1970s

Killara High School in the 1970s:

1970s:

In 1970, KHS students and teachers moved into the completed Stage 1 buildings of A and C Blocks, with B Block being under construction. There were 480 students in three forms.

At the KHS P&C Association’s meeting that was held on the new school site in February 1970, the Deputy Principal stated that KHS parents should be pleased to know that Killara High School had a larger percentage of experienced and senior staff than any new high school built since the last war.

“Oh, Killara!”

“The Killara High P&C Association, together with the Principal, have much pleasure in inviting the staff, all students of the school, their parents and families to join together at a barbecue to be held in the school grounds on Saturday, May 23rd, from 4.00 to 8.00 pm.

This occasion which has been arranged primarily for the pleasure of the children, will commence with a tree planting ceremony of some fourteen trees by representatives from every class in the school. The grounds will be flood-lit and there will be a pop group providing music for dancing, however, the Principal requests that every pupil be accompanied by a parent.

The canteen will be open for the purchase of tea, coffee, soft drinks, chips, paddle pops etc. at the usual prices, but please take note that these will be the only charges made.

Four barbecues manned by our experienced chefs will be at your disposal so all you have to do is come along, bring your own meat and a plate and have a thoroughly enjoyable time.”

[circa 1970– P&C document]

In 1970, KHS had a presentation ceremony for the new library. Ceremonial scissors were organised, official invitations sent out, a dais was set up, the gates were painted and the grounds attractively set out.

One of the organised features was the transport of palms from Lord Howe Island.  A Mr Ward gave KHS the palms, and a Captain Maundrell arranged for their transport from Lord Howe Island.

In 1970, the English/History Department was the first official department to be established at KHS, as is the custom of most new schools. The required number of periods had to be maintained for two years. Even though it was the largest department in the school, by 1971, KHS only had a combined total of one hundred and forty three periods. When the number reached three hundred, separate English and History departments were to be created.

On 24th April, 1970 KHS students conducted an ANZAC Service. A 3rd form [year 9] KHS female student gave the address, and a 3rd form [year 9] KHS male student recited ‘Ode to the Fallen.’

In 1970, eyesight and hearing tests were done at the school. The parents of any child found in need of attention would be notified in writing from the School Education Clinics at Chatswood.

In 1970, the Ladies Auxiliary was delighted to donate to KHS a tea and coffee service for eight, for use of the Principal when entertaining guests.

In 1970, two demountable classrooms were erected. If six new Form 1 [year 7] classes been formed in 1971, these two additional rooms would have been inadequate for KHS’s needs. With only five new classes, it was possible to accommodate all class groups by making use of the Technical Drawing rooms, Art and Needlework Rooms for smaller elective groups.

In 1970, a call was put out to the community for a Mathematics or Science teacher to teach at KHS in Term 3, 1970. Applicants with a degree were preferred. The classes that would be taught, were forms I – III [Years 7-9].

In 1970, thirty 2nd and 3rd Form KHS girls [years 8-9] played hockey in the inter-school competition. They practised every Wednesday, for the Thursday games. KHS teams were at a disadvantage since the majority of the other school teams were 4th formers [year 10]. However, the KHS girls still managed one win and several drawn games.

In 1970, the relatively new five-a-side basketball game was becoming quite popular. The majority of KHS girls who play this sport had five wins and three losses.

In 1970, there were four KHS squash teams that entered in the B grade, C grade, D grade and E grade. The C Grade was undefeated at least until mid 1970, and all other teams enjoyed a majority of wins.

By mid 1970, approval for four hundred more lockers was received from the Department of Education. They were to be placed in selected areas of  Blocks A, B, C, and D.

In 1970, a school orchestra was beginning to be formed. Over $300.00 worth of instruments had been obtained from the Education Department. However, there were shortages in the wind, string and percussion sections. Parents were asked if they could assist with supplying any of these instruments if they were able to.

In 1970, Gordon Rugby Union Football Club donated a set of football jumpers and socks for the school football team. Also, over $600.00 worth of P.E. equipment was approved by the Department of Education. A further $200.00 was to be spent to cover a full P.E. program during the winter term.

In 1970, the KHS boys’ tennis group were placed exceptionally high in the competition.

In Rugby, KHS tasted their first success against Ku-ring-gai, and played well against Turramurra HS, while being defeated easily against Carlingford HS.

In 1970, a Judo Club commenced in July, which met after school on Mondays for about 1½ hrs.

