SCHOOLS' MANAGEMENT

Hawera Star, Volume LIV, 1 May 1934, Page 6

SCHOOLS' MANAGEMENT

Meetings of Householders NEW COMMITTEES APPOINTED Service For Two Years SOUTH. TARANAKI; ELEOTTONS Annual meetings of householders were held throughout the Taranaki Education Board’s area last night to. appoint school committees for the ensuing term, which will he for two years instead of one as formerly. r The attendances generally in South Taranaki were somewhat disappointing, although in some: country centres there was a marked improvement on previous yearn. * 'principal discussion centred about the school admission age question, and in several instances strong protest* were made.

HAWERA MAIN SCHOOL raising of admission age. MEETING'S STRONG PROTEST. The annual meeting of householders in. connection with the election or a committee of the Hawera Main School, was held in the school last evening, and was but poorly attended, there being; only twelve householders present. Despite the. sparse attendance, considerable interest was shown. Dr \V. M. Thomson presided. ' The report of the headmaster (Mr J W Thomas) stated .inter alia, tnat the work of the school during the yearhad been most pleasing to the scan, and. that parents recognised the value of education facilities provided by the Technical High School was evidenced bv the fact that 95 per cent of those scholars who had passed out or the school, had continued their studies at the local high school. _ In the field of sport, tne report continued, the scholars of the school had comported themselves admirably, and the team spirit was a pleasing feature and a dommating factor in the sucoess attained. ... „ , , The musical activities of the school had' again been a feature of the year and the thanks of parents were due to Messrs Fox and Maunder and -Miss Joyce Dix for their untiring effort® in this connection. , . , In December last the school gala day was again held and had proved most successful, resulting in the augmenting of the committee’s funds yy approximately £45. MAINTENANCE OF GROUNDS. The maintenance of the grounds had always been a great care to the committee and, had it not been for the use made of unemployed, labour, these - must have suffered during the year. An urgent matter was the asphalting of the front portion of the main school grounds, where the present surface was breaking up badly and, in some places, was dangerous to children playing about. It had been found necessary during the year to replace the piano, which had done service for over 30 years. Ninety odd desks had also been replaced by the board, whose co-operation in that matter was greatly appreciated. The most necessary...item in school equipment was a good library and this matter would require the most earnest consideration of the incoming comnut"Bible instruction was carried out for half an l>onr each Friday morning by mini suers of the district, and it was pleasing to note that about 99 per cent, of the children attended. With regard to attendance, the report .stated that a substantial decrease was -still being shown. In Deoember 1931 the roll number was 638, in December 1932 585, last December. 564, while tty© present roll number was 522. This” decline has a serious effect on the staffing and since December. 1931, the school had lost two assistants with’ the prospective lowering of grade and consequent loss of two further teachers if the attendance fell much lower. The fall in attendance was due largely to the exclusion of the five-year-old '.children, but other factors were the declinincr birth rate and the departure of families from the district. • During the year the school had lost the services of three teachers—Miss Terry, who had been in charge of the infant school for the past seven years. Miss Oorlett and Miss Hodder. the lat_ ter teacher having been, in charge of the special class, which was closed; owing to the decline m attendance. RATIONING OF TEACHERS. The beginning of ilie year had marked the end of the rationing scheme whereby certain teachers were given four months’ work and were idle for the remainder of the year. That system had nothing to recommend it, in that teachers lost touch with the school; -and teaching methods, while classes in charge of such teachers were taught -by three different teachers in eaph school year.. The present system was much better, although the pay for the work was a mere pittance, being only £6O per year, which amount was subject to wages and unemployment taxes and superannuation deductions. Some of these teachers had had four qr five years’ service and, despite the conditions prevailing, were among the most enthusiastic and conscientious; on the staff. The headmaster and staff, concluded the report, had every reason to thank the committee and helpers for the many kindnesses and co-operation shown during the past year. The smooth working of the external arrangements was in a great measure due to their efforts. The treasurer (Mr J. D. Tait) presented the financial statement, which showed that receipts in the form of capitation allowance totalled £192, while th,e expenditure amounted to £270, leaving an amount of £7B for -the committee ,to find ■chniirig the year. Of the expenditure, cleaning and . sanitary services absorbed £145, fuel and lighting £3B, repairs and mainten anoe £l6. a. total of .£199 or £7 more than the amount received in capitation, while sundry expenses including tele phone, insurance premiums, replacement of piano etc. accounted for a further £7l. The year finished with a small credit balance of £B, but against this must be taken sundry current accounts due at the end of tbe year. The chairman. (Dr W. AVI. Thomson) in addressing the meeting supplemented the headmaster’s report which, he said, covered the around.so thoroughly that little was left for him to add. ADMISSION AGE QUESTION In moving the adoption of the renort and ha lance-sheet Dr Thomson deprecated the raising of the .school ago

