tour you retrace your steps and walk down the major road, back into the town, across the Valley Bridge, and finish your journey at the railway station. The railway station is a buzz, of activity, with trains coming and going There is much more to see, of a busy seaside resort in summer but to go inlo everything that can be seen would take a life lime. If you ever go to Scarborough for a holiday, it will probably be a holiday to remember. Gerard Tall 5K.	POTTERY WORK. GUM TRIP TO GOZO Thursday we set off on the ferry, Jumping for joy, and oh so merry. A bus was waiting at Mgarr, San Lawrenz was not too far. After the work was done that night, Off with the light, goodnight, goodnight. Friday we went to Ta' Pinu, When the bus stopped, out we flew, Statues, statues all over the place, Souvenirs of glass and lace. The museum visit was more like school, Lots of work, no acting the fool. A walk around the Citadel wall, If you jump it's a long way to fall. The next visit was to Ramla Bay, We hoped we could stay all day. Before we got to sleep that night, A beauty contest and a pillow fight. On Saturday a nice long walk, All we did was walk and talk. The treasure hunt was very good, lint we didn't find the clues we should. Hound and round we search in vain in every street and every lane. Back to camp we did return Out with books, (but not to learn) But to read them in the sun, Laughing, playing having fun. Sunday we returned to Malta by ferry, Not jumping for joy and not so merry. Wendy Adams 1A1   JOKEs A ship left Hong Kong with  a shipment of YoYos. On| the way it struck an iceherg: and sank 36 times. Rachel Atkinson 2B. What's the difference between a nurse and a dress maker? One cuts dresses and the oilier dresses cuts! Anon
THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS Many people go to Sicily for a holiday, but most do not realise that a great deal of pleasure can be gained by visiting the Aeolian Islands (more widely known as the Lipari Islands). The Aeolian Islands are constituted of a group of islands, some rather large, among these Salina, Vulcano, Lipari, Stromboli, Felicudi and Nicudi; others very small, little more than rocks projecting from the sea. When my family and I went to Sicily we visited but two of these Islands, Vuicano and Lipari. We caught the Hydrofoil from Milazzo, where we were camping, to Lipari and Vulcano. Vulcano was our first stop. Vulcano Island is little more than the dramatic crater of an extinct volcano, last active in 1890. The chief interest is in the extraordinary formations and volcanic features to be seen. In the north of the island are, Vulcanello. a volcano cone which rose from the sea in 183 B.C., the hot springs of Acqua Bollente and Acqua del Bagno and the Faragione della Fabrica from which alum is quarried. To the south are Monte Aria and the lower Cran Craters on which lies the Piano della Crandi and Fumarole, from which shoot jets of sulphur vapour. The whole island reeks of sulphur. I, myself couldn't stand the smell so I had to retire to the little village where a slight breeze was blowing My dad took a bath in the hot sulphur spring slapping on himself large handfuls of sulphur mud. Even today I think I can smell the sulphur on him! Their is a little mini bus that can take you on a short trip around the island. At one place there is a magnificent panoramic view of the islands. We got the S.S. Carravagio, a vehicle ferry that goes from Vulcano to Lipari to Milazzo, after a pleasant day spent on Vulcano. Between Vulcano and Lipari arc several spectacular basalt stacks, one of which Is over 200 feet high. Next day we caught the Hydrofoil to Lipari. Lipari is the largest of the groups the most densely populated (about 12,000 inhabitants) and the most highly cultivated, also the liveliest and best furnished with the amenities or life. After looking around the quaint little shops and streets of the town of Lipari we took a local bus to the north of the island. There we set about exploring. To our right lay the islands of Panarei and Basiluzzo and straight ahead the island of Salina. We were unable to see the summit of the volcano of Monte Sant' Angelo 1,950 feet high, which produced the strange pumice hill and the veins of volcanic glass or obsidian that are found about the island. We collected specimens of obsidean and pumice, and we teamed up with a party of French Geologists, where we chipped happily away with hammers and chisels conversing together in schoolboy French. The pumice quarries stand out like cliffs of talcum powder that crumbles if held too tightly. All in all we had a very enjoyable visit to the Aeolian Islands, a trip that is well worth the effort and at a very reasonable price. Stephen M. Taylor. 3D.	PEN AND INK DESIGNS   BAN THE BOMB CAN YOU IMAGINE A MUSHROOM CLOUD BILLOWING UP OVER THE LAND OF YOUR BIRTH DESTROYING EVERYTHING YOU REMEMBER THE MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD CAN YOU IMAGINE A CAPSULE OF SELF-PROPELLED, STEEL-ENCASED DEATH OBLITERATING YOUR DREAMS? EXPLODING IN A FOREWARNING OF THE HARSH REALITY WHICH IS NUCLEAR IF YOU CAN IMAGINE THAT MY FRIEND THEN BAN THE BOMB Ian Simpson 6G. JOKES What has black and white teeth and swims in the ocean? A piano tuna. Catherine Spanton 2A. What is born to succeed'' A budgie without a beak' Gay Adams 3E.