A gymnastics club was also started for first form boys [year 7 boys] before school on Monday and Wednesday mornings.

In 1970, KHS’s school athletics carnival was held at the Rotary Oval, Chatswood on Monday July 27, 1970.

In 1970, a thank you was extended to all KHS parents who contributed second-hand clothing for children at the Fairbridge Farm School at Molong. Hair curlers for girls were particularly welcomed.

In 1970, the Manual Arts Department obtained a circular saw which had been originally installed at North Sydney Technical High School. It was a welcome addition to their department, because it was not a standard item of issue and would normally be purchased by the P. and C. Association.

In 1970, the Manual Arts Department of KHS was hoping [through advertising in the KHS news issue of August 1970] to acquire a 1955-56 Austin A30 car (mechanically complete), which could be stripped to its chassis and adapted to provide practical opportunity for instruction in the operation of its mechanical components.

1971:

In 1971, KHS numbers increased to 618 students over four forms. The founding principal, Mr T.E. Hornibrook sadly passed away after illness, and Mrs Betty Bowen was appointed principal.

In 1971, a mannequin parade was organised by the Needlework Department for the Ladies Auxiliary to view. The work was done by the girls of 1st – 4th form [years 7-10] elective and craft classes. The garments paraded were: shortie nighties and pyjamas, brunch coats, skirts in midi mini and maxi lengths, suits, gauchos and knickerbockers pants, as well as formal and informal evening gowns.

In 1971, a remedial class was established for ten form 2 students [year 8]; and fifteen form 1 students [year 7]. Therefore the total school population stood at 618 students, with 299 boys and 319 girls.

In 1971 it was noted that form 2 [year 8] had the largest classes – all close to the Departmental maximum of forty student per class. Form 1 [year 7] numbers were lower than expected and were smaller classes than in the higher forms.

In 1971, KHS school fees were as follows:             

• form 1 [year 7]                 $12.00
• form 2 [year 8]                 $12.00
• form 3 [year 9]                 $14.00
• form 4 [year 10]               $16.00

Concessions were available to families with more than one child at KHS.

In February 1971, the construction of Block D was progressing well, despite recent rain. KHS was looking forward to conducting their 1971 School Certificate exams in the new building –  away from the playground.

Staffing at KHS in 1971 was regarded as probably better than many other high schools. In February 1971, KHS was still awaiting for an additional teacher to be appointed in the Commerce Department, so several relief teachers were used to meet this shortage, and to allow two teachers to be withdrawn to prepare the permanent timetable. A permanent timetable was to come into effect in the 4th week of term. Meanwhile, most classes were able to receive instruction commencing in week 1 from teachers who would be taking them during the year.

A Mathematics Master was appointed in 1971. In 1972 it was expected to also have Subject Masters in Science, Commerce, Languages and Manual Arts.

In 1971, Latin was withdrawn from elective courses for form 2 [year 8] due to lack of students requesting it. Japanese, French and German were maintained with good numbers. Music was added to Elective Group B, and Technical Drawing was included in both A and B Elective Groups. An innovation in 1971 was the new approach to foreign language study in form 1 [year 7]. Students were introduced to Latin, French and German from the very beginning of the year, in order to assist students in the choice of language electives for study in the years that followed.

In 1971, the issue of lockers began. A deposit of $1.00 was paid, and this sum was refunded when the key was returned. Preference was given to senior classes whose load was the heaviest. However, even for form 1 [year 7] classes, lockers were made available to pupils for reasons of poor health or physical disability. Consideration was also given to students who have to walk a long distance to catch a bus.

In 1971, integrated sport was to be carried out in all forms [years]. Thursday afternoon was sport, and it was hoped that with careful planning some inter-school games could be played.

In 1971, a 12 year old KHS female student created five records at the Ku-ring-Gai Zone swimming carnival. KHS had two female age champions – this 12 year old, and a 13 year old student.

In 1971, the need for a public address system was a priority at KHS and was a main project for the P&C Association. As each of the school buildings were built in the school, conduit and junction boxes were installed for this very purpose. The original understanding was that the Department of Education would supply and install a PA system, but later KHS was told that it is up to the KHS P&C. There was therefore a push to continue their with their endeavours and increase their income. Some activities that were organised as fund raisers were through the Ladies Auxiliary in the form of a dinner dance and a Melbourne Cup luncheon.

