CD Rom listening copy

Tracks 1 - 14

This is a recorded interview between Banner Theatre and Ken Wood, Head Caretaker of Alumwell Comprehensive School and Community Centre, Walsall and NUPE member. Charles Parker, Chris Rogers and Dave Rogers represent Banner.

Tracks 1 - 8 consist of a description of Ken's personal history and employment development. Details are provided of growing up in Sillett, Yorkshire. Employment in textile mills and collieries are given, and also his move into school caretaking. War service in the Royal Air Force is mentioned. Descriptions are provided of carol singing in Yorkshire and nightwatchmen's duties (Track 4), patronage in church and local politics (Track 5) and observations are made about union officials at Woolley Colliery, including Arthur Scargill (Track 6).

A description is given of the opening of Alumwell School and its pioneering provision of community facilities (Track 14). The need for increased community use of schools is considered (Tracks 1 & 13 - 14). The nature of caretaking duties is discussed, and how these have altered over time (8 - 10). A lack of training for caretakers is identified (Track 9) and earnings, outgoings and terms and conditions are considered (Tracks 2 & 11 - 13). Reference is made to the bonus scheme recommended for school workers by Sir Athelstan Jack Scamp (Tracks 12 -13).

Total: 00:44:55 minutes

Dubber's reference number: PLA1of2 KF534B0212880