.and pointed out that, although servants of the department had. stated that the effect of this, would not oc -felt after the first year, such was not the case, and the retardation or the children in their education was a sen ous matter. After enlarging upon the school activities already covered in the report the chairman expressed the thanks of the committee* to the* headmaster and staff- for their wonderful' work during the year and to the members of his committee all of whom had worked hard in the interests and welfare of the school. , _ r „ The motion was seconded by Mr F 0. Veale and carried unanimously. Mr Veale then moved and Mr B Baker seconded; “That this meeting of householders expresses its disapproval o.f the action of the Minister of Education in rasing the school age to six years and requests the Govern ment to restore the age of entry to five years.” , r , Speaking to the report, Mr Veale stated that the effect of the raising of the age of entry could have nothing but a disastrous effect upon the child. The most trying age of the child n. his own experience was from 44 to 5J years of age, and ft was at this age that the young mind required some extra interests to keep it occupied. To deprive the child of this extra occupation at the most impressionable age was deleterious to its progress throughout life, and the damage done could not be measured in pounds, shillings and pence. He felt very strongly on the matter, and urged that it should be taken up seriously by all who had the interest of the children and education generally at heart. The resolution was carried unanimously and; it was arranged that the matter should be brought before the board and the Government. Mr Milne moved; “That this meeting protests to the Taranaki Education Board against the inadequate publicity given to meetings of householders and suggests that the meeting be advertised at a period of, say, three clays before the date of the meeting.” ; This was seconded by Mr R. O. Veale and carried unanimously. The chairman announced tljat there being only nine nominations for the on the committee the following were declared elected: Messrs H. Ackroyd. H. Baker, H. Collier, L. J. Hall, G. C. Hands, A. Jackson, J D> Tait, Dr W. M. Thomson and E. J. Yearbury. At a subsequent meeting Dr Thomson was re-elected chairman, E. J. Yearbury deputy-chairman, H. Collier secretary and J. D. Tait treasurer.

TURUTURU SCHOOL LEVEfLLING~OtF GROUNDS PONY BANNER, RETAINED The annual meeting of householders of the Turuturu School district drew a representative attendance to the school last evening. The chairman of the committee, Mr F. G. Hancock, presided. In presenting the seventh annual report, the chairman stated that the committee had met once a month during the year to give attention to matters in connection with the school. In Deoember last Mr Mason, "the headmaster, retired on superannuation and was fareweiled by the pupils and householders of the district. Mr Gilligan was appointed as the new headmaster. A senes of euchre socials w;as held last winter. Socially they were a great success, but as so many similar functions were 'being held in the town and district the nett profits were not so good as, in former years. The school buildings and grounds were in perfect order. Half of the playing area had been ’ ploughed and a crop was taken from it and the ground levelled and resown in grass. Thanks were due to the headmaster and his assistants for the good work they had carried out during the year. Arrangements were made for the holding of the annual picnic, but the weather was unsuitable for an outdoor assembly and the picnic was held in the school. The school was again successful in winning the Pony Banner at the Egmont A. and P. Shoiv and thanks were due to Mr Summers in that connection. In conclusion the chairman tendered thanks to his fellow committee for their cooperation and also the householders, who had always been ready to help in the interests of the school.

The balance-sheet showed! a credit of £1 9s 9d. The report and balance-sheet were adopted after a short discussion. From thirteen nominations the following were elected to the committee: Messrs F. G. Hancock, E. W. Eden, J. G. Lippingwell, O. H. Bowman, and R. Meharry (re-elected), and H. V. Warn and A. H. Kearns.

A vote of thanks in appreciation of their services in levelling work in the schoolgrounds was accorded Messrs Ward, Jones, Stewart and Eden. The question of responsibility for maintaining the courts used by the Turuturu Tennis Club was discussed and a, motion was recorded recommending the committee to make further investigation and take such action as might he deemed 1 necessary. Votes of thanks were accorded the chairman (Mr Hancock) and secretary (Mr Eden) and other members of the committee in appreciation 'of their services during the year. Speaking on behalf of the Turuturu Women’s Institute the president, Mrs W. H. James, asked concerning the possibility of co-operation by the school committee if a movement were launched with the object of erecting a public hall at Turuturu. A free discussion followed, it being intimated that the need for a public hall was recognised. The questions of a site and finance were ventilated and it was finally concluded that the matter was one for consideration by a public meeting. At an ensuing meeting of the committee Messrs Lippingwell and Eden were elected as chairman and secretary respectively.

TAWHITI SCHOOL INCREASED ROLL NUMBER,. YEAR, OF ACHIEVEMENT. About 25 householders were present at the annual meeting at Tawhiti last night, Mr H. Thrush, chairman of the committee, presiding. The report recorded a successful year, with, a roll number of 188 at the beginning of the period and 192 at the end, showing an average attendance of 175.31. The inspector’s reports had on all occasions been of a highly satisfactory nature, reflecting credit on the headmaster and staff. Twelve pupils gained proficiency and four competency. During the year the grounds were well tended, by the committee for that purpose, most of the work being carried out under the authority of the Unemployment Board. The sports record showed a commendable standard of achievement, all teams acquitting themselves very creditably, and many pupils qualified for swimming certificates issued by the New Zealand Swimming Association. Keen interest was displayed in the calf-rearing competitions. .but the earlier judging rather militated against the condition of the calves at time of judging.