In 1971, KHS parents were invited to the school to discuss subject choices for 1972. The following  main points were discussed:

• 2nd form students [year 8] must take four core subjects – English, Maths, Science, and either History or Geography (provision would be made for students desiring to do both History and Geography).
• A choice of two elective subjects must be made. Not all subjects or subject combinations would be possible – pupils’ choices would determine the possibilities.
• Levels were not finally decided until late in 3rd form [year 9], except for Maths and Science.
• Subjects studied in the junior school would not be necessarily those studied in 5th and 6th form [years 11 and 12], where new subjects are introduced.
• Parents were advised to guide selection but not to press for subjects which are to their own liking.
• Craft choices would be offered, but it was dependent on numbers and staffing.
• No changes in subjects were allowed after choices made.

In 1971, the subject of the new summer uniform for 5th and 6th form girls was discussed and subsequently a dress was submitted for inspection by a uniform manufacturer to the Uniform Committee under the guidance of the Principal.

The passing of Killara’s first Principal

“Killara High School had been established in its permanent home in Koola Avenue for only little over a year, when it suffered the loss of its foundation principal, Mr T.E. Hornibrook.

The late Mr Hornibrook had fought tenaciously in co-operation with the staff, parents and pupils for the retention of North Sydney Technical High School of which he was a principal for many years. When it became certain that the school could not be kept open, Mr Hornibrook devoted his energies to establishing the new High School at Killara on a firm basis. He saw to it that the staff and pupils of the old school were satisfactorily placed and he was successful in securing the transfer of the valuable N.S.T.H.S. Library in its entirety to the new school where it is enshrined as “The Lion Library”. Such was the loyalty and friendship he inspired that ten members of his staff accompanied him to Killara.

Everyone at Killara High School in 1970 will remember Mr Hornibrook’s quiet gentle manner; his frequent commendations and expressions of confidence in the future of the school and its citizens. His friends of longer standing will remember his concern for his staff and his pupils, his deep scholarship, his sense of humour and, above all, his warm humanity.

Vale, Tom Hornibrook!”

[Obituary written in The Green Years, Vol. 1, 1971]

In 1972, Block D was occupied.

In 1972, a contract for a Public Address System was approved, and Flett Electronics installed the system at KHS.

In 1972, after the last P&C AGM, an ‘Action Committee’ was formed to look into ways and means of speeding up the building of Block E. By the time of issue of KHS News for April/May 1972, however, the committee found that Block E would not be under way in 1972. This was because there was no budget allowance in the July 1971-June 1972 financial year; and also because the 1973 expected enrolment at KHS did not warrant the building of Block E, according to the North Sydney Area Director, whom the committee consulted with. By the Nov/Dec issue of Killara News in 1972, however it was reported that Stage 3 – Block E was “on its way!”. Funds had been made available and the school believed that tenders had been called. It was expected at this time that building would commence in 1973, and it was hoped, completed in 1974.

In 1972, after many parents & students commented on the lack of social activity in the Killara area, there was a proposal for a Social Club to be formed, with the Principal’s permission. Provided that there were some adults were in attendance, KHS could be used as a meeting place either in the evening or at the weekend. Activities proposed for this social club included:

• learning to drive – in theory & practice
• dancing
• photography
• debates
• bushwalking
• community aid

A call was put out to parents for experts in some of these areas; or parents just willing to help supervise.

In 1972, two AWA Television sets were purchased with the money raised from the family barbecue.

In 1972, KHS students were ‘fined’ for not wearing uniform on ‘non-uniform day’, i.e. a mufti day (or Killara High’s ‘Hobo Day’, as an eight year old child remarked). The sum of $15.00 was raised. This was regarded as a marvellous way for raising funds for a needy cause.

KHS song, 1972

In 1972, due to the ‘enormous nuisance’ of dogs in the school grounds, a call was put out to any fathers of KHS students who may work for a company that manufactured poles on which to attach the garbage tins. Late in 1972, the canteen chairman supplied the galvanised elevated “garbage-tin-holder-poles”, which worked in keeping the dogs out of the bins.

In 1972, The Ladies Auxiliary reported in the KHS news in August 1972 that their bank balance of $971.36 went towards the following items:

• Two television sets      $609.00
• Soap dispensers for boys and girls washrooms    $106.00
• Twelve dozen cups, saucers and plates   $119.00
• two trans-o-grams for the English Department  $120.00 (on order)

1972 was when the ‘age of electronic education’ began, with the installation of a National Video Tape Recorder and TV replay set.

