- 1 day ago
First broadcast 14th March 1974.
Fisher is good at his job but in new circumstances that isn't enough: he has to face the risks of competition for something bigger.
Frank Windsor - Tom Fisher
Michael Byrne - Russell
Gerald Sim - Carter
Colin Douglas - Philips
Patricia Lawrence - Margaret Fisher
Mary MacLeod - June Wade
Anthony Roye - Harvey
Hugh Thomas - Dickinson
Alan Cullen - Chairman
Margot Boyd - Miss Williams
Arnold Diamond - Andrews
Auriol Smith - Mrs. Russell
Anthony Douse - Geoff Edwards
Terence Burtenshaw - David
Kevin Hourigan - Peter
Perry Benson - Nicky
Paul Smithers - Gerry
Pearl Page - Mrs. Evans
Fisher is good at his job but in new circumstances that isn't enough: he has to face the risks of competition for something bigger.
Frank Windsor - Tom Fisher
Michael Byrne - Russell
Gerald Sim - Carter
Colin Douglas - Philips
Patricia Lawrence - Margaret Fisher
Mary MacLeod - June Wade
Anthony Roye - Harvey
Hugh Thomas - Dickinson
Alan Cullen - Chairman
Margot Boyd - Miss Williams
Arnold Diamond - Andrews
Auriol Smith - Mrs. Russell
Anthony Douse - Geoff Edwards
Terence Burtenshaw - David
Kevin Hourigan - Peter
Perry Benson - Nicky
Paul Smithers - Gerry
Pearl Page - Mrs. Evans
Category
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TVTranscript
00:08I
00:31Morning sir. Morning sir. Morning sir. David. What's that dog doing here? He didn't follow me to school again sir.
00:46And you can take us straight back again. It's only twenty past eight. Yes sir. Go on with you. You
00:51know you can get the Cranborn Teddison back in a quarter of an hour. Less if you run. Yes sir
00:55but there's nobody in the course logs. Then you'll have to ask your auntie Mae for the key won't you.
01:00Yes sir. And you can tell that dog if she turns up again I'll shoot her. That dear? Especially after
01:05that music lesson. Yeah but she doesn't always do what she's told. Like others I could mention. Morning sir. Morning.
01:20Morning sir. Morning. Wilson. Andrew. You couldn't have held the door for Mr Edwards couldn't you? Yes sir.
01:33It's finished afternoon's quiet practice. Yes. Those who've come to send at home.
01:39Now.
01:59Good book day? Oh you're so many good guys. Another sci-fi no doubt. It beats me where you rake
02:08them all up from.
02:09Oh one of the two of us gets a little scheme going. They'd buy them and lend them out.
02:15Economical anyway. Sir.
02:20This is nice. You have a glass to it? Yes sir.
02:27So unfinished out about it sir. More to come? Oh yes sir. There's going to be loads on. It's going
02:32to be all round. Even cover up some of the windows would be lucky.
02:38Which bit did you do? The map. Very good. How long did it take? About four hours. I don't know.
02:47I must remember to keep popping in and see how it's going.
02:49Well I think we'd better wait till the end sir. You get more of an excitement about it and keep
02:54popping in and you know what's going on.
02:57Better let me know when he's ready for public viewing eh? Yes sir. We send you an invitation to it.
03:01Good morning. Good morning Ted. Good morning Squire.
03:16The smell of dinner does hang about doesn't it? Yes.
03:18Yeah. What was it yesterday? Savory mince.
03:23Tenacious stuff mince. Yeah.
03:28That David Passmore's a try you know. Got his dog to school again today.
03:33That kid's a pain in the neck. Give him his due. He's a tryer. Say what you like. That was
03:40the liveliest music lesson that lot have had for months.
03:43He nearly broke Jeff Edwards heart. Not Jeff Edwards could stand a bit of tribulation.
03:48You haven't heard then. Heard what? Then you obviously haven't Evans.
03:52Evans? What's he been up to this time? Thrombosis. Thrombosis?
03:59Oh yes immediate. Never knew what hit him. Well well well.
04:05Bit of a facer eh? Bit of a facer indeed.
04:09What about his wife? She must be pretty shattered. Well his daughter came down from the middle straight away.
04:14Do you remember her? Yes I do.
04:17Married wonder boy Russell.
04:20Of course that means... Yeah well.
04:24Well.
04:25A bit of a facer.
04:27Yes so.
04:28Funny thing is one never really expects it.
04:30All those years.
04:33Evans entrenched in the grammar school. Such a regular thorn in the flesh.
04:37You hardly notice is there after a while.
04:39Maybe.
04:40What about it though?
04:43It's got to be faced.
04:46Whatever we feel about it it's coming.
04:48And there's nothing we can do about it.
04:51After all they decided some time ago to join the two schools together into a comprehensive when...
05:01I shan't like it.
05:03None of us will like it. It'll be messy.
05:05Shall you put in for it squire?
05:07Wouldn't need a bit of thought.
05:10Bit early in the day eh?
05:11Perhaps so. Still I reckon you don't have much choice really.
05:14I mean what are they gonna do with you otherwise?
05:19Shall you go for it?
05:21Oh here's another of them.
05:22Well people are bound to be interested. I mean aren't they?
05:25There's a lot of feeling.
05:27I'm not so sure it's all that desirable a job you know.
05:30It's a huge task.
05:31After all two schools since most people around here can remember.
05:35It's what everyone's used to.
05:36I suppose no one can expect things to stay the same forever can they?
05:40Some of us do you know.
05:41In our heart of hearts.
05:43Time to leave a lot of loose ends.
05:45Oh.
05:46I've been preaching equality of opportunity to all children.
05:49And believing in it.
05:51I've got to face the practical implications of it now haven't I?
05:54But surely you'll go in for it.
05:55I reckon a good session on these returns for the ministry should
05:59inhibit all thought for quite some time.
