A SCHOOL GROWS

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 19, 13 April 1927, Page 9

A SCHOOL GROWS

NEWTON CENTRAL ENLARGED POPULATION DRIFT The drift of city population whicfi had the effect of reducing attendance at the Newton East School has had the effect also of increasing attendance at the Newton Central School. The result being that the Education Department prepared plans for an additional building on the same site as this to accommodate the growing attendance and the pupils of the old Newton East School, which it was thought wise to demolish.

What a contrast to the modern buildings around is this old school. Built in the old-fashioned style, strictly of wood, with narrow high windows and the old-style steep gabled roof, it stands out conspicuously. The records show that it was originally erected in 1877, and additions have been made in 1881, 1896, 1897, and 1903. A first sight shows how ill-adapted for the accommodation of children it is; badly ventilated, badly lighted, and consequently, dangerous to health.

Addition to Newton Central School. Out of Karangahape Road and towards Surrey Crescent is situated the Newton Central School, to which the addition is being made. Here, instead of the dingy, stuffy, old-fashioned building, there is a line modern brick structure. It comprises five classrooms and offices fitted up and built on the most modern lines of school architecture; certainly one of the best schools in Auckland. Beautifully marked rimu doors, panels, and fittings are a feature. A modern system of cross-ventilation has been included in the many improvements. This system provides for a maximum of fresh air with a minimum amount of draught. The big windows have been so designed, too, to get the full benefit of the health-giving sunshine. The headmaster is a strong advocate of cleanliness, and is having everything fitted with that end in view. Even to fhe towels, every child having its own towel and soap instead of the usual community one found in most schools. Admiration is also aroused by the spacious playing fields laid out between the original building and the additional one. The new building will be ready for occupation in about a fortnight and will be officially opened by Mr. A. Burns, chairman of the Education Board, on April 22.