In 1972, KHS’s 3rd Annual Speech Day was held in the Willoughby Town Hall on Friday, December 8, 1972. The Principal, spoke of the building of E Block in the near future, and the changes in the School Certificate Exam. The guest speaker was a well-known motoring car journalist and racing car driver, who talked about aspects of driving. He pointed out the essential differences between drivers (people who really know what they are doing when in control of a car) and motorists. He and forecasted that within the next twenty years it would become impossible to drive with pleasure.

In 1972, KHS P&C Association had a large supply of wine for sale. The bottles were professionally bottled in the Barossa Valley by the McLaren Vineyard. Parents could taste before they bought, and the money used for KHS. A wine tasting event was held in the canteen area in November from 11am-5pm one day, and parents were reminded that “it’s not any old plonk”. The costs were as follows:

• Riesling:  95 cents per bottle  or $11.40 per dozen
• White burgundy:  $1.25  per bottle or $15.00 per dozen
• Red Shiraz Grenache:  95 cents per bottle or $11.40 per dozen
• Red Shiraz McLaren Vale:  $1.20 per bottle $14.40 per dozen

1973:

In 1973, a KHS Science staff member addressed the P&C and brought along a chemistry kit. The kit cost $10.00 each (and was tax deductible), and although not compulsory in anyway, the kit was thought to be a great incentive to motivate children to work on their own, out of pure interest. The kits were aimed at the junior school, ‘as new thinking in teaching science indicates that more interest is engineered by pupils working on their own, supervised of course by a teacher.’ The Science teacher stated that he could arrange an ‘instalment plan’ for those who have difficulty in finding $10.00 in a lump sum. He also talked of his ambition to have a Science Club within the school, and an Electronics Club was close to being organised.

In 1973, KHS’s Speech Day took place at the Willoughby Civic Centre (also known as Chatswood Town Hall) on December 7, at 10 am. Students attending had to be dressed in full school uniform, and at the conclusion of the function, they could return to school or go home at their parents’ wish.

1974:

In 1974, the KHS Principal was hopeful that Block E would be ready for occupation by the end of term, noted the Killara News in July 1974.

In 1974, the installation of traffic lights at the Birdwood and Koola Avenue intersection was not progressing. The stop sign rule that had become operational in August 1974,  made KHS virtually an inaccessible island, putting students’ lives at risk as they attempted to cross arterial road in peak hour traffic on their way to and from school. At a public meeting held in August 1974, the P&C were told that a traffic policeman would be on duty at the intersection on weekdays at 7-7.30am-9am and 3-6pm. However, the policeman had not been provided. Evidently, it was found that the installation of traffic lights is dependant on certain road works being carried out first by Ku-ring-ai Council. It was suggested that all parents write individually to the Town Clerk of Ku-ring-ai expressing the dissatisfaction and anger over this matter.

In 1974, KHS was annexed to Hornsby Evening College, in line with the thinking of the day that “expensive buildings like schools should be used to their full capacity.” Some of the subjects would be taught by the staff of KHS. The aim was to interest people outside KHS but living in the area to have some personal involvement in the school.

In 1974, the KHS Speech Day was held at the Ku-ring-gai College of Advanced Education. The guest of honour was the Chancellor of Sydney University.

In 1974, the Ladies Auxiliary held a family barbecue in April as a fundraiser for the school. It was the first big social function for the year. Steak dinner was $2.00 and a hamburger dinner was $1.25 (which included two salads, bread and butter, coffee and tea). Mothers were encouraged to help on stalls or supply cakes, and there was music for ‘youngsters’ to dance to. The ladies also organised a ‘Guessing Competition’ at 20 cents a ticket, for which the prize was a large liquor hamper to be drawn at the barbecue.

Other activities organised by the Ladies Auxiliary for 1974 included:

• a dinner dance on a Harbour ferry; 
• theatre party with supper at a private home afterwards
• a bus tour
• card parties
• a Melbourne Cup luncheon
• an Art Show

1975:

In 1975, KHS saw the number of student rise to 1120 with a teaching staff of 68. There was an auxillary staff [school assistants] of 12.

On August 8, 1975, KHS was presented with a 6-cylinder, 3300 Manual Sedan Torana motor vehicle, for the purpose of teaching senior the finer points of driving. The car was presented by Sundell Motors, and each year the car would be replaced by a new one. At the presentation, there were representatives from Sundell Motors, as well as a representative from Ampol who would supply the petrol free of charge, and a representative from GMH who would provide parts.