A breaking-up ceremony was held at the school near the. end of the year, when the work of the pupils was displayed and many visitors wear© present and were entertained at afternoon tea, the trophies won by pupil® being presented. The accounts showed a credit balance of £l2 11s Id, the total expenditure including cleaning £4B 6s 4d, repairs, £56. 16s 6d, fuel and light £9 10s 3d, books and stationery £7 Is 2d, sundries £7 12s.

ADMISSION AGE. Some discussion ensued on the question of the age of school entry for children, members being strongly, of the opinion that it was advisable to lower the age to five years. Mr \V. McDonald said that the teachers were the best judges, and they were strongly in favour of the change to five years. Mr JSsLzlett and ZVtr Barltrop also supported the suggestion, both agreeing that it would help to give employment to the teachers who were now rationed.

It was resolved strongly to, recommend the School Committees’ Association to, .press firmly for the change. There were 11 nominations for the seven vacancies on the committee and the following were elected after a ballot had been held: Messrs H. Thrush, G. Ci’iiiclvshank, L. Barltrop, F. Castle, L. Waldron, J. Smith and D. Riley. On the motion of Mr McDonald a hearty vote of thanks and appreciation was accorded the headmaster (Mr N. H. Murray) and staff. He said that Tawhiti had always been very fortunate in its headmasters and teachers.

Appreciation was also expressed with the work of the secretary (Mr Barltrop), the retiring member (Mr C. Ooad) and of the grounds committee (Messrs Thrush and Castle). Brief acknowledgment was made by Mr Coad and Mr Thrush, the latter stating that the committee had mapped out a plan of campaign for the coming two years. Disapproval was expressed with the scant publicity given by the Education Board in regard to the notice of annual meetings, and regret was also expressed that the annual South Taranaki sports were not held a<s usual. Eulogistic reference was made to the service given by Mr G. Dick, who had been chairman for several years. Mr Thrush said that the committee had met Mr Dick and made him a presentation, expressing the appreciation of the members and householders of services to the school and voicing sincere regret at hie departure from the district. At the first meeting of the new committee Mr H. Thrush was re-elect-ed chairman and Mr U. Barltrop secretary.

MANAIA SCHOOL DENTAL CLINIC WORK. continuous SERVICE urged. At the Manaia meeting of householders of the school district Mr T. A. Bridge presided over a very fail’ attendance. The chairman reported that the committee meetings had been well attended each month and members worked harmoniously together. He complimented the staff ‘on the able manner in which they carried out their respective duties, Mr Browning, the headmaster, Mr Sherson. in charge of the secondary department, Mr Garner, Miss Chilicott and Miss York. The grounds were all in good order. The cental olinio was open for two years last season and over 400 pupils were treated. Nurse Kellow had done excellent work. In conclusion the chairman thanked the committee and the school .staff for their -assistance during his. term of office The school year of the High School opened with a roll of 41, and the average attendance for the year w’as 36.04, stated the report of the headmaster (Mr J. Browning). The yearproved a very satisfactory one, and there were no changes in the personnel of the staff. The achievements were as follows;—Academic: Free places, 22; senior free places, 19; higher leaving certificates, 1. Shorthand examinations : Maire Mitchell, elementary and full theory; Bernard Mellor, full theory certificate and certificate for 70 words per minute; Avis Cleaver, elementary certificate. June 3 tournament: Secondary seven-a-side football, second senior basketball. High School competition, Opuhake-Manaia: HerIxirt Smith Prize Cup won by Manaia for 'vear 1934. Swimming certificates: 880’ yards, four; 220 yards, five. The secondary department is definitely committed to supplying the girls and boys with a practical vocational course, implying scientific and commercial training admirably suited to the district’s needs. The courses, ;too, embraced these subjects that rendered them as sufficiently cultural as vocational, due provision being mad© for a pur© academic training. One of the chief features of the training was the "instruction in farm forestry development, the children thus being kept cognisant of the progress of our primary industries. Again, the secondary pupils received a training in civic ideals, this being a conservation of the moral principles in eluded in the primary course. Great value must also be attached to the training received in the manual training departments, where woodwork and cookery supplied a very definite want. The interest shown by the pupils in their manual operations was a guarantee o? the value of the work, both morally and mentally. Too much could not be said for the enthusiasm of the teachers of both the manual and secondary departments, of their selfsacrificing interest and fine personal example.

