AT SCHOOL ON A SHIP

New Zealand Times, Volume LII, Issue 12161, 11 June 1925, Page 2

AT SCHOOL ON A SHIP

NOVEL AUCKLAND PROPOSAL TRAVELLING COLLEGE. Recently, Mr B. Buttle, of the Auckland Provincial Industrial Association, introduced the question of a travelling college scheme, and he was asked to submit particulars of bis proposal in writing. This was done, and the matter was referred to a sub-committee. It will be generally admitted that travel in countries other than one’s own is a most effective means of acquiring knowledge of a widespread and varied character, says the outline of the scheme issued by the association. To many of us born in New Zealand, the opportunity for such travel comes too late in life to be of any real value in the development of our highest faculties It, then, does little more than afford pleasure, and the experiences gained come too late to be taken advantage of in our business or professional vocations. The object of the Bcheme is to secure these advantages to youths at an age when they would, under our present system, be attending college or secondary schools—sav, from IC to 18 years of age. WANTED—A STEAMER The scheme would entail the securing of a suitable steamer. This need not be of a very up-to-date character or in any way expensively fitted. Such a steamer should be obtained somewhere at a cost which would be practicable. It would then be ne«e<kary to get together a suitable number of youths, say, 150 or 200. In order to qualify to become one of this number, candidates would be required to paaa a strict examination-, based largely on their powers of observation. This is essential, far the contemplated cruise is not to be regarded aa. merely a pleasure trip, but ratfcer as an unique opportunity of gaKiBB knowledge of a varied character. A carefully-selected staff of masters would be necessary, and a suitable syllabus drawn up. This, of course/ would be done by expert educationists. The advantages to be gained from such a scheme are not readily estimated. The geographical knowledge gained in this manner by the scholars would never be forgotten. They would also have an opportunity of visiting places of historical interest, and in this way would knowledge of history be permanently acquired. Opportunity would be afforded of comparing our own method at farming with those of other countries. SEEING THE WORLD Scholars would see some of the world’s great secondary industries Also they would see the many varied styles of architecture adopted in different countries. To visit many of the ancient cathedrals is an education in itself, and how can one estimate the educative value of viewing, under suitable mstructors, the pictures and statuary of the old-time masters, which can be seen only by visiting the galleries of the old land. Also, a knowledge of the customs and habits of thought of people other than British is useful in paving the way to a better understanding between the nations of the world. This knowledge can bo better gained by seeing these people not only at work but also at play. Another very important feature is, that it is graduallv but snrelv being borne in upon thinking people that the Pacific is to become the centre of very important operations affecting the whole world. In this connection Australia and New Zealand are destined to be in the forefront of any chances which take place. It. therefore, behoves us to that our young peoolo of to-dav are fullv equipped with the best and most practical education we can possibly secure for them, for they will be our leaders 25 or 30 years hence. The Auckland Association is pushing on with a campaign, and at a preliminary step is holding an esssv comoefi+’on in connection with the matter. Tba rrm*-" ere: V,> s t. PI'): se-ond, £10: and thir'V C~ Professor Pegar is jnd~e and Messrs J Drummond. S. E. Ramb. and G. .T. Pork resistant 'ndcee --bjle the competition closes on June 39th