06:01Shall we?
06:16Oh yes thank you. You've done very well. Thank you so much.
06:20Mrs. Evans.
06:23So sorry.
06:24It'd be a sad loss.
06:26Thank you very much.
06:27Do you remember my daughter?
06:30Sometime since we met.
06:32How do you do?
06:34Do you know my husband?
06:36I've heard of him of course.
06:38Mr. Russell.
06:39This is Mr. Fisher.
06:41He was father's...
06:42Opposite number. Head of the secondary model.
06:44Ah.
06:45Times are changing eh?
06:49One way of looking at it.
06:52Bye.
06:53Bye.
06:54Bye.
06:56Mrs. Evans.
06:56I must go.
06:58I thank you for having me.
06:59It's all.
06:59Bye.
07:00Oh.
07:06It's not a bad turnout really considering.
07:13Oh.
07:16Have you met Russell before?
07:19No not personally no.
07:20There's a lot of drive.
07:22No doubt.
07:23Quite a personality.
07:25Yes.
07:26Can I give you a lift back?
07:28Oh.
07:29Isn't it rather out of your way?
07:30No not at all.
07:32I'd be glad of a chance for a word with you as a matter of fact.
07:35Don't often get the chance.
07:36Don't often seek it.
07:37I'll take that as a compliment.
07:39I confine my fishing to troubled waters you know.
07:42And you want a word with me now?
07:45Well.
07:45It would be a help.
07:48Well I suppose everyone's asked you by now.
07:51So you might as well ask too.
07:53Well I'm interested obviously.
07:55Am I sure to be concerned?
07:57Concern is a wonderful thing.
07:59Oh I don't think so.
08:00It's just something that arises naturally out of involvement.
08:04And I shall be involved.
08:05I am involved.
08:06Like it or not?
08:07Well.
08:09I haven't made up my mind yet.
08:12What are the factors in the consideration?
08:16It's identifying them that's the problem.
08:19How much of it is pride?
08:21How much ambition?
08:23How much simply knowing the place of the people?
08:25Half of the people?
08:26No two thirds of the people if you're going to be proportionate.
08:28There's two thirds of the people.
08:30And how much...
08:32What?
08:34Well I'm a fool to say it but I will.
08:37How much better fresh eyes looking at the situation might be.
08:40It's one of the factors.
08:42Yes it's one of the factors and I don't think you're a fool to say it.
08:46You must know that it's one of the factors that's bound to be much under consideration.
08:50Elsewhere.
08:51I mean obviously you're not the only one who's considering it.
08:54Fine.
08:55It's interesting to forget that.
08:58But you had a reason.
09:00For?
09:01For asking.
09:03Personal interest.
09:06Well alright then.
09:08Partly because my efficiency in my job depends very largely on knowing what's up.
09:13I'd be quite honest.
09:14Partly.
09:15Purely.
09:15Personal interest.
09:16Honestly.
09:18Alright.
09:20Doesn't really matter all that much does it?
09:22Couple of months?
09:25Always assuming it works out.
09:30Look.
09:31Tom.
09:33Do you mind if I call you Tom?
09:34What's my name?
09:37Russell will be applying you know.
09:41Russell.
09:42Is he a believer in the hereditary principle?
09:46No that was a cheap thing to say.
09:49Of course he has every right to apply.
09:52Especially with his background and experience.
09:55He's done very well.
09:57Yes very well.
09:59In his present job he's turned a secondary modern into a comprehensive.
10:03Raised the tone no end I hear.
10:06Not a bully for you.
10:20Well.
10:21Thanks for the lift.
10:23And the information.
10:25Look the point is.
10:27It'll be a strong field.
10:29It's bound to be.
10:30Probably Russell almost for sure.
10:32But he's only one.
10:33It's bound to attract a good field.
10:35Too good for me you mean?
10:37Well.
10:38No.
10:38Not at all.
10:39If you apply you'll be the local candidate.
10:42And a strong one that's obvious.
10:44Sure you're not being indiscreet.
10:46I mean.
10:46Anyone who gets an interview will be in there with a chance.
10:49Thanks.
10:50All the same.
10:51Excuse me.
10:55Peter.
10:55Where are you off to?
10:58Well.
10:59Which shop?
10:59What for?
11:00Down Baxter sir.
11:01To get some Violet Crate paper.
11:02Who sent you?
11:03Mr. Foster sir.
11:05All right.
11:06Well.
11:06Hurry up about it.
11:08Yes sir.
11:08Careful crossing that road.
11:14Thanks for the lift.
11:15Look.
11:16I think you should take into consideration.
11:18What?
11:20Now get back in the car for a moment will you?
11:22It's not something I feel like shouting all over the district.
11:26All right.
11:32Well?
11:33Look.
11:34You've used that word an awful lot you know.
11:36I'm looking.
11:37Yes I'm sorry.
11:38A sign of tension perhaps.
11:41Look.
11:44You want to warn me off?
11:47I want to spell out the implications.
11:50Well?
11:52If you go for this and someone else gets it.
11:56Well.
11:57Everyone knows.
11:59You know you fought and you lost.
12:01It would be all out in the open where everyone could see.
12:03You mean I don't stand a chance?
12:06I don't mean that at all and I'm not saying it.
12:08All I'm saying is that you've got to consider how it will look if you don't get it.
12:15All right.
12:16Let's consider it.
12:18I go for it and don't get it.
12:20Then what does the authority do?
12:22Retire me?
12:23Put me down?
12:24Well there'll be various organizational ploys to be borne in mind.
12:29You mean you can manage a wangle if necessary?
12:33Put it that way if you like.
12:34But the school will need some reorganizing.
12:36I mean to be very large indeed for one single school.
12:39I thought that was one of the main points.
12:42Oh not when you have two buildings.
12:44One school but two buildings.