PRIMARY DEPARTMENT. The year began with a roll of 222 and concluded with 237. The average for the year was 218.6. The achievements of this department were as follows : Proficiency certificates, 19; competency, three. Sports: June 3 tournament, won primary basketball; inter-school football, runners-up; interschool cricket, runners-up. Successes at show: Won James and Gillman Shield; won sum of £8 10s in prize money. Farm entries: Galf competition, 21 entries (Nieholls Cup was won by Nancy Barlow); garden entries, 12; root crops, 11. Swimming: Certificates for 50, 220, and 880 yards, 22 were awarded. The school possessed an orchestra receiving weekly tuition from Mr Bonetti. The orchestra, a great asset, was now composed of both primary and secondary pupils, who when occasion demanded contributed both pleasure and practical assistance to the school. Mr Bonetti, an inspiring and untiring master, had won the confidence of all the pupils. The staff had "worked very consistentlv throughout the year and finalised its- labours with a successful school concert. Other features of the work were as follows: Parents’ day, when a concert was presented to parents ; Arbor Dav, when Mr McPherson ably assisted both secondary find

primary departments, by giving valuable. instruction in forestry. Th© dental clinic, under tlio capable management of Miss Kellow, was providing an asset to the district, over 400 pupils being treated at tlioMauaaa centre. At- , the end of the yaa* Scripture prizes were awarded to W. Davies (Mr Miller’s prize) and to B. Miller and H. Butler (the latter two being the headmaster’s prizes). The headmaster desired to place on record his appreciation of the splendid assistance rendered by the ladies committee and the school committee during 1933. The happy concord prevailing made possible, a very successful year. The whole of the teaching staff ‘wished to express appreciation of the splendid example of diligent citizenship shown by the long service of Mr T. Bridge, the retiring chairman. His consistent’ interest in the cause of education is all the more commendable because of the sacrifice entailed. Finally, school was' deeply indebted to th© caretaker for his unfailing thoughtfulness, and courtesy. He. had proved an indispensable member of the staff. The co-ordination of school, home and community was being achieved —in short., the aim of education, a practical reaction to environment, was being attained. The treasurer’s report showed a credit of £25. IQs. 9d. The following were elected to the committee :Messrs 0. T. Barry (chairman), J. Crompton (secretary and treasurer). V. Adlam. G. Butler, R. J. Miller. P". Instone, R. Silby and J. Laursen. , It was resolved to recommend to the incoming committee to apply for a full time dental clinic nurse for tne district. After a long discussion concerning the school admission age, it was decided to urge the authorities to revert to the admission age of fi»e years. A heatv vote of thanks was accorded to the retiring chairman and committee men. Mr Parry made a presentation to Mr Bridge on behalf of the teachers and committee as a token for his great interest in the school, affairs over a period" of approximately 30 years.

MANGAIOKI SCHOOL GOOD FINANCIAL POSITION. QUESTION OF ADMISSION AGEL A very satisfactory nfiancial position was revealed at the annual meeting of the Mangatoki committee. The general account had a credit- balance of £6 12s 6d and the special account £9 14s 7d, a total of £l6 7s Id. For the school picnic sports material etc. £ll 8s lid was collected locally. The Junior Red Cross class donated £2, and £2 8s 3d was received from the Christmas tree committee. The funds had been nursed to some extent with the purpose of contributing to the installing of an electric pump to > nsuie a good supply of water for the sani r tary' system. Hot cocoa was supplied free to the children during the . iiir ter.

The sanitary arrangements at the school had been rebuilt and modernised continued the report. This essential work was made possible by the board sharing the cost with the department. The grounds and extensive lawns had received close attention. Further shrubs had. been planted in addition to the usual bedding plants. Labour supplied by the Unemployment Board enabled 52 chains of heavy hedges to he cut and the necessary burning done. j Keen interest was taken by the chiV dren in the competitions in connection with the ensilage judging in association with the Farmers’ Union field day. The school was well represented in the Boys and Girls’ Club competitions. It was found necessary to cheek the performance of visiting showmen at the school end to restrict the sellincr of tickets and subscription, canvasses. Sport was encouraged by the purchase of a new tennis net- and cricket material. The cricket team showed much improvement and finished equal for the section competition but was beaten in the play-off. The report expressed thanks to Mrs S. Morgan and Messrs Carlson and Hammond for conveying _ the t'eamis lt» matches out of the district. The Bible reading and religions instruction classes, were well attended. Appreciation of the services of the three clergymen was expressed. Reference was made in the report to the school age admission. The concessions granted were appreciated but an appeal was made for the removal of all restrictions for voluntary 5-year-qlcl admission age and the .’institution of kindergarten instruction rn all primarv schools.

Mr A. E. Mahon, the headmaster, reported that the roll number had remained at the same level. Apart fi-om minor ailments there had been no sick, ness. He contended this was due to the excellent condition in which the buildings and surroundings had been kept by the committee. Regrey was expressed, that Miss Bowden, assistant, was leaving the school for a position art; Canterbury. Her services were eulogised, particularly her work with, the junior classes. The following committee was elected : Messrs J. H. Anderson. E. W. Carlson. A. A. Hammond (treasurer), J. L. Taylor. C. H. Parker (chairman and secretary).

