The Original Greek selected crops - Flipbook - Page 19
Chapter 2
Whetstone, North London
(1960s–1970s)
Nancy O’Connell
We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.
Proverbs 16:9
I struggled with learning and lessons throughout my entire time
at St John’s School. My reading and writing of English, along with
mathematics, was poor. In fact, all subjects were difficult for me.
I dreaded taking my school report card home to my parents.
Although I tried and I was a quiet boy in class, I totally failed. I was
bottom of the class. Last.
In 1967 I started Christ Church Secondary School, North Finchley.
I was assessed and put in the bottom stream. During the first week
of school, we were given one piece of English homework. I was in
tears all the way home. My mother asked me why I was so upset
and crying as I walked through the front door. She did not know
what to do with me. My parents were not able to help us with our
schoolwork. Eventually she suggested I go to see Mrs Warner in
Swan Lane and ask her for help. I knew Mrs Warner’s son John,
who attended the same church as me.
Mrs Warner helped me to do my homework. I needed guidance
and gentle help. She made it clear she couldn’t help me again, but
on this occasion at least I went home rejoicing and felt relieved
that the “dreaded homework” was done. However, even at that age,
I knew I had a serious problem. How would I cope next week with
homework and school? I felt anxious.
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