BOYS FOR THE LAND

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21245, 27 July 1932, Page 14

BOYS FOR THE LAND

TRAINING AT FLOCK HOUSE APPLICANTS AT AUCKLAND Fourteen applications havo been received by tho Auckland Provincial Patriotic and War Relief Association from boys, tho sons of soldiers who were killed or disabled at the war, for training at Flock House, with a view to going on the land. Tho Auckland allotment of boys is 18, and it is anticipated that this quota will be filled before the end of the month. Tho secretary, Mr. T. B. Kay, stated yesterday that the boys who have so far applied for assistance were of a good type and sho'uld prove successful as future farmers. Finance for tho scheme of training killed or disabled soldiers' sons is provided by patriotic associations throughout the country and the Government in equal shares. The cost of each boy is about £1 a week during his period of training, which extends for eight months, while a grant of £lO toward clothing and other expenses is allowed when the applicant is drafted to Flock House. As the boys are well provided for whilo they are at Flock House and the full amount of clothing is not required there, no further allowance is necessary when they leave to go on farms. After completing their training the boys are placed with selected farmers, the Flock Houso authorities being assisted in their choice of positions by the Farmers' Union officials in tho different districts. The period of practical training on farms is akin to an apprenticeship, and the boy's welfare is watched carefully, this interest being continued for the threo years that the boy is undergoing practical training. It is hoped that tho Auckland applicants will be able to commence their course at Flock House by tho middle of August.