PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Press, Volume C, Issue 29498, 27 April 1961, Page 2

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Kindergarten Training With a full quota of students for 1961. the Christchurch Kindergarten College has derived considerable benefit from alterations to the college building. The added space had made working conditions excellent, and it had meant that music and movement, drama, and social events could now be held at the college instead of in outside halls, said a report from the college principal (Miss R. Wilkie). Miss Wilkie's report, which was p.art of the annual report of the Christchurch Free Kindergarten Association. expressed appreciation of all who had helped in the practical training of students. "With a group ot 52 students, Christchurch has a considerable responsibility in this direction. I would emphasise that no matter how efficient lectures and discussions may be, no matter how comprehensive the college and library facilities, it is in her daily contacts with the kindergarten child that the student learns the fundamentals of her work.” Miss Wilkie said. “Every student must have ample opportunity to obey Froebel's dictum, ‘come let us live with our children.' During 1960 we have been able to give it to her.”

Almost all kindergartens of the association were now housed in attractive, wellequipped buildings, said a report from the supervising director of staff (Miss E. Millen). Outdoor Play During the year many committees, staff members and parents had worked towards improving the playing areas surrounding kindergartens she said. When the weather was suitable many of the children spent most of their time out of doors, rence playgrounds needed as much careful planning as inside playrooms. Working bees had cleared and laid out grounds, planted lawns, trees and gardens. Outdoor equipment had also been greatly improved, said Miss Millen’s report.