12:47Say they moved all the younger ones in here.
12:51A sort of middle school.
12:53More or less autonomous.
12:55I see.
12:57The consolation prize.
12:58It would only be a consolation prize if you went for the jackpot and lost.
13:03If you decided not to well then.
13:05Still the consolation prize.
13:07All right put it that way if you like.
13:09But salary safeguarded.
13:11Yes the authority would feel bound to do that.
13:14And from your point of view well.
13:16Same building.
13:18Probably a lot of the same staff.
13:21Younger children true.
13:22But wider range.
13:25All together I don't think you'd come off so badly looked at in that way.
13:29Yes.
13:31But if I get the consolation prize whether I go for the other or not.
13:34Why shouldn't I take the chance?
13:36Because everyone would know.
13:37Don't you see?
13:38I mean if you didn't get it then everyone would know you'd gone for it and not got it.
13:43Now you must see that.
13:46Yes.
13:48Thanks.
13:49I'll think it over.
13:50Tom.
13:51Yes all right.
13:53Well you do that.
13:54Think it over.
13:55It's your decision after all.
13:58And Margaret's.
14:00True.
14:02Well I'll be seeing you no doubt.
14:04No doubt.
14:24It seems there'll be a pretty strong field for one thing.
14:28Headed by Russell.
14:31Oh.
14:33Yes I thought he'd be occupied doing the kiss of life act in his present place but
14:38things change don't they Margaret?
14:41As in the nature of things to change.
14:43Yes but it's a new way of going about things.
14:47Take up a job for a couple of years buy some experience.
14:50Look for an opening move on sell the experience.
14:53In the old days you took up a job and if you could hold it down you just stayed and
14:57enjoyed it.
14:59Maybe a bit later on you set your sights a bit higher but a step at a time and not
15:04too quickly either.
15:05You've done very well.
15:07I've been lucky.
15:09Up till now.
15:10Nice staff.
15:11Good kids.
15:13And no degree either.
15:14Oh come on.
15:16Well it matters now Margaret.
15:18The educational world's changing that fast.
15:21I mean look at this a grammar school and a secondary modern.
15:24The children call each other the yobs and the snobs.
15:27I reckon if you talk to the staff most of them would come up with the same opinion.
15:31And it's all got to change into one great big progressive comprehensive.
15:35But you approve.
15:37Oh I approve?
15:38My god I approve.
15:40I've been pro-comprehensive all my life.
15:42Or at least since the idea's been about.
15:45But...
15:45But why does it have to happen to you?
15:47Not exactly.
15:49But it'll be messy.
15:50For a while bound to be.
15:51Oh you're the man on the spot when that come for something?
15:55Not if I come up against someone fresh from a sewing up operation.
15:58Oh I don't know if anyone's got the experience you have.
16:01Two thirds of the expedience love.
16:04And the missing thirds the vital bit.
16:07What did Carter have to say about it?
16:10He was very fair really.
16:11It's not easy for him you know.
16:13What did he say?
16:15He said...
16:16They're bound to split it up some way.
16:20After all I'll be getting on for 2,000 kids altogether.
16:242,000.
16:26He made you an offer?
16:29In effect.
16:31Stay where I am.
16:32Look after the younger ones.
16:34Younger children.
16:35Wider range.
16:37Same building.
16:37Same salary.
16:39Pretty well the same staff.
16:40And if you go for the other.
16:42Well you know what I mean.
16:43If you go for it and you don't get it.
16:45Same offer applies.
16:47Well then.
16:48Well.
16:50One way I avoid a public battle.
16:52Yes I see.
16:54Or a public defeat.
16:58Thoughtful of him.
17:00Thoughtful.
17:02Not entirely is it love.
17:04I mean avoiding a public battle could be in his interest too.
17:08Yes.
17:09After all.
17:11There's been enough mud stirred up about this whole business as it is.
17:14Lobbying.
17:14Petitions.
17:16Anyway.
17:17That's the situation.
17:20Have you made up your mind then?
17:24Not likely to get the same chance again.
17:27No but you have thought though have you Tom.
17:29I mean about the local reaction.
17:30How you'll feel.
17:32I wouldn't want to go on not knowing.
17:34Well.
17:35It's up to you.
17:38Whatever you do it's all right by me.
17:39You know that.
17:40Yes love I know that.
17:42But I wouldn't want to see you hurt.
17:45I know that too.
17:47What's for supper?
17:48Hmm.
17:50All right.
17:52Well we've got the right sort of day for it anyway.
17:55Yes.
17:57Have you come far?
17:58Quite a way.
18:00Quite a way.
18:01Did you drive?
18:03No I.
18:04I came by train.
18:05I didn't fancy being tired out so I came yesterday.
18:08Took my time.
18:09Where did you stay?
18:11The feathers.
18:12Good.
18:12Reasonable.
18:14Pricely though.
18:14Still I suppose one may as well on expenses.
18:17Will they?
18:18Well I didn't think.
18:19I didn't notice if they said anything.
18:20Oh yes they're very reasonable.
18:22After all it's a very human reaction wanting to be as fresh as possible for the ordeal.
18:27Yes.
18:28Are we.
18:29Are we the only two?
18:31Well there are usually four at this stage.
18:33It's the standard.
18:35Hello.
18:35Hello.
18:37Well is this all?
18:38Well there is one other that I know of but he won't be along till later I understand.
18:42Oh the local boy.
18:44Yes something like that.
18:45Hmm.
18:46Well that's either very good or very bad.
18:48When they leave the local boy till last I mean.
18:53So I was right.
18:55In what way?
18:56Well I picked you two out as likely runners at this morning session.
18:59You two and that tall fellow.
19:02The tall.
19:02The fair-haired chap.
19:04In fact I understand he withdrew you.
19:05Very good.
19:06Oh one picks up a sort of instinct about it.
