TECHNICAL CLASSES

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 10, Issue 66, 23 December 1946, Page 5

TECHNICAL CLASSES

ACCOMMODATION NEEDED

DEPUTATION TO COMMITTEE A deputation consisting of-repre-sentatives of the mechanical, plumbing and electrical trades waited on the Whakatane School Committee at its* last meeting, to further stress the urgent need for accommodation for the night classes in the above technical subjects, at present being conducted in Whakatane. The first speaker was Mr A. O’Rourke, who represented the motor mechanics trade. He briefly outlined the principal objects of the classes, but pointed out that the absence of any set place in which equipment could be stored and instruction given, was a great hindrance. The average attendance at the classes was 9, although 15 were on the roll. In the coming year, he expected the number to increase to 17. The class had been established for two years, and was now running well. At present instruction was carried out in one of the local garage premises, but this arrangement was not particularly suitable. Much equipment was to hand, and the support of the garage proprietors was assured. All that was needed was accommodation.

. For the electrical trade, Mr Geo. Markland stated that the main object at present was to secure a room where theoretical instruction could be given, but a chance to enter upon practical work also, would be welcomed. The maii\ problem at present, however, was to get the class firmly established. Mr S. S. Shapley voiced the needs of the plumbing apprentices. Classes had been inaugurated, he said, and already two of the trainees had passed their theoretical test. The training classes were absolutely essential, as the practical tests set entailed work of a far more complicated nature than was met with in every day jobs in a small town. He fully appreciated the committee’s difficulties, but trusted that something in the way of accommodation could be arranged. \ Other speakers endorsed these remarks, Mr E. R. Dillicar stressing the fact that particularly in the motor trade, practical instruction was essential.

The Chairman (Mr J. W. Wilson) intimated that the committe was interested in the position, and there were high hop'es that a room could be set aside for the use of the technical classes next year. Two buildings were in view, and it was trusted that one of these would be available.

Mr O’Rourke indicated that at present, one room would suffice for the three trades. Arrangements, he said, would be made so that the one would not interfere with the others. The chairman stated, that the room which the committee had particularly in view, was a shed erected for the use of the caretaker as a workshop and toolshed, and if no other place were available, he thought that this could probably be brought into use. The deputation withdrew after Mr O’Rourke had extended thanks to the committee for their sympathetic hearing.