School Board Split Over Housie

Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31421, 14 July 1967, Page 10

School Board Split Over Housie

The Burnside High School board of governors split almost evenly last evening about permission for its assembly hall to be used by a neighbouring school for housie. Approval was given, subject to the consent of the Internal Affairs Department.

The Kendal Primary School asked whether the game would be allowed at its mannequin parade and social evening in the Burnside High School hall if a permit were obtained.

The headmaster (Mr C. Cross) said he would prefer not to allow the game. The board had set certain standards.

Mr A. F. Foley said a line had to be drawn. Housie also usually meant smoking, which the board did not favour in the hall.

Housie under permit was now perfectly legal, and the school need not object, said Mr J. S. Whiten. Mrs M. E. Allen saw no objection. “We have to take a broad view,” said Mr E. C. Robinson. “Permits are granted by a Government agency and this is a Government school.” Mrs H. J. Gilbertson said the function was to raise funds, and the game would help.

Mrs D. Grant said the letter indicated that the Kendal School had some doubts whether the board would approve, so it would not be unduly disappointed. The Burnside High School was trying to set standards. Mr C. D. Bishop said there was smoking at Burnside socials. If the board had to draw a line, it could do it beyond the local schools. The acting-chairman (Pro-

fessor A. S. Carrington) said he would be largely influenced by the wish of the headmaster.