19:08You know when you've been on the circuit a little while.
19:11The circuit?
19:11Well you meet him all the time once you start joining him yourself.
19:15Surprising the number of same faces you see at all these interviews.
19:17And how long have you been a regular?
19:19Oh about seven or eight months now.
19:22Oh come on.
19:23I've got to catch that 4.37.
19:25Ain't it so late otherwise.
19:26We've been waiting here for half an hour now.
19:28Well that doesn't do you know.
19:29Hanging around and getting yourself all tensed up.
19:33Besides if somebody else is paying for my lunch I see absolutely no reason why I shouldn't enjoy it before.
19:38I suppose I'll be first in Dickinson.
19:40There aren't any Adamses here are there?
19:42No.
19:43Oh well at least I'll get them while they're still half awake.
19:47Mr. Dickinson?
19:49Oh well this is it.
19:52Good luck.
19:59Now we wait.
20:01Yes.
20:06You're overdoing the coffee doses you know.
20:09After the nervous tension and all this extra liquid.
20:11You've got to do something to keep you awake.
20:13Keep going off into deep trances.
20:15Nerves.
20:16Good nerves.
20:17Would you rather be there?
20:20No thank you.
20:22No I'd far rather be here than sitting chewing my nails peeling at the other candidates.
20:26I can't say that I'm enjoying this afternoon.
20:28I'd enjoy it far less if I was down there.
20:32Drink your coffee.
20:36I didn't spill it.
20:38Can't have coffee stains on your interview suit can we?
20:56Good interview?
20:58Hopeless.
20:59I floated the non-streaming ploy and it sank.
21:02Glug.
21:03One old chap in there sitting in the corner.
21:05He was tapping his teeth with his glasses throughout the interview.
21:07When I mentioned non-streaming it damn nearly swallowed them.
21:11Tried my hardest to pull back but no good.
21:14Oh well.
21:15Still that's only one point.
21:16You had a good long interview.
21:17I've got nothing to do with it.
21:19Now one thing I've learned in this business.
21:22There's no such thing as a comprehensive school you know.
21:24But a grammar school comprehensives and there are secondary modern comprehensives.
21:27And this one's going to be a grammar school comprehensive.
21:29Do anything sir.
21:33Mr. Harvey.
21:36Good luck.
21:40He'll never make it.
21:42You think not?
21:43He's too eager.
21:44I think they're far more likely to appoint the steady dependable chap.
21:47You know the safe one.
21:48Oh?
21:49Or go on the records.
21:51They'll put you in rather a good position.
21:53How did you know?
21:54You'd be surprised.
21:55But rumor had it you weren't quite ready for a move yet.
21:58Well I had a particular reason in this case.
22:00Personal really.
22:00Oh?
22:01The grammar school here was my father-in-law so well you have to take these chances when they come
22:06up.
22:06Quite true.
22:07That's another point in your favor.
22:09A very traditionally minded lot in there.
22:11I think so at any rate.
22:13Oh I think you're probably right.
22:15Still.
22:16A lot depends.
22:18What's the local man like?
22:20A very worthy schoolmaster.
22:22Dependable.
22:23A lot of integrity.
22:25A bit behind the times but steady.
22:30Very steady.
22:32Head of the local secondary modern.
22:34Hmm.
22:35Well.
22:36No.
22:42Isn't Ted Phillips going to run you down at the end of the period?
22:45I thought I'd wander down to his car.
22:47Save a bit of time.
22:48Now don't go getting yourself into a state.
22:50It won't do it.
22:51Come in.
22:54Come in.
23:00Well Nicky.
23:01What is it?
23:02Police sir.
23:03Well?
23:04Police sir.
23:05I was sent sir.
23:07Who sent you?
23:09Mr. Edward sir.
23:10For music sir.
23:13Oh well.
23:14In that case you'd better come in and tell me all about it.
23:24Well Nicky.
23:26Why did Mr. Edward send you?
23:28I lost my temper sir.
23:29We all lose our tempers from time to time.
23:32Yes sir.
23:34Well it seems there are two questions I should ask you.
23:37Why did you lose your temper and what did you do when you lost it?
23:41Yes sir.
23:42Oh well I'm asking them.
23:45Well sir.
23:46Tony was.
23:46A boy was pinching me and I said ow.
23:50Is that all?
23:51I said it a bit loud sir.
23:54How loud?
23:55Oh sir.
23:57Ow.
23:57A bit louder than that sir.
23:59And is that all?
24:01Well sir.
24:02Mr. Edward keeps on picking on me because I can't sing.
24:05And he blamed me and I don't think that's fair sir.
24:08Well from my experience on such occasions I'm prepared to hazard a guess that it wasn't your first bit of
24:13noise in that lesson.
24:14Well sir everyone was making noise.
24:17I mean music's so boring.
24:20Well it doesn't seem very much for Mr. Edwards to send you to me does it?
24:24I lost my temper sir.
24:26So you said.
24:26And?
24:27And I called him something sir.
24:31What did you call him?
24:33I...
24:34Can I write it down sir?
24:37Certainly.
24:38It's too bad to be repeated.
24:40I haven't anything to write with sir.
24:55And Mr. Edwards sent you to me?
24:58Yes.
24:59But I didn't come.
25:00You're here?
25:02Yes sir.
25:02But when Mr. Edwards sent me I went to the toilet.
25:06Only someone split on me.
25:08And Mr. Edwards was ever so angry he said if I didn't come this time well...
25:13I see.
25:14Well?
25:16I'm sorry sir.
25:17We're all sorry when the thing blows up aren't we?
25:20I didn't mean to sir.
25:21It just slipped out.
25:22I accept that.
25:23But you should have come when Mr. Edwards sent you.
25:27I was scared sir.
25:29All right.
25:31But you know the rhyme don't you?
25:32You've heard it often enough in assembly.
