Former Plaistow Grammar School pupil Fred Jarvis visits NewVIc school

New VIc students enjoy visit from Plaistow old boy

Luke Jacobs Monday, July 16, 2012
10:00 AM

New VIc college students were paid a very special visit by a notable former pupil.

Ex-Plaistow Grammar School boy Fred Jarvis dropped by the very building he studied in 70 years ago to tell the current generation of his experiences.

He attended the school between 1935 and 1940 and was evacuated twice during the Second World War to both Weymouth and Newquay.

Mr Jarvis, a former general secretary of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), left school at 16 to go to work because his family were no longer able to support him.

After serving in the war and being given an ex-servicemen grant, he was able to complete a University of Oxford degree.

New VIc students responded by saying they were positive about the opportunities afforded to them now.

Eddie Playfair, NewVIc principal, said: “It was a real privilege to welcome Fred Jarvis to NewVIc.

“Fred was the general secretary of the NUT when I was a young teacher and he has always championed comprehensive and inclusive education for all.

“He is concerned that there are still too many obstacles to success facing today’s ambitious young people from places like Newham.”

Share this article

Thugs attack chicken shop run by Muslim family in Upton Park

A Muslim family are in shock after their fried chicken shop was viciously attacked last night by vengeful thugs following the murder of a soldier in Woolwich.

Read full story »