RIVERLEA SCHOOL DECREASE' IN ROLE NUMBER. POSSIBLE FALL IN GRADE. (From Our Own Correspondent). Tht.ro was a good attendance oi Rjverlea householders at the meeting, near 20 being present. The following committee was elected : Messrs E. Chapman, J,. W. Kenyon, \V. R. Lavell, E. Gibson, M. F. Voullaire. A strongly , worded resolution, protesting against the raising of the school entry age to six years and advocating a return to the five years standard, was adopted. Mr A. D. Turner, in declining nomination, said that he 'had had a. long innings as a committeeman and would always maintain liis interest in the school. Mr F. T. Nicholson also declined nomination. Votes of tlumks were passed to the retiring members and a welcome extended to new members. Expressions of. regret at the retirement of Mr Turner were made by the meeting. At a subsequent meeting of the committee Mr Chapman was re-elected chairman and Mr Voullaire reappointed secretary. The annual report presented to the householders at River lea last evening stated that this would be the last annual report to be laid before a meet-j ing of householders as under the new: alyt mretings of householders would be held bi-annually and committees I would sit for two years instead of only! one as heretofore. It would be rement

bered that the last report had fore shadowed farther improvements,. fo t ll *, grounds’, and. these had been earrieu. out witn the’ aid of unemployed r.eliei labour, subsidised by the committee to the extent of £8 12s. These improvements had consisted of the removal <•! old pines, completion of levelling! ol playing area, planting of trees ana some hedge planting. The committee viewed with, dismay the decrease in the roll number to 50, as this would almost certainly mean a fall in grade and probable severe loss of revenue and the loss of Mi Harre, who would be above the grade or the school. The average attendance during the year had been good, though adversely affected during the spring by the severe influenza epidemic then prevailing. The alteration in the entrance age was also detrimental and further ■efforts should be made to get a reversion to the five-year entrance age. Dealing with finance the report stated that in spite of the heavy expenditure on ground improvements, a sum totalling £26. the year had ended, with a credit balance of ' £4 lQs. .Commencing' the year with a credit balance of”£l3 16s, tlie gross receipts lor the year had amounted to £BS Os 7d, and i the gross expenditure to £BO 9s 9d The receipts in the general account totalled £55 11s ?d, _ and the chief items were the capitation allowance oi £34 15s, and a transfer from the special account towards the cost of ground improvements of £l7 Us Id. The expenditure in the general account amounted to the same as the receipts viz. £55 11s 9d, and the chief items were: Repairs and improvements, £26 L2s 9d • clearing and sanitary services. £ls ss' 4d ; fuel and lighting £4 18s 6d; books and' stationery, £4 14s Gd and sundries £2 4s 7d. The receipts in the special account amounted to £29 8s 10d and were made up O' tiie credit balance in that account at the beginning of the year of £ll 3s Bd; receipts from entertainments, £l3 3s 2d-. and picnic fund, £4, Gd. The expenditure was made up ot transfer to general account for ground improvements, £l7 11s Id; picnic expenses. £4 6s Id; sports material and sundry £3 Ms lOd, a total of £24 18s, leaving a credit balance in the special account of £4 10s lOd. The gardens and grounds had received full attention during the year ana were a credit to the school. The basketball area and the riewly-levelleu playground had been sown with lawn grass. The trees on the terrace haci been trimmed and had made good progress. Some forty-two deciduous trees .had been purchased and; planted; in the ten-ace enclosure and below the school. Mr Stables had donated a number of Lombardy poplars and thanks WGr© <lu©. to linn tor this. Thfc t main (plantation was maiemig great, progress and all the lesser also Going well. A hedge of accaeia verticulata had been planted, but had not done well. The old pines along the Mangawliero Road had been cut down and a line of lawsoniana- should be planted in their place for shelter to the master’s residence. A new garden had been turned in. The old garden hau been planted in oats, barley and lupms for digging in. Some hedge trimming was necessary this year, apd further, trimming should h e done in the mam plantation and the new garden required to be ; trenched and dug. Mr R. Svme and also Mr D. McKay, the board’s' agricultural, instructor, had visited the school at intervals during the year and generally, expressed pleasure at condition off the grounds. During the year the committee had erected for the children a seesaw and slide' and also a gymnastic ladder. This apparatus had cost the committee approximately £ll and had been erected bv the members of the committee with the valuable- assistance- of Mr "HI H. Hooper to whom thanks were due for his help. Tiue children had 'continued their interest in the competitions under the children’s agricultural clubs, and there had been sixteen root crops, judged during the year. Interest in the calf reai dig was maintained and some fine animals. were raised-. The group judging had again been held at, Riverlea during the year and. calves were present from the following schools: Riverlea, Kaponga, Kaponga Convent, Makalca, Awatuna and Te Kiri. A pleasing feature was the large attendance of parents at the judging. Thanks; were due to the local ladies of the W.D.F.U. foi providing lunch at the ©roup judging. Interest in athletics had been maintained and the local boys in conjunction with the Awatuna school had put a team into the field for the primary] schools Rugby competition and had. won the majority of- the games. The local school “cricket- team, succeeded in, winning its division, hut had been defeated in the semi-final by Kapoiign. An honour to the school during, the ~vear was the selection of Harold G organ a® a member of. the Taranaki prim, ary schools Rugby representative team. The girls played their usual round of basketball games and won a good proportion of. them. The usual teams had been sent down to the annual tournaments at Manaia on the King’s birthday. A number of swimming certificates for distances up to 50() yards were won by the pupils. \ Appreciation of the excellent work of the staff during the year; was expressed and mention made of the. excellent report of tlie inspectors. The headmaster, Mr H. R. Harre, was to be congratulated on the reports received. Miss Keightley, who had been assistant, had also carried out her duties with great credit and it was with deep regret that the committee had learned' towards tlie end of the year of luer impending removal to Frankley. A farewell function was tendered to her at the breaking-nip and the children had made a presentation and members of the committee expressed their regret at her departure. Miss Nina Brown, of Stratford, who liad. been assistant at Tataraimaka, had succeeded Miss Keightley a® assistant' at Riverlea. During the year members of the committee had attended meetings of the South Taranaki. School Committees’ Association and the school’s representative had regularly attended, the meetings of the Kit ham District Dental : Clinic Committee. In connection with the latter it was pleasing to see tlib interest displayed locally and when it was mentioned that-* thirty-five locial children had been treated during the year it would be seen that parents were hot neglecting their opportunity in this connection. Riven so there were