25:34Tender hearted stroke a nettle and it stings you for your pains.
25:39Grasp it like a man of metal, not but soft as silk remains.
25:43Exactly.
25:44He should have come you know.
25:46Not run away to hide.
25:47Yes sir.
25:47It's no good running away from things.
25:50No matter how far you run they're always there.
25:53Yes sir.
25:55What must you do?
25:58Say I'm sorry to Mr. Edwards sir.
26:00Exactly.
26:01Do it properly mind.
26:02I shall ask Mr. Edwards.
26:04I will sir.
26:05Promise.
26:06All right then.
26:08That's all sir.
26:10Say you're sorry to Mr. Edwards.
26:11Yes sir.
26:13Thank you sir.
26:14I will.
26:14Thank you sir.
26:17Thank you sir.
26:21Well well.
26:22What did he call Edwards?
26:24Oddly enough.
26:25A cow.
26:28Ready squire?
26:30Good lord.
26:32I've forgotten all about it.
26:34That's what I call real cool.
26:37I won't wish you luck.
26:38I know your superstition.
26:40Thanks.
26:42Save your breath and get ready to open the champagne.
26:51There you are.
26:52Thought for a moment you weren't coming.
26:53Sorry.
26:54They're all ready for you.
26:55Come on.
26:56Just a minute.
26:57You won't need that will you?
27:03Good luck.
27:11Coming straight from his school like that is no time to collect his thoughts.
27:14Oh don't you believe it.
27:16He'll go in there without a scrap of tension.
27:26Mr. Chairman.
27:27Members of the committee.
27:28Mr. Fisher.
27:29Fisher.
27:30Hello Mr. Fisher.
27:31Sit down Mr. Fisher.
27:34This is the man on the spot then.
27:37One of the spots sir.
27:39True.
27:39True.
27:41Well ladies and gentlemen I suggest we follow the same procedure.
27:44So Miss Williams if you'd care to...
27:48Mr. Fisher.
27:49I wonder could you outline for us what you feel to be the most important factors in this new situation?
27:56Well I think it's impossible to divorce the situation from its background.
28:00I mean the whole scheme was open to such public debate.
28:03Passions were aroused.
28:05Prejudice is confirmed.
28:07To my mind the great need is for stability and confidence.
28:12A period of quiet.
28:13Putting down roots.
28:15It seems to me that the...
28:16Oh well bang goes the 437.
28:18Unless of course they've already made up their minds.
28:21I suppose in any case they'll have another cup of tea.
28:23To give the impression they're giving us all due consideration.
28:26Little how it'll be worth going home at this rate.
28:28Another interview tomorrow.
28:30Another?
28:30Mm.
28:31Leatherbury.
28:31New town.
28:33Quite a chance there I think.
28:35Oh they're the place for comprehensions you know.
28:37Custom built most of them.
28:38New buildings, go-ahead staffs.
28:40None of this pulling two places together business.
28:43I wouldn't mind that one.
28:45And the day after.
28:47Back to the grindstone.
28:49No more this week.
28:51Not many more to come as matter of fact.
28:53It's getting a bit near the close season now.
28:56I'm gonna have to get one pretty soon if I'm gonna get one at all this term.
28:59Mr. Fisher.
29:02You don't have a degree.
29:05No.
29:07But you have a number of diplomas have you not?
29:10And a great many courses I seem to remember.
29:13Yes I have a number of diplomas and I have attended a number of summer schools, weekend courses and so
29:20on.
29:20The details are there.
29:22I suppose that means you're well up with all the modern theories.
29:25I think I can claim a reasonable knowledge of them.
29:27Does that mean that if you were appointed we'd be seeing lots of new ideas put into practice?
29:32Well some certainly.
29:34I think that's inevitable.
29:36But not too many I feel and not too fast.
29:39Perhaps you could give us some examples.
29:42Well the great call now is for breaking down barriers between subjects and setting up integrated situa...
29:49I'm sorry one slips into the jargon.
29:52Not at all Mr. Fisher.
29:53I'm sure we all follow your meaning.
29:55Everyone has to have a splash of the jargon nowadays.
29:59Even I've heard of modern maths which I freely confess is quite beyond me.
30:03But not beyond your children perhaps.
30:04Half the things they do nowadays I've never even heard of.
30:07Makes me feel a bit behind the times.
30:09I don't think you need to feel that you know.
30:11Some of the new names are just another way of defining areas of study.
30:15Perhaps where two subjects overlap.
30:17Yes and it can go further than that can't it?
30:19Oh it can do.
30:20Grouping subjects in radically new ways.
30:23And pupils and teachers.
30:25Individual work.
30:26Work in groups and setting aside traditional restraint.
30:29And you'd be prepared to try all that?
30:31I didn't say that.
30:33I said that these were some of the things that could be done.
30:36Especially with the younger children.
30:37But would you?
30:42Well I think before I'd make any change.
30:45Any radical change.
30:48I'd need to feel very sure of its acceptance in three areas.
30:51Parents.
30:52And I think we're in danger of losing them.
30:55Teachers.
30:56Who have their own limitations.
30:59And children.
31:00Who I feel often have a very strong instinct about these things.
31:04And then I'd think about it.
31:06That's very sound.
31:09Very sound.
31:12Mr. Fisher.
31:13How important is a degree do you think in this context?
31:18Put it this way.
31:19I'm reasonably sure it's useful to have one.
31:23Now Mr. Fisher coming back to my point.
31:26The grammar school staff.
31:28All academically extremely well qualified.
31:31But above all desperately concerned about any erosion of academic standards.
31:36I mean after all.
31:37A grammar school.
31:38This won't be a grammar school will it?
31:39It'll be a comprehensive.
31:41And the way I see it.
31:42If a comprehensive is going to mean anything.
31:45It's going to mean respect for the individual.
31:47Will they?
