The History of Northwood Primary School (1855 - 2005)
 The story of Northwood School is vibrantly told through the oral story telling tradition that grandparents and great grandparents pass on through their children. We occassionally hear from old boys and girls across the world who usually remember Skipper Sanders, a headmaster renowned for his expertise with the cane! Most have fond memories however, and it was a combination of fact and fiction that we used to make our dramatic celebration of the school’s 150 years come to life last term at Medina Theatre.
One of our neighbours, now in his seventies, tells the tale of his first day at Northwood Primary School. He ran happily into the playground and accidentally bumped into a new girl who fell over. He was severely punished as an example to others! Another infamous tale is of the days when willow was grown specifically for the purpose of providing a memorable lesson to miscreants. If the head felt that the cane was not ‘supple’ enough, the child would be sent back to select a harsher stick.
The school still has the plaque which is inscribed with the words
Northwood School, dedicated to Christ’s little ones of this parish by the Ward Sisters 1855
The Ward sisters, [after whom Ward Avenue is named, and who gave Northwood House to the community] were exemplorary benefactors for Cowes, and inaugurated the school just one year after Whippingham was opened. Children had to pay to come to school at first, although all schooling was free from the mid 1880s. If children didn’t come to school, teachers weren’t paid.
One pupil who came to school just after the WW2 tells of how he had to walk home to Marks Corner for lunch and then back for afternoon lessons. This story amazes the children who walk once a year to Parkhurst Forest and have to be revived with ice lollies on their return!
 Until 1990, there was an outside toilet and a separate hall and extension built in 1950 Over the last 15 years, we have been able to rebuild 50% of the school and double our roll. 16 years ago we had 4 ½ teachers and 2 part time support staff. Now we employ 40 people, many of whom live in our community.
Vicki Johnson (Headteacher)
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