Jilob 1\ _L>I 1/Wll, wi owauivi u, ” liad. been assistant at Tataraimaka, had succeeded Miss Keightley as assistant' at Riverlea. During the year members of the committee had attended meetings of the South Taranaki School Committees’ Association and the school’s representative had regularly attended, the meetings of the Eltham District Dental Clinic Committee. In connection with the latter it was pleasing to see the interest displayed locally, and when it t was mentioned that' thirty-five looal children had been treated during the year it would be seen. thats parents were riot neglecting their opportunity in this connection. EVen. so there, were several eligible children in the district who were not enrolled. A number of- under age children were receiving treatment and this was all to the good. Perhaps the. most important event during the year had been the visit in September, of members of the education board. They had expressed great appreciation of the work of the committee and. staff. As a result of this visit- much needed improvements were made to the .shelter shed and the wash hand facilities; for the children had been increased and improved. In conclusion tlie report referred to the happy relations which had existed between the committee and the staff and between the members of tlie committee, and thanks were expressed to all who had helped with the conveyance of the childen to the dental clinic and to f ootball.i yn/iclfftt and ' basketball matches. Special thanks were also due to Mrs Harre for her very valuable assistance in organising entertainments during the vear .and to Mr J. Nairn, of Huwera.” and lii® party for visiting Riverlea and assisting at the annual' concert in October.

