Former RAF airman and founding Priory School headteacher, 103, pens memoir of WWII experiences
By Jill Dando News
The founding headteacher of Priory Community School Academy in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset has released a new book about his experience in the Second World War.
Arthur Spencer started as the first Headteacher in 1975 at Priory.
The former World War Two bomber navigator on the famous Lancaster Bombers has had his memoir published called: "A Pathfinder in the Peenemünde Raid: 50 Operations over Nazi Occupied Territory.”
It provides a gripping first-hand account of his remarkable service during World War II.
Seven years ago, Priory’s £2.5 million state-of-the-art Spencer Science Centre - which is one of Britain's best science facilities for students - was named after Arthur.
At the tender age of 19, Spencer volunteered for the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1940, shortly after completing his school examinations.
His heroic journey began with training as a navigator in Canada and Florida, followed by further preparation in the UK.
In December 1942, Spencer joined the 97 Squadron, flying Lancaster bombers.
Months later, his crew was reassigned to the elite Pathfinder Force, renowned for their daring missions.
Among their operations were the shuttle-service attack on Friedrichshafen and the offensive against the infamous Peenemünde, where the Nazis developed their V-2 rockets.
After completing two tours of duty, Spencer's wartime exploits continued in the Mediterranean theatre, where he flew five additional operations in support of the Yugoslav resistance, utilizing Halifax and Wellington aircraft.
His service culminated in his return to the UK in December 1944, where he served Transport Command and was seconded to BOAC.
Born in Salisbury in February 1921 and later relocating to Southampton, Spencer's life took a remarkable turn after the war.
Driven by his passion for the English language and literature, he embarked on a career in education.
Before his appointment as the first head of Priory School in Weston-super-Mare in 1976, Spencer spent many years as the deputy head at Castle School in Thornbury.
As Priory Head, Jill Dando - then a reporter at the local Weston Mercury - would pop to see him for a regular story update about the school. In 2018, Priory set up its own Jill Dando News Centre where students become real life ‘Jill Dando Journalists’ in her memory.
Spencer's courage and dedication echo across the decades – from facing wartime dangers in his youth to nurturing the young minds of Weston-super-Mare as a dedicated educator.
His memoir, "A Pathfinder in the Peenemünde Raid: 50 Operations over Nazi Occupied Territory," released this month promises to be a captivating read.
For more stories from Jill Dando News click here