TRIP TO GERMANY My best friend who lives over the road has a German cousin called Martin, who visited Malta last year and we became very good friends. His father and mother very kindly invited me to spend Easter with them at their home near Stutgart. I travelled to Frankfurt by plane and was met by Martin and his father. We got a trolley for my case and walked down a passage and got in a lift and went down, we walked out of the lift and emerged in to a massive car park. About six cars from the end was an orange, 4 door, Volkswagen stationwagen, which was their car. We put my suitcase in the back with my hand luggage. We drove though a maze of roads and at last we were in the motorway going to Stutgart where Mr. Stietz (Martin's father) put his foot down and we were racing along at 140 km. which is about 90 miles per hour. From Stutgart to Frankfurt is just under 200 km. which is about 125 miles. After two hours of driving Martin told me we were nearly there! We :were going down a lane when Mr. Stietz stopped and Uli, Martin's brother got in, I shook hands with him and introduced myself. At last we arrived. Opa, Oma, (Grandpa and Grandma) Mrs. Stietz, Opa Stietz and Uete came cut to greet me! I shook hands with everybody and I took my luggage into the house and; began to unpack. When I had finished Martin, Uli, Uete and I went out, they showed me around and they showed me the mill. I soon learnt all about the place.. Then we went in for tea which consisted of toast, jam, tea, yoghurt and cheese. We went on the island and into Martin's little hut. After a/bout half an 'hour we went home and to bed. In two days time it would be Martin's confirmation when Martin had a big party and lots of people came. About three days later we went to Stutgart zoo where there was a lot of animals including apes and wild ponies. They had aquariums full of fish. They had an open air pool full of crocodiles and turtles . On Sunday we went to Stutgart by train to see the special market held every three months. It was there I bought a penknife for only two marks -- about thirty five cents When we didn't go anywhere I worked in the mill tying up the bags of flour and going with Mr. Stietz and Martin selling flour in van About three days before I left we went to a Palace in Stutgart which was very interesting though the guide said everything in German There was a small private church and, a theatre. on the day before I left we had I to find some sweets and chocolate hidden on the island. After a while we found all there was to find. I had many little Easter eggs and one big one. We had our things a | day early because I was going on the next day which was Easter Sunday. Next day I and the whole family travelled to Frankfurt Airport where I said goodbve and thank you for my exciting holiday I hope tov isit again that wonderful place and by then I hope to know more German. Leslie Smith 1A2	VICTORY — DEFEAT We sang a song of sickness, And a pocket full of whys, As thousands of our young man Were sent away to die. We watched so many joyful men March along that road. Courageously, unknowingly, They struggled with their load. And when the war was over, We all began to sing. Wasn't that a bloody way, To crown our Country King. D. Davies NESSIE Are you a weed or are you a wave? Are you a monster or just a myth? Surely my friend you should behave! Show yourself in all your glory; And make an end to this long, long storey. Nigel Chapman 2B. FAMINE Burning, blistering, merciless sun, Infinite plains, bleached bones, Dry water holes, empty fields, Dehydrated people, dead cattle, Crawling flies, a living hell, Rotting bodies, a repugnant smell. Scavenging vultures, cowardly killers, Stricken communities, dying painfully, slowly, Blind eyes, roasted flesh, Bloated bodies, blistered feet, Decimated carcasses, dry skin, Bones protruding, long, thin. Kieran Smith 2A.
ANIMALS THE BEAR There he goes . . . . Shyly hunting for food In the wilds of British Columbia Beneath the tall graceful mountains Covered with ice and snow. Down in the forest The bear smiles, He has found something to eat. It is a rabbit and her leverets, The brown creature grins with hunger. Slowly, slowly he pads, Along the earth Which cracks, and breaks upon his weight. He is so heavy Even the trees are starting to shiver. The bear is starving, Suddenly he leaps cunningly Towards the rabbit family. Too late, they've gone The funny animal is angry. . . . For he growls very loudly. I am not frightened Though you may be One thing for sure Stay in the car — Away from the disturbed animal. Anne Birn 1A2.	THE DEER I wandered out onto the green, And started nibbling grass, Then turned to see a horrid scene, And hear a trumpet blast. The scene I saw was of horses grand And of dogs running fast. Quickly and nimbly covering the land, To catch me as I passed I ran towards the forest dark, To look for somewhere to hide, Behind me the hounds yapped and barked, But the hunter shall be denied. Through the watching trees I ran, On towards the stream, Then quickly through it I swam, Far ahead of the hunting team. Susan James 2A FRED THE FROG Fred the frog, the silly fellow, Mostly green and slightly yellow. Splashed and swam and wallowed about, When he croaked it was like a shout. He's cold and wet and a wobbly lump, The slightest sound will make him jump. Lives on insects, flies and things, Especially fond of meals on wings. Nicholas Bell 1C1.
