PARENTS’ DAY.

Waikato Times, Volume 112, Issue 18777, 27 October 1932, Page 3

PARENTS’ DAY.

HAMILTON WEST SCHOOL. FINE DISPLAY OF WORK. SINGING PLEASES VISITORS. An opportunity to see their children at work, and gain some idea of the up-to-date teaching methods used in the primary schools to-day, was afforded parents and friends of the scholars at Hamilton West School yesterday, when the annual Parents' Day was held. A large number of parents and others availed themselves of the invitation to visit the school, extended by the headmaster, Mr H. G. Hall, and keen interest was shown in the classrooms and the school grounds, which have recently been extensively improved. The idea of the Parents’ Day was an excellent one, as much of the su'ccess of a school depends upon the 00-operatlon of the parents and teachers. Yesterday’s function enabled parents to learn more of what is being done for their children. In every classroom samples of the soholars’ work were displayed, -and some very fine, examples of colour work, drawing, mapping, illustrated essays and handiwork of many types were Included. Cookery, dressmaking, and hobbies were among other subjects illustrated. The visitors were free to enter all the, classrooms during the lessons, a privilege which was accepted by most' of those present. Questions were answered by the staff, and the children demonstrated the training being given in singing, e,locution, drill, folk dancing, dramatisation, and similar subjects. An Inspiring Sight. An inspiring sight was an exhibition of folk' dancing' in the playground by over a hundred hoys and girls. These dances, which are becoming Increasingly important in the school syllabus, were very well done, and reflected great credit on the teachers responsible for the coaching of the children. The senior girls'were also seen In two folk dances. After these the boys and girls of the two senior classes adjourned to one of the classrooms, where they sang several songs, Including traditional airs and harmonised items. Singing Is a feature of the syllabus at Hamilton West, and the work of the children yesterday worthily upheld the reputation of the school In this direction. Before each Item was rendered one of the children gave a short description of the piece and Its composer. The singing was undoubtedly one of the most enjoyed features. Most of the visitors took the opportunity to inspect the extensive improvements to the grounds, now almost completed. The big playingfield, with Its terraced and wide concrete stairway, was the centre, of attraction. This ground has been formed with relief labour, and when completed should be one of the finest, If not the finest, sports grounds in the district. Provision has been made, for a football ground and crlolcet pitches, and other arrangements are under consideration. The school tennis oourt has also been tarred and sanded, and it is probable that a further court will be formed. Two punga pergolas, each capable of seating 60 children, have been, ere'cted at the rear of the school, and will be utilised as 'classrooms during tlie hot summer months. They are ideal for the purpose, and a great acquisition to the sohool. Many eulogistic comments on the healthy situation of the school, and the excellent facilities provided for the children in and around it, were heard.

A Great Success. From every aspect Parents’ Day was a great success, and as a result of their visit parents and friends of the school will doubtless be brought into closer touch with the staff, so that close co-oparation between school and home will be-maintained.