NORMANBY SCHOOL PAST YEAR’S PROGRESS. - PROTEST OVER. AGE UJMIT. ' The annual meeting of householders was held in the Normanby school on Monday evening, there being an attendance of 22. , , . For the election of the new committee there were nine nominations, tne following being elected: Mrs T. Evans. Mrs G. \V. Gane, Messrs A. GaUmvay, T. Evans. P. Whitelocl;, C. \V. Haidway and W. Bennett, Mr A. Gnllowaj was .subsequently elected clianman.s Mrs T. Evans treasurer ,and -Mr Evans secretary. ~ „ , , It was decided to hold future nioetings on the second Monday each month. Messrs Galloway and Hardway wen. appointed, the visiting committee 101 die ensuing month. The report of the. chairman, ivlr A. Galloway . - stated that the committee could- justly claim to hay© carrico out its duties well 'durixip-^the year. A. loss was sustained in the departure ol t-ne Rev. J. Watson, the previous chairman, the committee associating itself with other public organisations in a farewell to him. Mr Watson’is excellent ' service as treasurer and later chairman is recorded with appreciation on the committee’s minutes. During tne year the school grounds had been kept neat and tidy, the garden plot being fenced, and the assembly ground concreted, making for greater comfort in wet weather. Maintenance work oil the school building had been attended vo by the education board as required. A very successful concert was given and the committee’s thanks were due -to the headmaster and staff for excellent work done. . , ' This Year it was unanimously decided to hold the annual school picnic av Normanby; and it was understood! that -the decision met- with the general approval' of parents and friends. Tlieie was an excellent attendance and many 'donations were received towards tlie effort. . The school n;as. very, successful ill apart from actual school work, havinor'- a very successful Junior Red Cross and being prominent in the Bovs and Girls’ Club, competitions. A farewell was tendered to Sister Small on her departure on transfer to W.eilinotoh. One member, Eila. Harrison, gamed the highest marks in the South Taranaki Red Cross certificate examination. The school’s most successful representative in the Boys and Girls’ Club competitions was Gwen Nicholson, who 'won three cups in various sections. Douglas Grantham was also prominent, and won several medals. Thanks were due to ex-members of the committee, Messrs W. Bennett and p" J. Linn for their valuable assistance in othe club activities. A concrete cricket pitch laid down during the • year will be available for play next season. The dental clinic was now working satisfactorily. Miss P. Ganno.way’s resignation had been received, ; to take effect at the end. of the term. An announcement as to the new appointment was expected shortly. A satisfactory report had' been re ceived from the inspector arid all children wlib sat for their proficiency were 'successful. Roger Mirihinnick, a Maori . boy who. gained! his proficiency, was given a bursary and is now attending .Wesley College, Paerata. The results • attained are ample evidence., that the ; children were in the hands of a very .efficient, staff. ' , The headmaster, Mr. T. Taylor, reported. that, although the roll number felt considerably at the beginning of ‘•the year, there was a recovery dur-ng the latter months, and the* roll now • was well maintained. A feature of the cNormanby. school roll was its - instability owing to frequent changes of - the admissions in 1933, 57 per cent, were -withdrawn, the admitted famines combing from 17 schools, and the _ withdrawals going to 14 schools. This disclosed. a large local, moving population, and although, unavoidable, the drawbacks. to children and school was obvious. IP ■fcas; a pleasure to record the increasing interest displayed by parents in the-scliOol." and- the staff, had; - appreciated ' the ■ many pvid'enbes of a desire to co-operate "with the. teachers~ * " r' . Sports and swimming had not been, 'neglected., and- the, school, was greatly; indebted to Messrs H. "Wiley arid. P. J. Linn for the provision of transport. The junior Red Cross was a flourishincr institution with a membership of 56. Sister -Small- was farewelled- towards tlie end of. the year and Sister Jewess welcomed. The Boys and Girls’ Club was annually receiving more support, there being slight- increases in entries and an appeal was made to parents for more support and encouragement towards the laudable objective of the association. Beginners were steadily coming forward for the school orchestra and good progress was being made. Tlie school possessed one of the finest memorial gates in the Dominion and although on Anzac Day. it was garlanded with wreaths and flowers, it was suggested that in future, Arizac Day services could be held at the memorial. Thanks were due to a willing ana enthusiastic -staff for their aid; in all ways, both in the school and for assistance at conceits, picnics and functions. Most cordial relations existed between staff and the committee, and the staff greatly appreciated the- consideration of the chairman and his colleagues in the work of promoting the - welfare of the school. SCHOOL ADMISSION AGE.

It was unanimously decided to support a- renanT that the school entrance .age be reduced to five years, and that there be fixed a maximum number in a class that- a teacher be required to take. The chairman stated that there were' cases where a teacher was taking two standards and that any many instances the average number, 35, reported to be was almost- doubled. He questioned whether it was a wise thing to economise in education, New Zealand was the only country making this economy, but he was unable to find out what this saving in money amounted to. It- was a curious faot that previously ail |»chool committee® in New Zealand held their annual meetings at the sam© time, but this year various dates were set". Possibly, in view of the fact that a general appeal would he made on trio question of the age of admission, this splitting of the various dist-ricss would lessen the weight oi the protest.

NEW SCHOOL DESIRED OPINION ATTKAPONG A. EXCLUSION OF 'FIVE-YEA R -OLDS. There was a small attendance of householders at the annual meeting at Eaponga. ' ' ' The committee’s report stated that during, the year all machinery matters iri connection with the working of the school had functioned smoothly. There were eleven meetings of the committee and there, was a full attendance of members at each meeting. The headmaster had also attended, each meeting of- the. committee^ A change of head teachers was effected at the beginning of the third term in 1933. when Mr. W. J. A. Farnell resigned. Mr. A. T. Honore, of Kapuni. was appointed to fill the vacancy. AiT the beginning of the first term in 1934 a rationed assistant, Mass S. Picket, was appointed to the school and 1 the teaching staff' now numbet^d