KINKAJOU With a head so soft and smooth, Short pointed and dainty ears, Eyes that glow shiny and black, With a tail from the rear of Dave Crockett's cap. Racoon or Kinkajou, This funny animal so swift, Climbs trees when chased by hunting hounds. He makes his home in large birds' nests, In empty holes or hollow trees, In nooks and crannies he will search, For wild berries, grubs of any kind. When the snow is deep, When his food is stored, He curs up to sleep till the weather is warm And his struggle begins again. Angela Stapley 2A. THE PANTHER As fast as an arrow in flight, A sleek agile foody leapt through the undergrowth, Muscular legs pounding and yellow teeth bared. His eyes were alert as he pursued his prey. Cornered at last, the pursued turned in terror, The Panther pounced with claws ready, He ripped the frail animal to pieces, And started his evening meal. Michael Lamb 2A.	THE OWL Still it sits, Amber traffic light eyes, Flashing under hooded eye lids, On, off, on, off. Flashing in spiralling Catherine wheels of feathers, Saucer-like objects, filling the head, Save for the stubby, powerful beak, Flesh-shredder, unexpected in a wise face. Arrow-head ears pointing this way and that, Following the sound patterns of the night; On, off, on, off. This way and that, This way and that. The bird seemingly restful, Poised on talons of death, Launches witih a sudden lurch, Life a hunter, on feathered fingers, to its prey. Eyes, ears, beak and talons, converge like a guided missile On its victim . . . Still its sits, Amber traffic light eyes, Flashing under hooded eye lids. Jeffrey Turner 2A.
THE SNAKE A slithery, slimy thing. No legs! It just slides along, Hoping to get past the owl, Sitting high in the tree, His small beady eyes Fixed on the ground in front. What is he? He's got a pointed tongue, Which every now and then he shoots out, To catch any insects which are near. He's a snake. Is he a fiery python, Or just a plain grass snake? Small children would run, Adults would scream. But! I like to watch the thin, slippery snake go by. Katerina Smith 1A2. THE MONKEY In the evening, Swinging through the jungle, By the old cannibal camp, Is the brown, annoying menace of the tribes of Africa. It swings to and fro, Leaving behind its little, chitter-chattering voice, To echo far and wide. Its coat and cunning, Face very small, with a tiny pink mouth. This animal is the monkey. Susan Burns 1A2.	THE STALLION Down by the farm next to the old vicarage, Is the paddock. With lush green grass set against the blue sky. There in the shade of the old oak tree, Is the great stallion grazing. He lifts his grand head and tosses his beautiful long mane, Then he slowly lowers his head to graze once more. He has a magnificent coat of dapple grey, It is soft and warm to touch. His eyes look gentle nad he seems to smile whatever. Oh Yes! he is wonderful, And anyone who comes to the paddock, Will surely agree with me. Caroline Caldwell 1A2. DOG'S HEAVEN I dream of a land that's far away, Where I'd eat and sleep and play all day. I'd run and be free from tall, dark strangers, It's a place in the sun that has no dangers. There's lots of cats to chase out here, We live on juicy bones and cans of beer. We can paddle in the waters of big blue lakes, In this here land there ain't no snakes. There ain't no fighting in this here land, We can lie in the sun or play in the sand. There ain't no such things as collars and leads, And money and stuff nobody ever needs. Fiona Earsman 2C
THE FOX The copper fur of the fox, Glints as it passes by, Like a lightning streak, Leaving the hounds far behind. His long slim legs carry him Far into the wood beyond, With minutes to spare he dropped his head, And drinks from an icy pond. He hears again the familiar sound Of the barking hounds and the horn, So the fox carries on with ears pressed back, ... Soon to wish he hadn't been born. The fox becomes tired and slows and slows, And soon his bushy tail droops to the floor. At last Re collapses flat on his nose, Unable to run any more. The fox is found by excited hounds, Who come to tear it apart They claw it and bite it, And soon they tear its heart. The tousled fur of the fox is bloodstained, That copper body is stiff. His eyes are wide with anguish, And his mouth open from his last howl. The hunters are satisfied with their kill. And off to the tavern they go, Leaving t&e fox far behind them, Stiff and dead in the snow. Deborah Jenkins 2A.	A school playground at break; A seething mass of hungry termites. Francine Champman 2A. Did you ever see a school girl? Short-legged, snub-nosed, freckle-faced. Alison Harvey 2A.