A gentleman who was directly involved with driver teaching and advanced driver techniques, was also present, as was the Local Member. KHS had the car on Mondays and Tuesdays, while St Ives HS had the use of it on Wednesday s and Thursdays. Advanced driving courses were conducted under the supervision of members of staff who have undertaken lectures and lessons in advanced driving. The call also went out for parents versed in Advance Driving Techniques to assist.

In 1975, KHS gained 1st and 2nd place in a Japanese speaking contest between five other schools. KHS would also be getting a special Language Laboratory, of which there were only two in the State.

In April 1975, 5th form students [year 11] went to Muogamarra for a Science Excursion.

In May, 1975 some of form VI [now year 12] KHS Science students attended a lecture at St Pius School.

In September 1975, KHS took 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the City of Sydney Eisteddfod public speaking section.

In 1975, the KHS entrance foyer was carpeted and furnished as expressly wished by the Ladies Auxiliary.

In 1975, car badges were available from the school office at a cost of $4.50

In 1975, Speech Day was held in the hall of the Ku-ring-gai College of Advanced Education on December 5. The guest speaker was a second year arts-law student and an ex-student of KHS.

In 1975, electricity had been restored to the house on the KHS site, and it began to be used for the following:

• debates
• weight-lifting classes
• meetings by the Ladies’ Auxiliary
• rehearsals for the production of ‘The importance of Being Ernest’

1976:

In 1976, KHS Home Science students were photographed by the Education Department and featured in the official Education Week brochure which was to be used for some years.

In 1976, several KHS textile students were selected to model their garments in the Education Week Fashion Parade at the Hilton Hotel, with a large number of KHS students in the audience.

In 1976, KHS saw the installation of an experimental group Language Learning centre. In the 2nd term of 1975, the Staff Inspector, told KHS that they had been chosen as one of three schools to trial a new type of installation, which would in time probably replace the tradition language laboratory. The room was to be equipped with twelve booths, each with its own special adapted cassette recorder. The students would listen to pre-recorded music, practise language skills and record their own responses, after which they would be able to assess their own performance and re-record if necessary.

It had been thought in the past that the playback/compare phase had little relevance for junior secondary standard learners who were thought to lack the critical sense necessary to appraise their own standards of pronunciation, intonation and grammatical accuracy. However, KHS proved this not to be the case, and the students were making excellent use of the facilities and were becoming very self-critical.

Room 25, which became the room for the Language Leaning Laboratory, would also be furnished with tables and chairs for group written work and with seminar chairs for sitting and reading or for discussion groups. The aim was to allow for flexibility in grouping, movement and activity. Additional equipment included group listening sets and Hanimex cassette players for student borrowing, which was proving a great improvement in standards of performance when students borrowed cassettes for extra practice at home.

In 1976, forty-six year 9 KHS geography students visited Goulburn accompanied by two KHS staff members.

In 1976, a special request came from the First Killara Scout Group requesting that KHS staff refrain from parking in the grounds of the Scout Hall, stating that KHS has a lot of parking spaces, making it of little difficulty in complying with their wishes.

In 1976, three year 10 KHS students decided to resurrect the  KHS’s own radio station, called 2KH. It had commenced in 1974, but had gradually ceased after the departure of ‘its’ electronic wizard’. After six months of negotiations, the station was finally reconnected to the school public system. $60.00 was allocated from the school budget to build mixing and control panels. By 1977, these three students, (now in year 11), with the help of other students, operated the station daily.  It was hoped in 1978 that an active radio club would flourish so that junior disc jockeys, panel operators and record librarians could be trained.

1977:

By April 1977, KHS had a Cadet Unit, consisting of fifty members. They were expanding at this time, and also had a platoon at St Ives HS, where they would all function as a joint unit. An annual camp was held at Singleton, where basic bushcraft, cooking and rifle shooting were taught. The cadets lived in a ‘hutchie’, which was a type of very lightweight tent. All food was provided by the Army, and consisted of four days-ten-man combat ration packs, two days of fresh rations, e.g. ham, steak, and one day in which the cadets had to eat their one-man ration pack and cook it for themselves. All expenses for this camp were met by the Army. A visit to the Infantry museum and other facilities in Singleton were also included. The Principals of Manly Boys HS and Epping Boy’s HS allowed one of their teachers from each of their school, who were Army Lieutenants, to attend and assist at the camp.

