NO INTEREST SHOWN

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31000, 4 March 1966, Page 14

NO INTEREST SHOWN

Science Gear Pool

The Burnside High School’s: idea of a central pool of science equipment, par-1 ticularly for sixth forms which require expensive apparatus for limited periods, does not appeal to the Christchurch Boys’ High School board. The headmaster (Mr C. F. S. Caldwell) said it was a good idea in theory but difficult in practice. He knew of such a centre in Scotland but it had technicians to make, maintain, and distribute the equipment. The Education Department would have to take initiative in the matter, probably equip the centre, and also staff it. Mr Caldwell said equipment might have a short life from frequent use and maintenance would be a problem. He indicated that his school would have little, if any, call on such equipment.

No board member expressed support for the scheme. Cashmere View

The Cashmere High School board on Wednesday also had reservations about the pooling of science equipment. The headmaster (Mr T. H. McCombs) said that such a scheme could be worked but its cost would be too high. Equipment would have to be maintained by technicians, clerical work would be involved, and a store would be needed. The scheme could cost up to £3OOO a year. “We borrow equipment from other schools and lend some to others,” said Mr McCombs. Dr. T. J. Seed suggested that the Education Department might store and maintain equipment and Dr. R. M. Allison said surplus gear might be obtained from Government departments. The Education Department has granted £747 for gymnasium equipment. The new gymnasium, although unfinished, will be open for inspection at a tenth anniversary garden party on March 19 and officially opened, if possible by the Minister of Education, after Easter. It was reported that since the school opened its free textbook grants totalled £16.852 and £17,070 had been spent. It was decided to seek a grant for the difference of £2lB and a further £l9B for books damaged by stormwater in a basement during the holidays.