AUNTIE'S PET My auntie has a lovely pet, "Though I have never seen it, She never lets me take it out, Or even watch her clean it.. She says he has a splendid face, Stands on a chair to see it. And if he gets stuck on the stairs She tickles it to free it. She feeds it pre-historic food You'd think that one would smell it, I though I'd buy some for my dog But where on earth do they sell it? I've often though, what can it be, — I've really tried to quiz it, And so I asked the family, Please everyone, what is it? My mother answered me at first Her face all bathed in tears. ''Don't be unkind to Aunty dear, She's had that thing for years". Again I pressed the question, They answered me in chorus, "Aunt imagines that she has A full grown dinosaurus". Linda Harris 5K.	CAUTIONARY TALES CRY: "WOLF!" Thomas, a young boy who lived in a small mountain village, was a terrible liar, and loved to play practical jokes. He would do hardly any work at all, instead he kept to his own motto: "To lie is to live". All the people around knew Tom only too well. They were sick and tired of his jokes. Now this small community was dependant on cattle for food and money. Their goats and sheep were once plagued by wolves and other creatures, until a great man came and rid the people of these animals. Tom would, as did all the other boys in his village, listen to such tales and even stay quiet through them. About a week later, after hearing the story of the wolves, Tom, after telling one of the worst lies ever, was sent up the hillside to tend the sheep as punishment. He had done this several times before, and he found it quite irritating, because he had no-one to joke and lie to; apart from that, he was scared. One cool night, Tom was sitting on a flat stone, half asleep, with one eye watching the sheep. He thought all was well, when he felt, strangely that something was wrong. He swung round instantly, and saw a vicious wolf ready to spring. Tom stood up and at the same moment brought down his staff with a sickening crunch on the base of the wolf's skull. It was dead. Tom immediately ran back to the village, leaving the sheep unattended. He banged on the first door he came to and woke a woodman. Tom told him that a wolf had come and that he had managed to kill it. The woodman, for some reason, believed him and went to investigate but reaching the spot, no trace could be found of the dead wolf. Later, Tom received a sound beating from his father and he was sent back up the mountain. Next morning a corpse of a small boy was found on the mountain, alongside the bodies of many sheep Jeffrey Turner 2A.
FEAR HOME AFTER DARK "Blast!" I watched as the taillights of the bus grew fainter through the fog. Twelve o'clock and there went my last chance of getting home before one. Washington at night isn't exactly the 'nicest place to toe at, what with all the muggers, but I knew I had better get home, so I started on the mile long journey. I knew the way well enough; walk across the Potomac bridge past Roosevelt island and down the bill-board studded road called Kensington. I stopped down to tie my shoelace, and then I started. Something inside told me to run, but the other half said not to run because I was running to my doom. Torn between this I decided to jog just to be on the safe side. Then a rustle of leaves; I threw myself forward onto the side of the road, then the thing came forward, a black outline on the starless sky. I then jumped up and swore, hoping it might be scared. No go. It came on. I felt my heart miss a couple of beats, then I darted off. The thing was game, it came after me first at a trot then a run. I looked down the road for help. Seeing headlights I yelled. And then rolled over the road into the woods on the other side. The headlights shone bright and I glanced back to see what the thing was. A dog! A stupid mutt had scared me half to death! I caught my breath and then went on hoping against hope to see some sign of a lift. After about three quarters of a mile I rounded a corner where something loomed in front of me. this was no dog nor a post, it was a human. I picked up a piece of stone and1 hurled it, the 'missile hit him (it looked like a man) and I saw the head fall off, then as the 'moonlight fall on the head I noticed it was wooden. A scarecrow, someone had put it there for fun. I then heard noises and I rushed off, running the last quarter of a mile to my house, and when I finally got there, seeing the lights off I began screaming, then my mother came out and I passed into peaceful unconsciousness. Frontis Wiggins 2A.	DONT EAT TOO MUCH! Once upon a time there lived a little boy called Fred. Fred lived in a very big house in the country. There many servants and Fred was very spoilt. He became fat that his mother became worried. He ate and ate he could hardly swallow, and then asked for more. Fred was told by his mother: "If you don't take care, some inner part of you will burst." But Fred didn't care. To this replied, "What does it mailer, if I do get fatter. Put more pudding on my "plate, and lei it do its worst." Fred carried on getting fatter, until one day there was a report like thunder. Doors and windows flew open and the cat had fits. Fred had at length exploded and was blown to bits. His old nurse was disgusted, as she had just swept the floor. The painful task of peeling Fred off the wall! and ceiling gave his family a feeling of distress. Everyone had known he would die in some awful way, but he didn't listen? Deborah Jenkins 2A.   DID YOU EVER SEE? Did you ever see a class Ink-flicking, water-bombing, child-screaming. Francine Chapman 2A. Did you ever see a schoolboy Dirty-kneed, baggy-trousered, tousle-haired. Kieran Smyth 2A.
