Ex-teachers share years of experience

The association is affiliated to the National Union of Teachers, although members do not have to be membersn. Founders envisaged a social network to keep retired teachers in touch with one another.

Founder chairman Ernest Rawcliffe, 84, of Moorland Road, Langho, taught at Griffin Park School, Blackburn, before deputy and headships at Roe Lee and Bank Top primary schools in the town.

He recalls teaching former Blackburn Rovers player and "great lad" Bryan Douglas at Blakey Moor CE High School. "We're part of history now in terms of education but it is still such a good idea for elderly people who have left the profession," he said.

"Bryan was a very hard working pupil and a very nice lad. We never thought he would be so good even though he was wonderful at football."

But stories of past pupils are just one of the topics discussed by the 40 or so group members.

"The association was founded about 18 years ago with the aim of drawing on the friendly, social aspect of teaching," added Mr Rawcliffe. But to think of teaching now -- there is much greater pressure. Exams are not teaching. We used to report to parents two and three times a year, and you need tests, but the aim is to educate people for life not to pass an exam."

After so many years on the job and with a son, granddaughter, daughter-in-law, niece and sister following in his footsteps, he would still recommend the profession to young, would-be teachers.

Former secretary Joan Counsell, 66, of Ribchester Road, Salesbury, said: "The association began at the end of the 1980s when there were too many teachers in the profession.

"Teaching has changed a great deal and it is important to get new members involved. When I was in teaching there was no National Curriculum and the lesson depended on you being conscientious and good at your job."

The next meeting will be at Lammack Church hall on Wednesday at 2pm. For more information, call secretary Mary Pint on 01254 690226.