A MODEL COUNTRY SCHOOL IN SOUTHLAND.

Otago Witness, Issue 3513, 12 July 1921, Page 51

A MODEL COUNTRY SCHOOL IN SOUTHLAND.

The Education Board inspectors have expressed the opinion that the Waianiwa School (of which illustrations appear in this issue) may be regarded as the model country school in Southland. A glance at the picture, giving a bird’s eye view of the school and ground, will give some idea of what can be done in a short period where the head teacher is energetic and enthusiastic, and is supported by the school committee. The school building has been erected for only six years, and yet it is considered to have the best laid out grounds in Southland. There arc garden plots for the children, concrete paths, ample playground, an open air gynasium. Out of every hour’s work 15 minutes are taken for play (organised games, not scrambles) and physical exercises. 'There are no written home lessons. and the pupils of Standard VI pass regularly every year well under 14 years of age. The school and district, soldiers’ memorial seen in the photograph was designed by the head master (Mr Geo. F. Griffiths), and appears to be distinctly original, as while incorporating the quality of utility it will alwavs he a memorial of the Great War. While Mr Griffiths is running the school on what is Ins own idea of what country schools should be results show that his pupils are well forward in all departments. The school has taken second place in the physical drill competitions for two years m succession, and lias scnolastic honours as well m the way of scholarships, etc.