In 1977, as a result of increasing school size and a need for greater communication and co-ordination between the Principal, staff, student body and parents, a new position evolved called a Form Master for each year of high school. Their duties were to ensure that each student in their form were adequately employed in subjects of their choice, and to watch their progress to see if they were coping. Extra curricular activities were also aided and guided by the Form Masters, such as fund raising and school balls.

In 1977, there was a large increase in the number of students at KHS studying Home Science and Textiles in the senior school due to the gaining of matriculation status in 1976. There was also an influx of boys into these courses.

In 1977, the KHS Social Science Department [now part of the HSIE Faculty] bought some weather forecasting equipment in order for students to get practical experience in determining weather patterns.

In 1977, seven KHS students took Engineering Science as a HSC subject. Five of the seven received their highest rating in this subject and six were above the State average.

In 1977, 19% of KHS candidates received Grade 1’s in the HSC, while 22% KHS candidates received Grade 1’s in the School Certificate.

In 1977, over 40% of KHS students who sat the HSC achieved positions in the top 20% of the State in both Ancient and Modern history.

In 1977, the Dux of KHS was placed 9th in the State after the HSC examinations.

In 1977, approximately $6,500.00 by KHS was raised for a number of worthwhile community causes.

In 1977, KHS textiles students were again chosen to participate in the Education Week Fashion Parade at the Town Hall. Two year 12 male KHS students were selected to compere the parade.

In 1977, an Archives Committee was instituted in June to collect and collate KHS’s history. By the end of 1978, this committee – which was made up of the prefect masters and prefects – were responsible for the initial development of the special supplement in the 1978 Green Years Yearbook. They also met weekly to sort and classify the school archives.

In 1977, the following school excursions occurred:

• year 8 (one hundred and twenty pupils): a performance of Twelfth Night
• year 11 Biology : the Botanical Gardens
• year 11 Science (2A): the Science Museum Planetarium
• year 12 English: the Independent Theatre
• year 12 – 4 Unit Mathematics: the University of Sydney for lectures

1978:

In 1978, KHS held its 10th anniversary. To commemorate this, a 10th Anniversary Dinner was held at 7.30 pm on Monday 25th September 1978, at the Willoughby Town Hall. The function was organised by a committee with representatives of the P&C, the Ladies Auxiliary, Staff, Ex-Parents and Ex-Students. The dinner was the school’s first major reunion of people involved with KHS.

The cost was $12.00 per person, or $10.00 for ex-students. The dress requirement was “lounge suits”. The dinner menu for the evening consisted of the following:

• Sherry & savouries
• Minted pineapple
• Sliced hot roast turkey
• Ham and vegetables
• Cheese and biscuits
• Coffee and mints
• Liquid refreshments

Nearly two hundred and fifty parents, ex-parents, staff, ex-staff, students and ex-students, together with past friends and helpers of the school attended. There were also representatives from the Department of Education through the attendance of the North Sydney Director, and the district and secondary school inspectors, along with their partners. The recently retired Professional Assistant to the Director and a past member of a local Member of Parliament also attended, whilst the current local members were prevented from attending due to the State elections.

A wooden plaque bearing the school crest and a brass plate were presented to commemorate the outstanding service of the P&C Association President, and the early P&C Association President. The P&C treasurer since KHS’s first inception in 1976 also received a plaque. A judge, also in attendance, proposed the toast to the school. The two KHS’s senior prefects were in attendance. The honour boards were also accepted on the school’s behalf on the evening. KHS’s school archives received a wealth of previously unknown material.

In 1978, the Ladies Auxiliary were responsible for the provision of five honour boards that were installed in the foyer of A Block. The aim was to add to the traditions of KHS. The honour boards were to be presented at the 10th Anniversary Dinner held at Willoughby Town Hall. The honour boards were to record:

• the names of senior prefects (Leadership)
• the names of Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year (Sportsmanship)
• the names of the most successful candidate each year in the HSC (Scholarship)
• the name of the winning House for the Yearly House Competition
• the names of the students awarded the Betty Bowen Memorial Prize annually

The Principal of KHS, at the time hoped that one day these honour boards would grace the walls of the KHS Assembly Hall.

In 1978, the 7th Art Exhibition was held.

In 1978, the Art Department [now part of the Creative and Performing Arts Faculty] held two excursions. Year 8 KHS Art students went on an outdoor sketching day at Echo Point Park. Year 9 KHS Art students went on a tour of art galleries to see exhibitions of primitive art and were privileged to see some demonstrations of craft by Aboriginal Australians at the Blaxland Galleries.