31:48But a great part of your job will be to ensure that those standards are not allowed to slide.
31:53Now won't it?
31:54With all due respect sir that'll be the job of my heads of department.
31:58My job is to see that the situation encourages and supports them in this.
32:03And to ensure an atmosphere of stability and confidence.
32:28How did it go?
32:30You know I've no idea.
32:32I said what I wanted to though.
32:34That's the main thing.
32:39How long do we wait do you think?
32:59I went to one interview.
33:01Goodness knows what they found to talk about.
33:02We didn't get away until nearly eight.
33:04I couldn't get a taxi.
33:06I had to walk all the way to the station.
33:07No buses.
33:08At least if there were I didn't see any.
33:10Deadly hole.
33:12And another place.
33:13One chap at the morning interview says
33:15there's no point you lot hanging around all day you know.
33:17And I've got the job.
33:19And damn me he had.
33:20Still I stung them pretty smartish over the expenses.
33:23I didn't lose out completely.
33:38Mr. Russell would you mind?
33:49Well gentlemen I hope you'll not feel too disappointed.
33:53I always feel it's a great pity we can't appoint the lot when we get a field as good as
33:56this.
33:57Still we can't and that means the rest must feel a bit disappointed.
34:02Still I would like to thank you all for coming today.
34:04Thank you very much.
34:05I have a train to catch.
34:10If you hand in your claim form at reception.
34:22Tom.
34:23Well you did tell me after all.
34:25Look I...
34:26Not I.
34:28I'm off home.
34:30What about a claim form? Did I give you one?
34:33Not necessary.
34:34No claim.
34:35No claim whatsoever.
34:42No claim.
34:43Not necessary.
34:44I now?
34:55I've taken the book in front of the court.
34:55I brought it back to the court.
34:55Let me ask you.
34:55No claim to be the court.
34:56Not necessary.
34:56In Lord Jesus Christ.
34:56No claim for?
34:56Not necessary.
35:08And I, as a woman for the court.
35:09still here? yes I just wanted to hang about long enough so I didn't have to
35:14travel down with Dickinson. I don't think I could take any more of him. I don't understand that.
35:18I mean I don't know how you feel about it but I've never come across anything quite like it of
35:21you.
35:23I haven't had all that experience of interviews of this caliber.
35:27more of any caliber for them really. that's right.
35:32I mean I went for this job because I wanted to.
35:34not like him. not like picking up a card at a bingo game. he was just calculating two years
35:41move on two years move on. do you see what I mean? yes I see what you mean.
35:45I've been in my present job nearly 50 years. yes well I... closing is done.
35:49re-organization. oh I'm sorry. that's why I wanted this job. not like him having a shot
35:57today and another shot tomorrow. I wanted it. I understand. of course they'll find me something
36:02something or other but no one will know it was just a consolation prize. yes.
36:25look if you've somewhere to go perhaps I can...
36:29I just wanted to wait long enough to miss him. I hope you didn't mind to be talking to you
36:34like this.
36:34well I'll be on my way. it should be far enough ahead by now.
36:39sorry it's rather rotten luck for you too.
36:41yes yes it is. still no doubt I'll survive.
36:58well? no love.
37:04who got it? Russell.
37:08as expected really.
37:10I think I gave him a run for his money. I'm glad.
37:15like one? mmm.
37:19thanks.
37:24what was it like then? the interview?
37:28oh that was all right. you know I almost enjoyed it.
37:33said what I wanted to anyway.
37:37well good for you.
37:52right. you... thank you. um... there. different colors. green for maths, red for english and so on.
38:00oh I get that all right. make it easier to follow in a way.
38:03well yes that was the intention. and the three columns?
38:06oh yes I was coming to that. the left hand one for the first year. the right hand for the
38:10second.
38:10and the middle for times when they're working jointly.
38:12oh well that means... oh I'm sorry. sorry.
38:18they'll be working together some of the time then.
38:20well yes that's the implication.
38:21well why's that then?
38:22well sometimes to make the most effective use of specialist spaces.
38:25oh yes I remember you said sorry to be so dense but this is all a bit new to us
38:30you see.
38:31well yes of course it must be very confusing at first.
38:33yes but I'm sure you'll soon find it as simple as the old way.
38:35yeah.
38:36yes I'm sure it's just as well old dogs new tricks you know.
38:42what do you think to it squire?
38:44well I see the advantages of it of course.
38:47obviously with the two schools... the two sections that is.
38:51there'll be better ways of going about things obviously.
38:54but there are so many implications.
38:58well that really is the point of this meeting.
39:00yes well of course I understand the value of consultation and appreciate it very much but...
39:06well it's uh it's just that...
39:11oh thank you I was wondering...
39:14it's just that...
39:16I'd be happier if I'd had time...
39:19well time to...
39:20point taken we're working through a very tight schedule unfortunately.
39:23oh fiddle.
39:24June couldn't that possibly wait? I mean it's very distracting.
39:27I must have a tight working schedule too you know.
39:30I've just this couple more to do.
39:34there is just one thing.
39:36I've been counting your little boxes.
39:37my?
39:38the number of periods each day.
39:40yes.
39:40well there's a gum up on Thursdays.
39:42gum up?
39:43yes see for yourself.
39:44one two three four five six seven eight nine.
39:47you've got one too many.
39:48well that wasn't unintentional.
39:50oh I'm sorry I...
39:51I took it for granted.
39:53I mean with eight periods every other day and Thursday with nine.
39:56I took it for granted that you...
39:57well it's a simple mistake to make.
40:00it solved a number of administrative problems.
40:03yes but well...
40:06well?
40:07well I mean the times won't match will they?
40:11oh well Thursday's timing will be different from those.
40:13dinner hour will be brought back fifteen minutes.
40:15yes it works tolerably well.
40:17yes but then I mean we've always...
