AN OBJECT LESSON

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 2308, 28 November 1925, Page 3

AN OBJECT LESSON

TECHNICAL SCHOOL EXHIBITION.

Far too many of the citizens who know that there is a Technical School in Palmerston North are ignorant of Ihe accomplishments of that institution. It is to them a school technical in name only and more often than not, regarded as a place where the pupil who may bo a little too backward for the High Schools, may get a brief insight into higher mathehiatics, English, science and some of the trades to which the average dull boy or girl is supposed to go.

Such an idea is entirely erroneous and it is a ■well-established fact now that the smartest Apprentices are those that have undergone a preliminary training In their particular trade at the Palmerston North Technical School. That is the reputation the institution now enjoys and It Is not to be wondered at that employers are always ready and only too willing to secure their apprentices from the pupils that pass through tha school, rather than employ the boj or girl who has not had the advantage of that training. For those who are uninformed of which is being accomplished at the school, there is feeing Held in the Technical buildings, an exhibition of pupils’ work that is an object lesson. Kvery department is represented and the display is arranged in such a way that one can obtain not only a view of the finished article, hut an insight into the methods adopted in teaching, manufacturing and designing. “I am astounded,” remarked one gentleman present, “I had no idea such work was taught and accomplished at this school.” That, also, was the general imnresslon of those who availed themselves of the opportunity to visit the Institution yesterday. In all the trades classes, there is on view a large variety of manufactured articles, many of which are for use in the school itself. It was explained bv the director (Mr. G. G. Hancox. M.A.) that the school adopted the policy of making all it required in the way of furniture, instruments and fixtures that it possibly could. In the woodwork classes as well, the pupils made their own tool boxes and whatever else „ they might require. There are many fine exhibits in the carpentry shop from rough timber work like farm gates to dove-tailed Cabinet work and cake-stands. A miniature bungalow Is also In course of erection. All these exhibits show the extensive and diversified nature of the instruction .given, The same applies tp

gineering and plumbing shops, where many useful articles have been manufactured and are on view.

The ladies will no doubt be more interested In the millinery and cooking display, which is quite as comprehensive. There are specimens of art needlework, plain dress-making, costumes and hats, all of the latest design and fashion. The cooking exhibits made a tempting array and reflect groat credit upon the young housewives In the making. The science room was fitted out for show purposes and proved a centre of attraction, especially as experiments were being carried on by pupils during the course of the day. In the art room as well, many particularly fine exhibits were on view; everything the work of the pupils themselves. This display was likewise instructive to the visitor, especially so as regards the array of pewter and leather ar. tides that were shown. The typewriting arid shorthand classes had also a small display of work, showing what was being accomplished In that department. The exhibition will be open again this afternoon from 2.30 till 4 p.m: and those who have not availed themselves of the opportunity of seeing the display should not miss the final invitation' from the school authorities.