Page 146 - J Delaney - City of Cessnock Education and Schools

153.

ELLALONG S C H 0 0 L

for 1868 show a total enrolment of forty six (46) pupils - 28 boys and
18 girls. It is interesting to note that the records show that of the
46 pupils, 39 were from Church of England families.

On 18th May 1869, the inspector visited Ellalong Public School
and reported that the school enrolment was then fifty two (52) pupils,
consisting of 27 boys and 25 girls. The inspector also recorded that
the school building was badly lit. Discipline was found to be tolerable,
that the teacher's instruction was fairly suitable but the standard of
proficiency of the pupils was unsat~sfactory.

The Council of Education purchased the site and buildings of
the old school, Lot 2, .Section 18 and Lot 1, Section 19, in 1875, from
the Bishop of Newcastle. On 23rd November 1875, William Snape, representing
the Ellalong School Board, wro:e to the Council of Education seeking £60.0.0
($120.00), to rebuild the school house. On 7th February 1876, the Council
authorised the Ellalong School Board to demolish the old school and re-
erect up to £70.0.0 ($140.00) cost. During the renovation period the
school continued functioning, utilising Samuel Cadman's shed.

The school enrol~ents in 1877, numbered thirty seven (37) pupils,
with a daily average attendance of twenty nine (29).

The Department of Public Instruction's ricords hold a report
from its then inspector, in which he describes the Ellalong School as
follows:-

"An old split slab building of the most
primitive class, with a shingled roof.
Only twelve (12) feet six (6) inches wide.
It has four (4) desks and only three (3)
windows. The ~esidence also requires
additions".

On 21st August 1878, the Council of Education decided that
a new school and residence should be built on Lot No. 2 Section No. 18.