28/07/2026
Time stands still, but memories last a lifetime.
Today, we had the absolute privilege of catching up with Old St Neotian, Johnny Miller, who attended St Neots from 1948 to 1955. Listening to him look back on his school days with a beaming smile reminded us exactly why this place is so special.
Back then, the school was a close-knit family of just 50 boys, with a dozen in each class. Johnny warmly remembered calling the school ‘St Neets’—the affectionate nickname used by the boys. His recollections took us on a beautiful journey through time, starting with flag raising and writing sweet (and very amusing) letters home to Mum after Saturday chapel.
He shared stories of thrilling scout adventures in the top-tier Pheasants Division, playing intense wide games of manhunt, and proud days of 'Bob-a-jobbing'. He still vividly remembers the pride of wearing his cricket cap and scout neckerchief during fierce sporting rivalries with Eagle House and Marlborough.
There were so many quirky traditions and classic outings, from French plays and cycling to Bramshill, to the highly anticipated annual trip to the biscuit factory. He even told us about the legendary ‘Emlyn Trophy’—a dried, varnished Brussels sprout stalk from a Jersey trip that was remarkably still being used in the 1980s!
There were plenty of laughs, too, especially regarding the old outdoor swimming pool in the forest. Johnny described it as a rather cold and unforgettable experience, noting just how happy the pupils today would be with our modern pool.
From debating the quirks of old headmasters to the pure joy on his face as he recounted heading off to Bradfield, Johnny reminded us that the spirit of St Neots never truly leaves you. Once a St Neotian, always a St Neotian.
Thank you, Johnny, for bringing history alive for us today.