IN A DARK ALLEY Down a long, dark alley, grim and dark, The shadows of dustbins black and stank. Sharp jagged glass lining the top of the wall, A muddy black puddle, a burst football. I look to the right, to the left, to the end A faint glimmer of light shows round the bend. A step forward, stop, listen Bands of sweat on my forehead glisten. Suddenly a wail,, a cat runs past A shout shatters the silence like a hammer on glass. I run wildly, looking here and there No place to hide, I'm filled with despair. I see ahead a gleam of light, Footsteps behind me make me stiff with fright, Around the next corner is a homely light. Kieran Smyth 2A. SCHOOL Scream, thump, scribe, yell, Pencil, teacher, flick, Book, hit, break, bell, Rush, clamber, kick. Francine Chapman 2A. THE LAST DAY IN HELL On October 25th a Uruguayan Airforce plane crashed high up in the snow-covered Andes. There were twenty-six survivors. This included me. Parrodos had an idea that if we wanted to be rescued, we had to climb some mountains. Since no one in the group had ever done any serious mountain climbing, certainly not on the icy peaks of the Cordilera, we only had a vague notion of what kind of equipment would be needed. We managed to create snow shoes from seat cushions or slates of aluminium bindings from seat belts which could be used as climbing ropes, and out of broken rods from the pilot's cabin we formed hooks This was a great effort with everyone doing his share, we had slept through the night we got up at dawn and in less than ten minutes all the gear had been packed. Then we were creeping into the dark, bone-freezing cold. The worst thing was the ice-cold wind that numbed our faces whilst climbing. We walked in a single line through high cliffs! of snow and talking only when necessary. After walking a long way we decided to find shelter. We were rescued by a cattleman who lived in the beautiful valley called Los Mailenas we were taken to hospital in an ambulance. Zoe Baker 4J	DISASTERS A NIGHT IN A FOG I was returning from a fishing trip, there was quite a high swell and the wind was stronger than usual, but the thing that was worrying me was the thick blanket of fog over the sea. My only means of navigation was a pocket compass and the boat I had to navigate was a small fishing boat with a 20 hp outboard engine. The night was cold as well as foggy and the two thick sweaters I was wearing didn't stop my chattering. The time was one o'clock and I had hoped to be in bed by four o'clock. However the fog spoilt that chance. I was sailing due North and to make sure of that point I decided to check my compass. I reached for where my compass usually was but it wasn't there. I looked around but could see nothing, so I took my torch from my sou'wester and shone it round the bottom of the boat. As it passed over one section something glinted and to my relief there was the compass. However that relief was soon turned into despair when I saw that it was lying in slush with the waterproof covering off. So with my means of navigation gone, I was in a hopeless position and it seemed that I would have to spend the night at sea. I cut the engine and kept the boat steady with the oars and all was then quiet except for the lapping of waves against the boat, and the whistling wind. For a while I waited, then all of a sudden "VROO!" and the boat was violently rocked in the wake of a ship that couldn't have been 50 yards away. At about 5.30 the fog lifted and I watched the sun rise in the East, then it 'clicked'! If that was East then I should be able to find North. This is what I did and within minutes I was heading in a Northerly direction. I was soon within sight of land and I could make our familiar land marks. Soon I was coast-crawling and then I sighted my home port. My ordeal was over. David Bench 1A1.
THE PLAGUE OF RATS It was a still, silent Saturday afternoon. The people of Amalfi, a little village in Italy, were having their siesta. It was about 3 o'clock when a rumbling was heard from the distant hills. The villagers looked out of their windows, annoyed, because the noise had woken them. The rumbling had become a louder pitter-patter and the villagers shook with fear for they knew what was coming. Rats! By 9 o'clock that night the rats were running around in the street, desperately looking for food. Doors were locked windows bolted. This was just the beginning. A week passed. About twenty two people had died because of the diseases, germs and dirt brought by the rats. The plague hit the village badly. The rats even began to get inside the people's houses. Babies were helpless and the old and weak. There seemed no cure for the diseases and more people began to die. After another week the rats left the village slowly. By the time they had all gone, the village was in a terrible state. The few people left, mourned for their dead, then began to clean up the disorder. It took a long time before the people began to live settled lives again. Joanne Collins 3G.	HURRICANE Joe was bored as he walked down the street, he wished something would happen, anything just a bit of excitement, but nothing ever happened in Jamaica. He walked home, kicking a rusty tin can into the gutter as he went. When he got in he went to his bedroom and switched on his radio. First there was the top twenty introduced by the latest disc jockey Snazzy Dazzy. This was followed by the news from London. After this was a programme of uninterrupted music. Joe was not expecting the news flash that came on half way through, "Violent winds smashed into South America today, winds reaching Hurricane force, it is expect- ed to hit Jamaica in the early hours of the morning." At this moment his sister burst into the room, "Have you heard the news?" she gasped. Her brother just sat there and nodded. "Dad will be home soon", he said "then we will board up the windows." His dad came in and asked Joe to help him. The windows were finally boarded up. They sat waiting for the Hurricane. Then it came. Trees crashed down, the people inside whirled away like dolls, then it was all over and Joe was bored again. Duncan Maude 1A1.