In 1978, the some of Science excursions included:

• year 7: visited Taronga Zoo to study animal classification, and also to West Head
• years 11 and 12 went to the Botanical Gardens to study adaptations in plants
• three students attended a Geology Residential Course at Mitchell College of Advanced Education in Bathurst

In 1978, a computer room was set up by the Mathematics Department to provide all interested students with the opportunity to expand their mathematical skills and knowledge.

In 1978, the Social Science Department [now part of the HSIE Faculty] held the following excursions:

• a three-day excursion for year 12s to Neal Lodge
• a year 11 excursion to the Hawkesbury River
• a year 10 excursion to the General Motors Holden Factory at Pagewood
• a year 9 geography excursion to the city and its environs

In 1978, Family Studies for year 7 in Social Science ceased, as it was considered unnecessary because students were already being taught similar topics in Personal Development.

In 1978, Social Science involved a combination of History and Geography subjects.

Towards the end of 1978,  Japanese National Television cameras televised a year 10 Japanese lesson in the Japanese Room at KHS, as part of a program on Japanese language studies in Australia. As a result KHS, was seen by millions of Japanese viewers on an evening program in Japan.

In late November 1978, the KHS students of Japanese in year 9 were visited by the Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture, in the Japanese room at KHS. An account of his activities was reported in the Women’s Weekly [magazine]. Governor Nagasu took off his shoes and talked informally with students. He described his visit to Killara as the ‘gentle part‘ of his Australian tour.

In 1978, an open forum was organised with the Ku-ring-gai Council Youth Service to discuss the needs of local young people.

In 1978, ten student teachers from Ku-ring-gai College of Advanced Education visited KHS for practice teaching for a few weeks.

In 1978, a junior school dance was held for years 7 and 8 KHS students, and was held in the canteen block in June.

In 1978, the Community Education Committee of the Mental Health Association provided interested parents from KHS to join a series of informal groups in the evening for ten consecutive weeks. There was a minimum of eight and a maximum of fifteen people, led by a trained group leader. For the school to benefit from a Government grant, the group had to commence before the end of June, 1978.

In 1978, a yoga class began for mothers of KHS students.

In 1978, a Melbourne Cup Luncheon was held for the mothers at KHS. Fifty-three mothers attended. There were such activities as bridge, solo and scrabble.

In 1978, KHS debating teams won all their debates.

In 1978, the Ladies Auxiliary were responsible for the provision of five honour boards to be installed in the foyer of A Block. The Boards were to be presented at the Tenth Anniversary Dinner.

In 1978, a run-a-thon raised almost $4000.00 which was devoted to supporting Stewart House and charities selected by the houses. A smaller amount was to be used to improve the school amenities e.g. seating in the playground.

In 1978, KHS was prominent (once again) in the official Education Week activities held at the end of the second term. Four Textiles & Design KHS students were chosen by a selection panel to take part in the Education Week Fashion Parade at the Sydney Town Hall. The following morning papers carried a picture of one of the female KHS students. Seven year 11 KHS Home Science students produced a display called A gourmet guide to weight control for the official opening of Education Week at the Sydney County Council. The students showed the crowds of interested onlookers how to prepare exciting and interesting food which was, at the same time, low in kilojoule value.

In 1978, the Ku-ring-gai Toastmasters’ Club offered to conduct a Youth Leadership Course. The course involved tuition in the art of public speaking and was to be held out of school hours in the school’s house, with skilled instructors. It was an eight-week course and included how to prepare an agenda, conduct meetings and make speeches. The purpose was to allow students to gain a degree of maturity when they are called to ‘say a few words’.

In 1978, KHS excursions included:

• the Kabuki Theatre
• two ABC concerts for music students
• excursions to Othello and The Taming of the Shrew
• visits to the Atomic Energy Station at Lucas Heights 
• a series of modern languages camps (held on weekends)
• year 7: an archaeological exhibition at the Great Synagogue
• year 7: attended the El Dorado Exhibition at the Art Gallery (as did year 11 art students)
• year 8 and 9 Japanese students attended the Japanese Expo Centre
• year 9 Geography to Hill End
• year 9 History to the Rocks area
• year 9 History to Macquarie Towns
• year 10 English to Macbeth
• year 10 Geography to the Hunter Valley
• year 10 History went to Port Macquarie for three days
• year 11 Biology to the Botanical Garde
• year 11 English to The Crucible and King Lear
• year 11 Home Science visited Hornsby Building Information Centre
• year 11 Science to Jindabyne
• year 11 Textiles to the Kolotex Factory
• year 12 Geology went to Bathurst and the Mining Museum

