E.P.S. AND SCHOOLS

Evening Post, Volume CXXXI, Issue 72, 26 March 1941, Page 6

E.P.S. AND SCHOOLS

THE SAFETY OF CHILDREN

How schools and colleges may be affected under the Emergency Precautions Scheme was briefly outlined in a circular from the Education Department which was considered by the Wellington Colleges Board of Governors at its meeting yesterday. The circular pointed out that effective measures for the protection of school children could best be devised as an integral part of the general scheme in each Locality.

It was suggested that the Protection of School Children Committee, after consultation with the E.I*.S. and local Army authorities, would advise which schools in or near a vulnerable area required special protective measures or equipment. Although it was not anticipated that there would be any need to dig trenches in many cases, plans of suitable types of shelter trenches were being prepared.

The Department stated that it did not favour the evacuation of school children apart from any general evacuation, and, recommended drills and rehearsals for speedy exits from buildings, with first-aid classes for senior pupils and the formation of fire-fighting squads. Teachers were advised to enrol under the E.P.S., but it was pointed out that they should not vacate their posts until the children under their charge were safe.

The matter was left in the hands of a small committee, which will confer with the heads of the colleges and with the authorities.