SCHOOL HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR SURNAMES? THE STOREY Once upon a time there was a SHEPPARD sitting on a LONG tree trunk on a hillside. He was looking after a LAMB. He was bored and began to WHITTLE away at a STAG antler. The sun became really hot, making him WITHER. This gave him a stomach-ache, so he took a HENNIE. He took out a pack of WADDINGTON'S playing cards and just as he did this a LYON ran out of the forest in the NORTH. "HOLT", shouted the SHEPPARD, as the LYON ran at the LAMB. He fought with the LYON, chasing it off. He only received a RIPPON in his jacket, but became very MOODY. Farmer GILES drove up in his MORRIS, wearing a TAYLOR made suit. He had his son called Patter with him, who was very brainy because he 'knew the MORSE code, but suffered from RICKETTS disease. They both had just come back from their holiday in FYFFE. "This is my PATTERSON," said Farmer Giles to the SHEPPARD. They were just going to the CHURCH of Christ the KING and Farmer GILES looked at his watch and said they must make HASTE. The CHURCHWARD was very full when they arrived, because many people had come from the HIGHLAND areas. On the way home, Patter saw something in the road and said, "WATTS that?" His father replied, "That's a HEDGEHOG". Patter had learned his MORSE code in the Army and had also learned to use a' THOMPSON submachine gun. He smoked a cigarette, and then as usual STUBBS it out on the floor. At home, Farmer Giles began to do a cross-word. "Two French words meaning something very similar to the rod." Patter, who as I have said before, was very bright, said: "LE QUESNE". Mark Sheppard 6G.
MATHS LESSON ON APRIL FOOLS' DAY "Quick he's coming," shrieked one of the girls. Carefully the blackboard duster was positioned on top of the door. We waited with bated breaths . . . . Footsteps on the tiled floor . . . . Suddenly . . . . a hand reach up, grasped the duster and in stepped our Maths teacher grinning like a Cheshire cat! A nudge. Another nudge. "Right. Now". She peered out of the window and her hand shot up. "Sir, the Admiral's coming!" "What? Now? OK. Right do something while I tidy up my desk." Girls giggled. Boys looked surprised. He checked the desks and sat down. A minute later came a chorus of: "April fool Sir!" Fiona Corbett 3D.	RECIPE FOR BREAKING AND ENTERING Ingredients 1 house, (preferably empty) 1 burglar, 1 hammer, (for breaking window) 1 bag, (to put things in) 1 bicycle, (for quick getaway) Method 1) Approach house discreetly from behind, making sure occupants are elwhere. 2) Smash window using hammer specially for this purpose. 3) Open window, and enter house through window. 4) Open bag and place goodies inside, e.g. T.V., fridge, washing machine. 6) Straddle bicycle, and get the hell out of there! L. Graham 6A.
