New High School Facilities Next Year?

Northern Advocate, 16 December 1938, Page 9

New High School Facilities Next Year?

It was hoped that this time next year would see a new girls' school and hostel for the Whangarei High School, said the chairman of the Board of Governor's, Mr H. C. Rishworth, last night, when speaking at the school's annual prize-giving in the Town Hall. It would not be possible for the new buildings to he provided by next winter, said Mr Rishworth. It was a matter for regret that improved accommodations could not bo provided during the year now closing. but Hie hoard sympathised with parents and pupils in the unsuitable surroundings. Mr Rishworth explained that Mr Porter, representing the board, was now in Wellington, and had the previous day approached the Minister of Education, the Hon. P. Fraser, on the matter. Desperate Position Likely. “Shortage of classroom accommodation, particularly on the girls’ side, has proved a serious problem,, and is likely to prove desperate next year,” said the headmaster, Mr A. R. Ryder, in his review of the school’s activities.

“I hope this time next year to be able to congratulate the board on having achieved a new girls’ school and hostel,” remarked Mr J. G. Barclay,

M.P. fur Marselen, in addressing the gathering. Shortage oL Builders. Mr Barclay pointed out that all available builders and material were now engaged in every town in the Dominion in connection with Slate houses and public buildings. “There is a tremendous building programme ahead of the Government, he said. As far as Whangarei was concerned, at the present time- it would be necessary, in order to proceed with new buildings necessary at the high school, 1 o take the builders away from the bousing scheme.

“It is a question of which is the move necessary-’' he went on.

“It is always on open question, and I am not going to argue about It. 1 will do my utmost to get the school and hostel built." Chairman’s Telegram. • “When Mr Rishwovth received a telegram, from the Minister of Education to-day, he hoped that it would contain an undertaking for the provision of the necessary new buildings, but it only conveyed the compliments of the season,” remarked the president of the Parents’ Association. Mr R, G. Hosking, amid laughter. “I know that Mr Barclay presonally will do his best to secure the new buildings,” added Mr Hosking. “No member of Parliament would be satisfied to let the conditions remain as they arc.” he added.