END OF OLD SCHOOL.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19798, 19 November 1927, Page 12

END OF OLD SCHOOL.

NAPIER STREET BUILDING. THE WORK OF DEMOLITION. The work of demolishing the old Napier Street School, which has been replaced by a modern brick building, was commenced this week. The contract for the removal of the old building was let some time ago, but the work was deferred to give the Play Association's Community Club uso of the old building until such time as a new home could be found for it. The building was one of the oldest schools in use in Auckland. It was built about 40 years ago, and at one time it was one of the principal city schools. Now, with the drift of population to the suburbs, the main schools are becoming located in the outer areas. The old school claims distinction in that it was the only ono of its kind erected by the Auckland Education Board. For many reasons, including expense, the design was not favoured, and was discarded after tho school had been built. Much of the timber is still in good condition. All tho work to be carried out nt tho Napier Street School will involve tho expenditure of over £2OOO, After tho old building has been removed, tenders will bo called for the levelling of the grounds. This work, which it is proposed to do during tho Christmas holidays, will result in the whole of the site from tho new school to Napier Street being brought to the level of the new school, thus providing a satisfactory playing area. With the material taken from the site, portion of tho gully will bo filled in, and later more playing space will become available. Since it was replaced by tho new Napier Street School, tho old building has served a very useful purpose in connection with tho activities of the Community Club. The youth of the district has received varied training on " community " lines, which has been of undoubted benefit in a district so densely populated. The association is at present seeking a now home for the club.