TOWN SCHOOLS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LVI, 16 July 1925, Page 4

TOWN SCHOOLS

MEETING OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS

A meeting was held on Monday night in the Education Board room to discuss ways of raising funds for certain urgent requirements at the Boys’ Central School, Brook Street, and Tasman Street. A gratifying number of parents and friends of the children braved a wild nig'hit and apologies were received from several mothers and one grandmother, whose duties kept them at home, but who will be glad to help later on.

Mr McConchie was in the chair and asked the headmaster, Mr Douglas, to address Ihe meeting. Mr. Douglas stated that the Government provided the school buildings with high windows frosted at the bottom and the bare furniture, was it any wonder that the children spoke of being in prison five hours a day. The Central school fence lias recently been removed: tint, was symbolic: he hoped it- was removing the prison idea, and also- the harrier between the children in school and the parents out side. He hoped parents would drop in and see the school arid ihe games, especially on Fridays when, in that small area of ground they would find Rugby, soccer, hockey and basket ball being played, and also gymnastics. But all these games wanted support for balls, etc., and they must have music and more books to brighten the school life. Especially he pleaded for the fife and drum band, and stressed its influence on the whole school.

Mr Wood suggested holding a gala day or a concert in one of the theatres.

Mr Russell spoke, as a member of the Childrens’ Gala Day Committee, and thought two galas held before Christmas might spoil each other. He suggested that the meeting send delegates to meet his committee to see if a joint affair could be arranged. Mrs Tillyard proposed that Mr Russell’s generous suggestion be accepted. Mrs Bannerman proposed that a Queen Carnival be held, choosing wee queens from Tasman Street. Air F. Cotton suggested a fancy dress bail, for children and adults.

A committee was sef up, consisting of Mesdames Aydon, Bannerman, Naylor, Tillyard and Winstanlev, Messrs F. Cotton, T. \Y. Foster, 1. Hill, MeCnnchie, Wrigglesworth and Wood, with power to add to their number. A committee meeting was fixed for Wednesday next at 8 o'clock, in the Education Board room, to which parents and friends are invited.