40:20I mean won't people find it um...
40:22what?
40:23well confusing.
40:25it will be different from what you've been used to certainly.
40:27but I'm sure you'll soon come to cope very easily with it.
40:30oh not just us I mean the kids.
40:33well the average school child is an infinitely adaptable organism.
40:36but is his mum?
40:38I'm sorry I don't understand.
40:40well I was thinking of Billy Watkins.
40:42I mean his mum works shifts and as things are
40:44well she only just manages to get him his dinner and back to school on time with the new reform
40:48Thursday.
40:49I'm sorry I don't see it as a major problem.
40:50he can stay to school dinners that day.
40:52but he doesn't...
40:52or bring sandwiches.
40:53I really don't think it is a matter of major importance.
40:57except of Billy's mum.
40:59I suppose you couldn't...
41:00no thank you not.
41:02it would throw up too many inflexibilities.
41:04I'll say good night then.
41:08perhaps we can go through these figures in the morning.
41:11yes yes I'm sure we'll find time.
41:12but they are bound to be correct.
41:14they always are.
41:15shall I leave the keys?
41:17hmm?
41:17that is if you're going home tonight.
41:20good lord.
41:21is that really the time?
41:23yes it is.
41:23nevertheless I do think we should try and finish.
41:25oh of course yes we just...
41:28leave the keys Joan.
41:30you could always sleep in the medical room.
41:32it's never come to that yet.
41:34I'll see you tomorrow.
41:40are you sure there's nothing I could...
41:42there's nothing.
41:43good night June.
41:44good night June.
41:46good night.
41:47good night.
41:49good night.
41:52good night.
41:53how are you fix Ted?
41:54I can stay a bit longer.
41:55we gotta be back for some...
41:56we're almost through now it's...
41:58just a few points in detail and administrative necessity.
42:01we'll decide most of those.
42:02very well if you say so. just one more thing. those arrows. those are related
42:09subjects. it's a little difficult to explain in detail. they don't stand
42:15separately. they link up with each other. oh yes and we get a dose of that from
42:19time to time when Squire here has been on one of those courses of his. sounds
42:23interesting but not all that easier shouldn't it? well if it's not entirely
42:26new to you that's certainly an advantage. it's in line with current thinking you
42:29see. break down the barriers between subjects. get rid of some of the
42:32traditional restraints. especially for the younger ones. oh yes but don't forget
42:35that some of us old stick in the muds rather feel we want to hold on to some of
42:39those restraints. I assure you the advantages are considerable. I've seen it
42:43happen. subjects come together. people come together. try out new ways of working. not
42:47just individually but together. staff as well as children. the excitement it
42:52engenders is well it's worth the extra effort. believe me you're not tied you
42:57see to a limited subject. to one working pattern or into the school building
43:01itself. it's so flexible. yeah. well um they all seem to home in on this one. well yes.
43:11I can't quite see sign. music. music oh. yes they all focus on that. it is as it were the
43:17focus.
43:17oh well. anyway that's something. oh. yes certainly. I mean any change there is bound to be for the better.
43:23change. yes but. well if it's going to be the focus. focus yes. then you want
43:27somebody decent in the middle. will you bring Pringle down. down. from the grammar.
43:31from the old grammar. but that wasn't the intention. but you're never leaving
43:36Jeff Edwards there. why not? it's his department. but Jeff Edwards. you've never even seen him. on the contrary I
43:43have.
43:43no in action I mean. seen him in action. or heard him rather. look I tell you the only
43:48thing he's ever been the focus of is a bloody riot. the number of times that
43:52squire he has had to... well you'd be amazed. all right. I grant you he talks well
43:57enough outside the classroom but the fact is the kids loathe him and the feelings
44:01mutual. well it's still you you wouldn't know that of course. oh we'll have to see
44:07won't we. but you don't mean... you're going to do it. I'm going to back my
44:15judgment. look look you tell him squire you had more to do with it than I have. I
44:37I'm telling you you've simply no idea. that man of all the useless... oh I know you
44:43probably think I'm prejudiced but honestly. he has certain ideas that
44:47interest me and I can see them working out rather well. look I'm prepared to
44:50back my judgment on the matter. you're wrong you know. really. all right you
44:55talk to him or he talks to you more like. he sounds like the original golden
44:59boy knows it all. but you just want to see him in action. I tell you you can have no
45:03idea. look it's the kids I'm worried about. Ted. I think we're all tired. I had
45:16hope that we could get it through but as it is perhaps we'll be more successful
45:21tomorrow evening. tomorrow I'm afraid I can't manage tomorrow. sorry squire but it's
45:26the final of the snooker championship. more than my life's worth to miss those.
45:29well then we shall have to manage without you won't we. it's got to be done. we're way
45:32behind as it is. can you manage tomorrow evening? yes of course. well I'll be on my
45:37way then. Mary will be wondering what's happened to me.
45:43surprised she hasn't phoned.
45:47trusts me I suppose. well if she does well tell her I'm on my way will you? yes.
45:53good night squad. good night Ted. thanks for putting in the time. oh that. well she'd appreciate it.
46:00put your feet up. relax. wish I could. good night then. good night I'm afraid he's
46:13rather upset. oh he'll come down. he's tired and hungry. great one for regular
46:19mealtime Mrs. Ted. well I hope he will. will? come down. oh he will. he's a very steady chap
46:29really. just likes to know where he stands. any change makes him uncomfortable.
46:37well he'll have to accept a certain amount of change. we all shall. no doubt.
46:44as long as he can keep his bearings. I'll make a note of it. don't upset the bearings.
46:49only I wish he wouldn't keep calling you squire. so do I as a matter of fact.
46:54just one of the things I've come to accept in the course of good relationships.
46:57oh yes I can see that. do all the staff use the term? amongst themselves most of them I think.
47:05except Jeff Edwards of course. well this won't do.
