Memories from my first few years at school are few and far between. There are small details I’ll never forget, however. The feeling of those thick, itchy, woolen tights will never leave my legs. The limited selection of un-chewed HB pencils, picking fluff off duffle coats, the elation at being allowed on to the field at lunchtime, stringy green beans and lumpy custard, miscellaneous meat, break-time milk, hymns, desk trays.
The list goes on. Fleeting memories of wonderful feelings like getting a brand new exercise book and writing your name on the front in the best possible hand-writing (inevitably, by trying, I always messed it up)
I remember one pair of shoes in primary school. They were from The Golden Boot. Obviously. Probably when the shop looked more like this…
They were black leather, t-bar, with a cut out in the centre front, on the loop. They came with a tiny sheet of tiny, shiny stickers. These stickers could be placed underneath the cutout creating ‘a whole new look’. I remember at least five or six other girls in my class having the same ones and we would compare sticker choices on a daily basis. Star, heart or crown? Life’s decisions have changed somewhat since then.
The beginning of September was nearing, and a trip to town was imminent. Smith’s for colouring pencils. Long gone are the days of ‘colouring in’ being considered work. BHS for socks and the boys’ shirts. Then off to Gabriel’s Hill for shoes. ‘Can I wear them now?’ I’d ask. ‘You’ll ruin them’ was the answer.
The evening before the first day of a new term, I’d set out my uniform. I can still see my new shoes sat patiently by my bedside table. I’d put my new pencils in my pencil case, and organize my school bag (not that it ever stayed like that for long), and I’d lie in bed, eagerly anticipating the following day. The anticipation didn’t last long either once I realised I had to do it every day for the next 12 years…
During this Back To School period we’re all reflecting on our school days. It’s fascinating hearing different stories from the various generations of people who work here. Plus, the photos are hilarious.
Check out our ‘Meet the Team’ page and take a peek. Find out a little more about the lovely people who’ll be helping you this summer, and have a think about your own school memories, as there’s a prize to be won!
As part of the Back To School campaign, we’re running a Facebook competition. We’ve shared some of our stories, and often reluctantly, shared some embarrassing photos. So now it’s your turn. Share a photo with us, along with a short school memory. The lucky winner, who will be chosen at random, wins a £500 shopping spree at The Golden Boot. Go go go! We’ve had some great pictures shared already…
Luckily, we’ve all changed considerably since these photos were taken, and the shop has evolved with us. Take a look at the photos below. If you see anyone you recognise, be sure to let us know.
Words: Helen Barton