A SCHOOL FOR OGRES Mabel was an ogre (or rather ogress) of ten years of age. She was about the size of four men standing on each other's shoulders, and she had long fair hair which reached down to her waist. She was in her first term at Uphill School for Ogres (Girls Only). After about a week Mabel had settled down very well and she felt as though she had been at the school for years. Then disaster struck! You see Ogre Land is situated on a very, very large cloud, but you do have to worry about falling over the edge of the cloud. Uphill School was about half a mile away from the edge of the cloud and sometimes Miss Foxtrot, Mabel's Form Tutor would take them to the edge, so that they could reach down and pull up any humans they could catch. These were then put into wicker baskets and used in Cookery lessons. The afternoon they were there, all the girls took large fishing nets with them and they lay flat on their stomachs, reaching over the edge of the cloud. Just at that moment Mabel saw an aeroplane coming towards them. "It's mine!" she shrieked. "No, Mabel, not that one. It's too far away, you'll fall!" cried Miss Foxtrot. But it was too late, suddenly Mabel let out a piercing yell and toppled over the edge of the cloud. Fishing nets were held out stop her but all was in vain. Miss Foxtrot had been aware that something like this would happen and she, very sensibly, brought a rope. Suddenly Mabel saw a rope swinging before her eyes. Immediately she dropped her fishing net and grabbed hold of the rope. Soon she was being hauled to safety. When Mabel was sitting safely on the grass Miss Foxtrot said to her; "Well, Mabel, after this accident I hope you will have learnt not to lean right over the cloud. As a new ogre to the school we will say no more about it, but woe betide you if you do anything like this again!" This is just one of the adventures Mabel had at Uphill School for Ogres (Girls Only). Susan Latham 1A2.	EMBARRASSMENT One day, at the bus stop, I was mucking around with a hockeystick. I hit a stone and it went flying over to the other side of the road where a bus-stop queue was waiting. I quickly passed the stick to Geraldine and went bright red. She quickly passed it to someone else and went red. Another time I was embarrassed was last when we went for a walk. We were playing our casette and a song had just finished. The next record came on, just as some boys were passing. The record was "Rupert the Bear". We died of laughter and went bright red. One more time when I was embarrassed was when I was walking down the main street with my friend, she stopped to look in a shop window. I carried on walking and talking to her. Everyone was looking at me and wondering who I was taking to. I finally turned around and found no friend, and once more I went bright red and dived into the nearest shop. Debbie Canham 4K. STAFF HITS 1 Leader of the Pack. -Cdr. Stubbs 2 Art for Art's Sake. - Mr. Singleton 3 Falling Apart at the Seams. - Miss Nelson 4 Tulips From Old Amsterdam. - Mr. Holland 5 Smoke Gets in Your Eyes. - Miss Ash 6 Walk Tall.  - Mr. Bonner 7 Leaving of Liverpool. - Miss Shone 8 Concrete and Clay. -  Miss Rae 9 I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing. - Miss Scott 10 What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor? - Mr. Hughes 11 Rent a Santa. - Mr. Christmas 12 Wooden Heart. - Mr. Kitson 13 Je t'aime. - Mr. Latham
	FIFTH FORM CONFUSION Fifth year confused. Wanders absent mindedly, Makes decisions. Can't abide by them. Which subject to take, What is important, Can't decide, Not much time left. When to leave school, Should we stay on, What is best. How can we know? Tired of school, But have no future, Must continue, Even unwillingly. Gary Booth 5K. AUTUMN Orange, Red, Yellow? Yes that's the colour, At this time of year. Brown leaves falling, Forever falling, Crisp and dry? Yes, that's how they feel. Bare, Bare trees? Yes, that's how they look, Brown, twisting branches, Cold and bleak. But soon the snow will fall, And they will look bare no more. Elizabeth Orr. 2C.
PANCAKES Batter covered cakes, Kitchen full of batter lakes. Dog on the floor licking, Batter from the fan dripping. Always willing to have another go, Pancakes falling like snow. Batter covered sisters, Sores aches and blisters. Batter on the floor, And a batter covered door.. Always willing to have another go, Pancakes falling like snow. Christopher Starling 1A2.	THE MOON The moon shines with a pale, green light, Lighting the trees below, Her magic light shines on trees and dells. Sinking wearily, heavy a sigh, She rests to await another night. Suzanne Munnelly 4L. Did you ever see a teacher? Cane-cracking, voice-growling, books-marking. Alison Harvey 2A. THE SEA swelling, beating, rising, roaring, Cold, salty, wet, Booming, hissing, spraying, scaring, Fish, haul, net. Julie Fisher 2A.

                                                 Cpt. M. F. Law the new Officer in Charge Schools, Malta and Naples. 

   NEWS OF FORMER STAFF

Mr Gallagher has left Cairo and now has a post in England.
   Mr. and Mrs. Gerrard are both teaching at St. Margaret's School, York — but spend most holidays in Malta.
Mr. McAllister is Head of English at St. Andrew's School — Leatherhead.
Mr. Ruoff has returned from the post of Senior Master at the High School at Stratford on Avon but is  doing part time work.
Mr. Harris is Deputy Head of St. George's School Hong Kong where Mr. Alexander is Head of English and Miss Angela Gallagher is an assistant in the English Department.
Commander Coupe has retired from the Navy and is now working in Cambridge.
Mrs. Catherine Farmer is still teaching in the Birmingham Area but was in Malta with her husband for a summer holiday.
Lieutenant Commander and Mrs. Cottam are now living in their house at Bishop's Waltham — he is with MOD and she doing some broadcasting.
Lieutenant Commander Derek Butler has retired from the Navy and is teaching in Singapore.  Mr. P. Wright has now a post with the EEC in Brussels; they now have a baby daughter.
I am sure people will be pleased to hear news of former Headmasters:  Captain Miles is living at East Hoathley.  Admiral Bellamy is Deputy Director of the Polytechnic
of the S. Bank. Admiral Morgan has just retired as D.N.E.S. and has been appointed as Administrative Secretary of the Science Research Control.
