Mr. R. F. Wheatley, B.Sc.

It is with deep regret we record the death at 69 of Mr. R. F. Wheatley, B.Sc., former headmaster of the William Baker School, Goldings, Hertford.

He joined the School in 1945 as its first headmaster, the previous principal officers having been governors, and he brought with him an enthusiasm and vision that lifted the standards and improved the conditions for staff and boys. His endeavours in this direction were continuous throughout his service.

Faced with post‑war shortages and rationing of materials his plans were often frustrated, but never did he accept they were not possible and gradually new buildings appeared and the dormitories in the mansion achieved a new look.

Living in the mansion he was constantly in contact with the boys and had little time for personal pursuits. A keen cricketer, he was a member of the school team, commanding his place on ability.

The boys of his time are now mature men, scattered throughout the world, in diverse occupations: businessmen, teachers, missionaries, craftsmen.

All, I am sure, have affection in their hearts for the man who was always striving to improve the quality of their lives.

The decision in 1966, the year of his retirement, to close Goldings the following year made him very unhappy.

However, the young men who passed through the school during his twenty‑one years' service are still living proof of the school's motto: Finis Coronat Opus ‑"The End Crowns The Work".

R. Stackwood
Principal, Barnardo School of Printing

Reproduced from The Guild Messenger