47:10can't bring ourselves to leave the place I don't know.
47:13and you'll try and have a word with Edwards tomorrow.
47:16what sort of a word would you suggest I have?
47:19I just thought it would be valuable for the two of you to have a talk together. to what end?
47:24I think you should understand what he's trying to do.
47:27after all it'll affect you very directly.
47:29I don't think there's a great deal of point in it.
47:32I simply wouldn't know what to say.
47:34quite likely that I'd do more harm than good.
47:36I mean a bit later on possibly yes.
47:38but I think he might do more harm if you said nothing
47:40and left him with the impression that you disapprove of him and what he's doing.
47:43I don't disapprove of him. he thinks you do.
47:49it seems that everything that had to be said has been.
47:52well he has talked to me yes.
47:54at some length.
48:01I'm sorry.
48:03I didn't know.
48:05he had some ideas that he wanted to talk about
48:07and he felt it was a good time to talk about them.
48:10he felt things might be changing.
48:12oh they're doing that all right.
48:13but don't you see they have.
48:15they have changed whether we like it or not.
48:17there used to be two schools and now there's one.
48:19well that's a big enough change for a start.
48:22oh look if there's got to be change then let's have it.
48:24and as much as needs be let's make an opportunity of it not a burden.
48:27all right yes well let's talk about it tomorrow shall we.
48:32all right.
48:34but you will try and have a word with Edwards tomorrow.
48:36let's leave it at that.
48:37I'm tired.
48:38we're both tired but I think it's part of your job.
48:41my job?
48:42I wish I knew what my job was.
48:44well I thought we'd agreed on that at any rate.
48:46we discussed it long enough in all conscience.
48:49all right fair point.
48:51but you must understand that I didn't know at the time that whilst you were listening to me with one
48:55ear
48:55Jeff Edwards was pouring all his grievances into the other one.
48:58that's not really a fair comment.
49:00and even if it were it's not exactly relevant.
49:03oh all right possibly not but uh
49:06let's leave it shall we and call it today.
49:08all right.
49:09but I'd like you to remember that I've asked you.
49:12not directed not issued a memo.
49:14I've asked you.
49:15I just don't see why it has to become such an issue.
49:18my sole idea was simply to ease things.
49:21not to make a confrontation.
49:22and I don't see why you have to take it as one either.
49:26all right I got the job but you went for it.
49:29and came pretty close I've no doubt.
49:31now you may feel I'm breathing down your neck.
49:34well I might feel the very same way about you.
49:36let's leave it at that.
49:37look don't you understand?
49:40after all it's only common sense to want to tackle things the easiest way.
49:43and as far as I'm concerned the easiest way is by agreement.
49:46all right.
49:47we could slog it out toe to toe.
49:49that would be one way.
49:50and I might reduce you to pulp and you very well might reduce me.
49:53but one thing is certain.
49:54we would without a shadow of a doubt
49:56crumble the school into little pieces.
49:57now surely that can't be what you want.
50:01you think that's what I want?
50:04how can I get through to you?
50:09sentimental statement.
50:11I've given years of my life to this place.
50:14I know it.
50:15there's a great deal of me in it.
50:22how can you get through to me you say?
50:26how about letting me get through to you for a change?
50:29oh let it go.
50:32let it go with that.
50:33I'll see myself out.
50:38good night squire.
50:41good night headmaster.
50:43headmaster.
51:50Tom?
51:51In here.
51:55Your wife said you'd probably still be here.
51:58Working late again.
52:00Not exactly.
52:01Just taking a look round before it turns into a pumpkin or something.
52:06I'm just on my way to Joolands for their open evening.
52:08I'll give you a lift if you're still going.
52:10I'm tired.
52:12You've had a session.
52:14We've had another session.
52:16Would you rather have a lift home?
52:18And the really futile thing about it is that whether we're talking about staffing problems, timetables, what color the school
52:25blazer should be, or school dinners, all we ever really say is, you got the job I wanted and you're
52:31a permanent embarrassment to me.
52:33I'm sorry, Tom.
52:35Thanks.
52:37And I keep telling myself worse things happen at sea.
52:40Or so I'm told.
52:41Why don't you go home?
52:43Because I take the place with me and I don't know what you do about it.
52:48They, um, they didn't appoint at Hazelwood Junior.
52:51They're still looking.
52:53You're trying to leave me out of the place, aren't you?
52:55I'm just trying to find a solution that will cause as little damage as possible.
52:59And if I went, what would it solve?
53:02I mean, Phillips this evening.
53:05If I did go, I mean, who put a spoke in for him and the others?
53:08They look to me.
53:09Perhaps they'll learn to come up with their own solutions instead of relying on you.
53:15All right.
53:17That may be a fair point.
53:19But the kids?
53:20You have to remember you don't hold the monopoly of concern for children.
53:26My God.
53:27It's a hard time.
53:34Sometimes I think we ought to teach them the spelling of the more commonly used offensive words.
53:38Might improve the standard of graffiti, if nothing else.
53:41You're in danger of becoming a progressive.
53:43Always have been.
53:45Just forgot to put a big label on myself, so no one will believe me.
53:48Now then.
53:49Now then, yes.
53:51It's the label that counts.
53:53Not the contents.
53:57I must go.
53:59They'll think I've forgotten and they wouldn't be very pleased about that.
54:03All right.
54:05But you'll think about it.
54:06It?
54:07What I said.
54:09Oh, the neat solution.
54:10It wouldn't solve it.
54:12There are plenty of things it wouldn't.
54:14And plenty of things it would.
54:16Now think about it.
54:17Nothing's perfect after all.
54:19It's an imperfect world.
54:22You can say that again.
54:26You push on.
54:28And thanks.
54:29Good night, Tom.
54:32Good night, Tom.
54:41Good night.
54:49Good night, Tom.
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