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Hokitika Guardian, 3 August 1929, Page 4

The movement to establish circles here in connection with the Workers’ Educational Association, should merit very general support. The W.E.A. work has been taken up by Canterbury College which suggests that the course taken in hand wiil be well done. The themes at present in hand—music, art and literature—should appeal Ideally where there are so many votaries to music and drama. The scheme is worked from Christchurch, and lectures being sent out week by week to the established circles. These are studied and discussed together with the supporting data consisting of books, pictures and music, the last in the form of gramophone records dealing with the opera or other subject of music dealt with. From the address by the tutorial organiser here lately, it .is conceivable that these classes can be made both instructive and interesting. The course appears to be very adaptable to communities removed from the centres, and should appeal particularly to the rising generation who have a unique opportunity of improving their minds, and becoming familiar with tne great masters m art, and an instructive knowledge of their works. Study is always of value as a means to . enlarge the outlook and to appreciate the fuller what they may be to see and bear. The local achievements by many of our young folk suggest that there is much latent talent in our nidst, and the W.E.A. course or system provides scope for using that talent to the better advantage. Parties of young folk who may join up for study in the direction indicated, could meet together weekly and the intercourse would be very he'pful to them. The fact that the scheme is under the personal direction of Professor Shelley is proof that it will be well ordered. The Professor has an intimate knowledge of art and a very clear and interesting way of imparting his knowledge and those who care to attend the classes would enjoy a special privilege not otherwise obtainable. Tn conjunction with competition work these classes .should be of special value to those participating, so that really there should not bo any

lack of, students. It is understood one of the local girls’ guides will be forming a circle, and there is every reason to expect others to organise and jqin up. The offer is an exceptional one, and being free, is in keeping with the general national system of education. The proposal is so generous and so inviting that there should be no difficulty about organising several community circles locally. ,