An Edenvale resident recently shared the memories of his excitement of being part of the first matric class at Edenvale High School 50 years ago.
Mr Clive Shepherd said the first matriculants of Edenvale High School in 1965 wrote their final exams in prefab classes in Hurlyvale and never had the opportunity of seeing the new school, as it was still under construction.
“I can proudly state that I was one of the first matric pupils in the new Edenvale High School building in June 1967.
“I was able to write my exams in the new school hall,” said Mr Shepherd.
His friend, Mr Darryl Wright, was one of the school’s first matric pupils although Darryl did not complete his schooling at the new school building.
“We were still situated in Hurlyvale when I started high school. The school was relatively new and had no traditions.
“It was founded in 1962, with only standard 6 and standard 7 classes. I arrived in 1963 in standard 6.
“By 1965, the school had the full compliment from standard 6 up to matric,” said Mr Shepherd.
He said Edenvale High School was the only English speaking state high school at the time.
Mr Shepherd said many of the pupils’ parents were pilots and as a result, had a strong influence on some of the pupils.
“Darryl and I were in the Air Force together for 10 years. He still flies as a reservist and I have recently retired,” he said.
