Australian Independent Bookseller

All the best books from your local independent bookseller

Bush School

Bush School

by Peter O'Brien

A charming story of a time long-gone and the struggles of a young man with his first teaching assignment in a village at the back of beyond.

Format
Paperback
Category
Non-Fiction
Publisher
Allen & Unwin
Publish Date
August 2020

In 1960, newly minted teacher Peter O'Brien started work as the only teacher at a bush school in Weabonga, two days' travel by train and mail car from Armidale. Peter was only 20 years old and had never lived away from his home in Sydney. He had had some teaching experience, but nothing to prepare him for the monumental challenge of being solely responsible for the education of 18 students, ranging in age from 5 to 15 years old. With few lesson plans, scant teaching materials, a wide range of curious minds and ages to prepare for, Peter was daunted by the enormity of the task ahead. Because of Weabonga's remoteness, the students were already at a disadvantage, but they were keen and receptive and had been blessed with an enthusiastic and committed teacher. Indeed it was the children and their thirst for learning who kept Peter afloat during the early days of shockingly inadequate living conditions, a deficient diet and the terrible loneliness he felt being isolated so far from family, friends and his burgeoning romance.

Other titles you should consider ...

Broken Girl

Bradley Trevor Greive

Black Duck

Bruce Pascoe

Mothering Heights

Rachael Mogan McIntosh

4 Weeks to Better Sleep

Dr Michael Mosley

Not all products are available in all stores.