Captain Mannering is now teaching part time at Cheltenham Ladies' College.
Captain Malkin has retired from the Navy and is Secretary of the Church Schools Company.
We were delighted to see Lt. Cdr. S. A. PARKIN R.N., ex Deputy Head who came round to see us while holidaying in Malta.
It is with deep regret that we have to announce the deaths of Mr. Edgar BATTYE in October 1975, Mr. Henry HITCHCOTT in September 1976, Mrs. ALTON (Miss DIANA DIBLEY) in April 1976 and we offer our sympathy to Mrs. HITCHCOTT and Dr. ALTON.

J. Yule M.B.E.
former Senior Mistress

                                                                    OLD PUPIL'S PAGE

It is two years since the Tal Handaq Magazine has published any news of its former pupils - - Last year's news was too late to be published. There are, however, many who keep in touch and I hope that those who read these notes will. encourage others to send in their news, especially as many do not realise that the school is still a very flourishing concern.
We offer our congratulations to Penny Tatton who was married to David Currie in July 1974 — they met at Southampton University where as was reading Biology and Penny, History — Since then, she has gained a second class Honours Degree and they are now fish farming in the Outer Hebrides.
Roger Tatton is a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy — he is married with a small girl. Peter Ross was married to Christine Cairns in November
1974 — after gaining a B.Sc. in Geology at Manchester University he did a year's work for a Ph. D. at Imperial College but decided not to complete it and is now an Instructor Officer in the Royal Navy. His brother, Robert, gained a degree at East Anglia University and intended to work in Industry.
In March 1975, Bernard Hatchard spent his honeymoon here — he has a degree in Bio-Chemistry and is also working in Industry — contempory of his, John Mccallum. has a Science degree and works for British Leyland near Preston— he is married with a small daughter.                 Geoffrey Edgell has similar qualifications and is with 'Rolls Royce at Derby, he is also married with two children.
It is very gratifying to have news of pupils who left Tal Handaq a good while ago, one of these was Tony Overton who after a spell in the RAF — now works for Proctor and Gamble — he gave news of Michael Slater who is now in Australia. Another visitor from far off days was Richard
Sanders, now a Flying Officer in the RAF; he married Melanie Lusty who was at Tal Handaq after he left — she trained as a Radiographer. They have a small son.
Out of the blue, I had a letter from Kathleen Pilsbury — now Mrs. Thomas, she had seen a copy of the 1973 Magazine
and though having left in 1959, she was thrilled to hear news of the school. She obtained a degree in Architecture at Manchester University and worked for several years as an architect on Commercial Development — she has now "retired" as she had a son in July 1975. She gave news of
Charlotte Finney who qualified as a dentist at Edinburgh University and until recently had a commission as a Surgeon Lieutenant Commander in the Navy. She is now married to Alan Pye, an Instructor Officer R.N. William Duncan "is still Music Master at Saltus Grammar School, Bermuda. He gave news of Malcolm Chesney who is Deputy Head of a Junior School in Birmingham.
Maureen Sillis (Mrs. BLEAKLEY) now live's in Cornwall and has a little girl.
Roger Tregunno gained a degree at Sheffield University and is now a Government Factory. Inspector in the Birmingham area.
Rosemary Dearden Mrs. GRENYER) has been teaching Geography at Habadasher Aske's School — she and her husband have recently published some text books on Geography. (Oxford Geography Projects).
Michael Vingo is teaching Zoology at Croydon and recently paid a visit to Malta.
News of more recent pupils include: Claire Barraclough who is studying Music and her sister Nicola, Domestic Science.
Linda Cottam has been accepted for a course at Winchester Art College.
Dorian Church is in her last year at Sussex University. Paul Grimson who has a commission in the RAF has married a former head girl, Maureen Jones.
Woodley Jones is an officer in the Army Education Corps. Richard Hoctor is teaching PE in Germany. Lynn Eder is working in London as an executive with Pepsi-Cola.
David Simpson who left in 1975 is working in a factory in Truro. Steven Jones is doing an Art Course.
Pat Fitton, last year's Head Girl, has joined the Wrens as a Cadet Entry.
Timothy Agius Ferrante, ex Head Boy, is now married to a former pupil Charmaine Burton. They are now living in Mdina, Malta.
We have news of a couple of our American pupils — Bobbie Bradley is married, he worked with an Oil Company for some time but after his father's death he has returned to Texas; to manage the family property.
Larry Bridwell completed a welding course in America and hopes to find a job with an Oil Company.
I hope these few notes will encourage other old pupils to send in their news and that they will pass on the fact that Tal Handaq is still growing strong!
J. Yule M.B.E.

                  EXAMINATION RESULTS 1975-76