A VETERAN HEADMASTER

Evening Post, Volume LXXXVI, Issue 147, 18 December 1913, Page 8

A VETERAN HEADMASTER

♦ ] PRESENTATION TO MR. WATSON. ' From to-day Mr. Clement Watson retires from the active service of the Wellington Education Board. It is thirty-eight years ago since he received his first appointment under the board, and from then on his advance was rapid. Thirty-three years ago Mr. Watson was appointed headmaster of the Te Aro School, a position he has held continuously ever since. He has been a favourite among teachers and scholars alike,' and many in Wellington to-day remember him for kindnesses shown during their days at school. He has seen the school grow— gradually at first, and then rapidly — and all the time he has worked earnestly for the general betterment of the children placed under his care. He has won the hearts of all, and those who know him intimately speak highly of his character as a, gentleman to whom the deepest respects are .due. At the breaking up ceremony in connection with the school ta-day, Mr. Watson was presented with &• travelling rug and a. case of pipes by the teachers. Mr. Keen, first assistant, made the presentation, and Miss Bright (who has' taught at the school for a long time) and Mr. W. J. Lankshear (chairman of the School Committee) also spoke. Mr. Lankshear spoke very highly of Mr. Watson's work and personality. "Remember," he said, "I speak as one who knows, for my connection with the committee now extends over twenty years. I have been impressed with his unfailing courtesy- and energy at all times." The teachers spoke very highly of Mr. Watson as a man, and mentioned the valuable assistance he was always prepared to give young teachers. Cheers were given for the retiring headmaster at the conclusion of the ceremony.