TRAINING OF CADETS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29672, 16 November 1961, Page 12

TRAINING OF CADETS

Board Members In Favour “Although one can ayznpatbtaa with the Quakers on tbia, 1 do not think cadet training really has the sign!flcance they attribute to it,” Mid the chairman ot the board of governors of the Riccarton High School (Profeoaor H. R. Gray) at a meeting of the board. A letter from the Christchurch meeting of the Society of Friends asking the board to abolish cadet training at the school was read, at the meeting. It said that Quakers were opposed to war and considered cadet training helped to prepare young persons for participation in war. AU members of the board spoke in favour of continuing cadet training at the school. "It is only physical education training with a military flavour and of more benefit than anything else,” said Mr M. C. Butler. “I would move that the letter be received,” said Mr A. S. Murray. Mr A. J. Lazarus said that cadet training brought out any qualities of leadership a boy might have. “I have heard or seen nothing which might lead me to think that it was anything but a good thing ” said Mr E. J. Bradshaw. “I do not regard it as military training end would vote for its continuance,” said Professor S. R. Siemon. The headmaster (Mr A. J Gainaford) said that where there was a conscientious objector at the school he was excused military cadet, training. "The preparation for war is less emphasised than these people might suggest." he said. Mr Gainsford agreed with Mr Butler, who had said that a scheme of emergency training instead of cadet training was being introduced. He said that this included the correct use of firearms, training in first aid and resuscitation, safety in the mountains. How to survive under bushed conditions, and also drill and duties, which gave an ease of movement not only physically but mentally. “I would like to see girl? do some of it, too,” he said. The board received the letter and will tell the Quakers that it has decided to take no action.