MISUSE OF SCHOOLS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 14 March 1936, Page 13

MISUSE OF SCHOOLS

(To the Editor) Sir, —This letter is a protest against tho introduction of modern business and advertising methods into the lives of our children at school, and the specific cases which follow will make the complaint clearer. Some time ago the representative of a local firm appeared at the schools and gave away presents, at the same time inviting the youngsters to visit So and So’s Christmas display. Later on tile picture theatres commenced distributing leaflets and private tutors of music and elocution made ail appeal for pupils, this time the matter being brought before the children in their class rooms. Yesterday the pupils were allowed out early so that they could visit a variety show, and also y : ere presented with leaflets outlining

the terms on which they could join the Nelson Library. Now we are an average family, living on average wages, and keeping strictly to the rule of getting what we can pay for, and going without what we cannot pay for. Glider these conditions the surplus for nou-esseiitials is not large, aiid we resent these efforts to get possession 'of it by suggestions made to young ; children. i It is quite time the. School Committees were told by someone with authority that tile function of tile schools is to educate the children, and not to allow their lack of experience to be exploited . for private gain. 1 Jn an endeavour to get something de--1 finite done about it a copy ” v? ‘ s letter has been sent to the Mi ' Education.—l am, etc.. | C. N. WILKINSON. ■ Nelson. 12th Maim.