tour. The janitor, Mrs. F. Albon, re- • .signed during the year and- was re- ■ 'placed by Mr. W. E. Parkes. Considerable attention' had been given to the school buildings during the year, the building haying been 'painted, and many other repairs undertaken. The committee placed upon record its appreciation of the attention given to the buildings by the board, but desired to again emphasise.' that repairs to the school building proper would be regarded only as an expedient. The building was over forty years old and it was considered that ‘ the time bad now arrived when consideration should be given to the matter of | making provision for a new building. The school grounds had received the combined attention of the head teacher and the committee throughout the year and were in excellent order. A few minor alterations to the general lay-out of the grounds were in prospect and it was hoped to carry out the work during the coming year. Owing to the appointment of an. extra assistant teacher it. ' became necessary to subdivide the front classroom on the south side of the building. The work was carried out by the board and a small heating stove was also installed. The school concert held in November last was an unqualified success, the pupils acquitting themselves in a highly creditable manner. The committee was indebted to the lady teachers for the splendid work put in for the training of the pupils. The proceeds of the concert were being utilised in augmenting the school library arid other neces- , sarv requirements for the pupils and teachers. The annual picnic was again held at Opunake, when beautiful weather prevailed. The picnic was financed by competitions and donations from parents and there was a large attendance of pupils arid parents. Last winter a cocoa club was inaugurated and proved of much benefit to "those scholars who remain in school for midday lunch. The club was financed bv a subscription from parents, who readily responded to the committee’s request, and. cocoa, was served to an average of 38 pupils daily, which represented four-sevenths of the number on the roll. The largest number served on one day was 46 and the season lasted for 46 days. The average cost per day was 6|d, and the average cost per pupil Bd. The club commenced on June 13 and finished on August 18. It was proposed to again operate the club this winter, but operations would commence some three weeks earlier, as it was proposed to start immediately after the May holidays. A request would again be made to parents for financial help towards the cost of tlio club. The committee desired: to place upon record their keen appreciation of the consideration at all times shown y the Taranaki Education Board and the head teacher and staff of the school. The statement of receipts and expenditure for the year showed that grants from the' Education Board had amounted to £49 18s and 16s 10d for hand-work The expenditure was accounted for by. cleaning and sanitery services £25 18s, fuel and lighting £l/ 19s 3d, repairs- and. improvements £4 Is Id, books and stationery £o 11s 6d, arid incidental expenses £2 3s 3d, leaving a credit balance at the bank ■-;■ February 28 of £8 4s Bd. - ‘HEADMASTER’S RETORT. The headmaster (Mr A. T. Honore) reported that he began km duties^at Kupong on Jgp*' a* H? e ( the roll number stood at 100. 4* t “ close of the year it was- 99, and. at, present stood fit 97, There had >en very little sickness m the school and the attendances had been very ' The co-operation of the parents in connection with this important matter was highly appreciated. Rather heavy work would have devolved upon the teaching staff this, yea.r 'butfiqr the appointment of Miss S. was in charge of Standards I and R : The term examinations would Ee com-pleted-this week and reports would be J forwarded to parents. Last year the school had amalgamated w-ith the Convent school basketball and, football teams, and. the : basketball teauf won the cup. The cup is now in the Kap.onga school, the arrangement being that A should, rip . held for a. given-period by each school represented by the combination. J-b® coaching of the basketball team was m the hands of Miss, L Guppy, who took a keen interest in the garner aspect of her work. The football last fear was in the hands of Mb M - Carrington, under whose guidance the team, did quite well., two boy® bemg selected, for -representative matenes. The two schools were again combining for football and much promise was shown. Mr Thoumine had kindly consented to coach the team The interschool competition would begin rirnnediately after the holidays. Two rounds would be played, and it would, be necessary to relv upon the goodwill ot local householders to supply the necessary transport for outside games, in© cricket team won the local;, competition, but lost the match, against Okinawa for the final. Mr C. E. Betts had. very kindly given his services ns coach to the team. . , . in November last Mis.s Guppy had organised a produce stall to raise | runcis tor school games, and through her enterprise and the generous cooperation of parent® and pupils Hi© venture, had realised the sum of £5. Steps were taken to begin a li brat y ‘at the scnool. A portion of the pro- V > ceeds of the annual concerts was bemg expended; for this- purpose and \ 1 books, to the value of £5 had been 5 ordered. * ... 1 Some progress had been mane with, the school. garden, but very little more could be done fey the teachers and pupils until a working bee had. ; carried out the pioneering work necessary. ; Speaking to the report and balance- ! sheet, the chairman said the coxnmit- . tee were to be congratulated upon the sound financial position. He also paid a tribute to the assistance received • throughout the year from parents. The headmaster was thanked for his ! report and; 1 congratulated upon the , condition of the school and the inter-. est lie is displaying in the welfare, i physically and educationally, of the children. Some discussion ensued on the. question of the exclusion of the five-year-olds from the schools, the meeting bemg of. the opinion that education, was for. the welfare of the children and. it was not in the interests of education Ito ha ve children running round irre- . 'sponsiblv when they could be 4P ischool. That public .opinion was ' against the exclusion of the five-year-iolds was evident by tlie number of ' ikinderga.rten private . schools which 1 ;were springing into existence tbrough- - 'out the country. . , - ; The. following, resolution was carried ! unanimously: '“That this- meeting or {householders considers the. exclusion or 1 the five-year-oldss is not in the host interests of- education.” A copv of the resolution is to be forwarded to the Taranaki Education Board.” 1 ; The election of the comiriittee. for teh ensuing two years resulted in the ' old committee —Messrs Brewer, Nor- ' gate, Gordge, TayLforth and Gbrder — 'being re-elected. ■ At, a subsequent meeting. Mr Q. H. Brewer was re-, elected: chairman arid. Mr O. A. Carden, Jfe secretary. yfe