Many Maori schools teach dances, craft work and similar activities based on Maori tradition. Here is a canoe dance performed by children of the Mangamuka school (Hokianga) in 1953 (Photograph: John Ashton) Many Maori schools are noted for the excellent art work they produce. This is true for Ngataki School in the far North where this photo was taken. At Ngataki, art work and other creative activities occupy a very important part of the syllabus. The supervisor of the Arts and Crafts branch of the Education Department, Mr Gordon Tovey, has been specially interested in this school and some others in the district (Te Hapua, Te Kao, Paparore, Oturu, Pukepoto and Oruaiti). Teachers' efforts have mainly been directed to increase the children's awareness, control, perseverance and social poise by providing them with more opportunities for creative work. (N.P.S. Photograph)