Zina Johnson recalled her fond memories of what the school was like in the 1930s when she was a pupil there, writes Kinga Plata

Zina Johnson returns to Bruce Grove Primary School

A 99-year old pensioner’s dream came true after she visited her former primary school in Bruce Grove – nine decades on from when she was a pupil there.

Zina Johnson, who turned 99 last Monday, visited Bruce Grove Primary School to rekindle her memories of being a pupil there in the 1930s.

Zina had a look around, talked to current pupils, and reflected on the changes that have happened since she was one of the school’s students herself.

Tuesday’s visit was organised by Zina’s granddaughter, Kimberley Morrison, with the help of Tottenham MP David Lammy.

Kimberley explained how her grandmother dreamed of visiting the school and what a treasure her many memories have been for over 90 years. She said: “Zina started at the school in 1930.

“She lived on St Louis Road before being bombed out during the war and evacuated. She has many wonderful stories of life in the 1930s/40s in Tottenham both before, during and after the war.”

Zina had a chance to talk to the current students and answer their questions, took photographs with pupils and the headteacher, Janice George, and was even presented with a goody bag that included Bruce Grove merchandise and a school jumper.

After the visit, Zina said: “I have to say not much has changed about the building except the toilets were outside in my day and we had a stove in the middle of the classroom to keep us warm.

“We all sat on wooden benches and we didn’t get school dinners. I remember the boys school downstairs and our girls school upstairs – we were never allowed to mix in those days.”

Zina also recollected about some of the old school staff members and expressed her gratitude to those who made her visit possible.

”I remember Miss Moss and the caretaker Mr Gibson. I had such a wonderful time. Thankyou for everyone in helping to organise the day and thank you to Bruce Grove School and Janice for the lovely tour.”

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