Cheadle Hulme School recently acquired a significant piece of its illustrious history: the military medals of Thomas Thomson Rankin Lockhart. The longest-serving Headmaster to date, with a remarkable 32-year tenure (1922-1954), Lockhart fundamentally shaped the school. His medals, the OBE (Civil), Military Cross, 1914-15 Trio, and the Italian Order of the Crown, offer a tangible link to a man who commanded immense admiration and respect, both on the battlefield and within the walls of CHS.
When Lockhart took the helm in 1922, he was a mere 32 years old, yet already possessed an impressive academic foundation with an M.A. and B.Sc. from Edinburgh University. His pre-CHS life, however, was marked by the First World War. Mobilised in 1915, Lockhart initially served as a sapper, an engineer responsible for vital tasks like building bridges, digging trenches, and tunnelling. From 1916, he served with the Royal Engineers, rapidly rising through the ranks from sergeant to lieutenant and eventually Captain.
Following a wounding in November 1916, Lockhart was posted to ‘O’ Special Company, where he commanded a section of Livens Projectors. These formidable mortars launched phosgene gas and flaming oil canisters onto enemy lines. His gallantry and devotion to duty in this highly specialised and dangerous role earned him the Military Cross, in 1917. The citation notes his “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty [and showing] initiative in the face of great difficulties and under heavy fire.” He was also mentioned in Despatches for his distinguished service.
Promoted to Captain in 1918, Lockhart’s military contributions extended beyond the front lines. He served in Italy, primarily training troops on the use of these projectors, and was attached as a scientific instructor to both American and Italian armies. There, his contributions were recognised with the prestigious Chevalier of the Italian Order of the Crown, in 1923. These awards speak volumes about his intellect, bravery, and significant contributions to the Allied war effort.
Following the war, Lockhart returned to his academic pursuits and became a teacher. He arrived in Cheadle Hulme in 1922, at just 32 years old, with his wife and son, George, both of whom are fondly remembered by pupils of the time. Mrs. Lockhart, a “charming Scottish lady,” continued the tradition of hosting teas for Foundationers in Broomefield. George, despite his learning disabilities, actively participated in school life, with his “Bring and Buy” initiative raising £21 for the scouts in 1952.
Lockhart himself was known as a strict disciplinarian, almost “puritanical,” yet he commanded genuine respect from pupils and staff alike. His leadership also earned the trust of the Board of Governors; the practice of “midnight raids” to check on school affairs, common before his arrival, ceased entirely under his watch. While his tenure faced significant financial pressures and societal changes, Lockhart successfully navigated these challenges, fundamentally transforming Cheadle Hulme School during his tenure. It was for this work that Lockhart was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), in 1954, shortly after his retirement. This civil honour underscores the profound impact he had on the institution.
T. T. R. Lockhart died in 1968. The acquisition of his military medals provides a tangible link to the extraordinary life and achievements of a man whose legacy of discipline, compassion, and unwavering commitment continues to resonate deeply within our School’s rich history.