In 1978, the types of foods sold in the school canteen at KHS included:

• cordial drinks
• finger buns, walnut buns
• flavoured and plain milk
• flavoured yoghurts
• frozen yoghurts
• fruit  
• fruit juices   
• health food bars   
• Icy poles
• jelly beans
• Lifesavers
• peanuts
• plain and flavoured chips
• salads on plates     
• sandwiches and rolls                                 
• soft drinks

Meat pies, sausage rolls and soup were on sale in the winter season. A refundable deposit was placed on all aluminium soft drink cans to keep the grounds free from litter and allowed the canteen to get a small return for the cans from Comalco.

In 1978, KHS held a small Japanese festival with the co-operation of the Japanese mothers and guests. It was aimed at giving students a taste of the Japanese festive spirit, and to motivate the students to use their Japanese language, as well as sampling Japanese food and music etc. Some students wore kimonos, and six Japanese exchange students from other schools joined KHS for the afternoon. 

In the weeks leading up to the event, students made origami and cards to sell on stalls, and prepared acts for the concert held in the stage room. A tea ceremony was performed by a group of Japanese ladies who attend the ‘Tea Ceremony’ regularly at a tea-house in Epping. A young Australian guest played the ‘koto’, a traditional Japanese instrument at intervals.

Japanese mothers made various kinds of Japanese foods such as:

• yakitori (chicken on skewers)
• onigiri (rice balls)
• kushidango (rice dumplings)
• chirashizushi (vingared rice with prawns etc)
• okonomiyaki (Japanese omelette)

This was KHS first Japanese Festival.

1979:

In 1979, a year 12 KHS 3 Unit HSC English student scored the top mark of 148/150.

In 1979, KHS French language students visited North Sydney Boys’ High School, to see the rock opera La Revolution Francaise.

In 1979, year 11 KHS Japanese language students ventured into Northbridge Plaza, where they spoke Japanese to the Japanese shopkeepers in Japanese. They were also required to purchase various ingredients from the Japanese supermarket (again using only the Japanese language), and, as homework, used what they bought to prepare a Japanese meal for their families.

In 1979, as a result of the new energies policies and development of land use in Australia in the last quarter of this century, KHS Social Science staff [now part of the Human Society & Its Environments (HSIE] developed new courses for their students.

In 1979, in anticipation that class sizes in year 8 are to be such that no class need exceed thirty pupils, the creation of an additional class in year 8 was organised for the core subjects, namely English, Mathematics, Science and History or Geography.

In 1979, one of the significant items in the school’s budget concerned the introduction of colour television. The request of $3,204 covered basic equipment for recording and replaying colour television programs, and to also provide for a basic stock of colour video tapes. The first priority was to increase the number of receivers so that a receiver could be installed in a classroom in each block, serviced by a coaxial cable. The 2nd addition would be a 2nd colour video tape recorder, so that programs could be recorded and replayed at the same time, as well as enabling more than one program to be relayed at the same time.

In 1979, a Science Club operated at KHS every Tuesday after school to do interesting and fun experiments. Some activities also included:

• a trip to the airport at Mascot to look at air-traffic control
• a visit to the Meteorological and Hydro graphic Station
• an excursion to see how beer is brewed at Tooheys Brewery

In 1979, year 9 KHS Commerce students established their own company. Trading as Combined Manufacturing, they produced and marketed scouring pads under the guidance of 3M at Pymble. The students raised share capital of $213.00, elected directors and appointed staff. The venture was another of those that were promoted by ‘Young Achievers’, an American based organisation which aimed to give students a first-hand introduction to the business world. If the trend of good sales continued, the company was to pay its shareholders a handsome dividend before going into voluntary liquidation towards the end of 3rd term in 1979.

In 1979, Applied Mathematics was offered as an option course for year 11 KHS students.

In 1979, Room 30 at KHS was the venue chosen for a genuine French market. Year 7B had spent two weeks preparing food, props, price tags, and setting up stalls. Points were allocated for presentation and effort etc. The food was then bought and sold in French, and points taken off for any English used. By the end of the double session, all food was sold and the class had raised $10.53 which went to Foundation 41 to help their research. Prizes for the members of the winning stall were provided by the French and Belgian Embassies.

In 1979, KHS won all four grades of basketball.