PUKEKOHE TECHNICAL SCHOOL

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 6, Issue 338, 14 December 1917, Page 2

PUKEKOHE TECHNICAL SCHOOL

Exhibition of Work Unfortunately the inclement weather somewhat marred the pro* ceedings in connection with the exhibition of work held at the Pukekohe Technical School on Tuesday last. Elaborate arrangements had been made for the function to take place outside in the school grounds but owing to the heavy downpour of rain these had to be hastily aban- , doned and the proceedings were necessarily carried out in the school, where the accommodation was somewhat restricted. Parents and others interested in education were present in good force together with senior pupils from Pukekohe, Drury, Mauku, Patumahoe, Tuakau, Met] cer and Pokeno schools. Mr Frank Perkins, the Chairman of the Pukekohe School Committee, at the outset welcomed the visitors and expressed his pleasure at seeing so many present The National Anthem was then heartily sung and Master Leslie Koadley, charmingly attired as a Herald, next announced that the new flag made by the Technical School girls would be presented to the * school The scholars carrying out this ceremony were artistically dressed representing various countries, viz: Misses Mungall and Graham (England), Armstrong and Wood (Scotland), Lysnar and Arden (Ireland), Marjorie Perkins and Wilkinson (New Zealand), the Misses Hayward and Bindon acting as pages. After the reception of the flag by the Headmaster (Mr Flavell) the Chairman in an interesting address spoke of the local Committee's work on behalf of the scholars and the Committee's programme of education in Pukekohe for the future. Referring to the progress made, he paid tribute to the teachers who displayed so much interest in the scholars' work and he appealed to the parents to encourage their children in their studies. With regard to the High School he expressed a hope that scholars would embrace all the opportunities offered for their advancement and make themselves thoroughly equipped for their future life. Speaking to the parents, the Chairman alluded to the rapid strides being made in technical education and urged all parents to see that their children regularly attended the well equipped technical school. " After War Problems " was the title of an interesting address by Mr McNaughton (Manurewa), which was much appreciated. A pleasing presentation of a fountain pen was then made to Mr J. 8. Johnston (woodwork instructor) by Mr McNaughton on behalf of the boys and girls of the Technical School. In making the presentation Mr McNaughton referred to the diligence displayed by Mr Johnston and the students, he said, wished him to accept the gift as an appreciation of his many efforts for their advancement. Mr Johnston suitably replied. The chairman, on behalf of the School Committee and scholars, next presented Mr J. Pilkington, who is shortly leaving the district, with a handsome silver hot water jug, suitably inscribed, as a mark of esteem and appreciation of his services as secretary of the Pukekohe Bchool Committee for many years. In making the presentation Mr Perkins spoke of the keen interest always shown by Mr Pilkington in education and to the valuable services rendered by him in connection with the school.—Mr Pilkington replied, stating that all his associations with the Committee had been such as to make his work a pleasant one. Interesting addresses were delivered by Mr W. G. Graham on " The Farmer and Technical Work," by Mr Jas. Graham on '• The marvellous work of the hand," and by Mr Pay on " The artistic development of the child," whilst Mr J. 8. Johnston delivered an address on " The Foward Movement." During the afternoon the visitors found much interest in admiring the various exhibits made by the students attending the Technical School, the room being crowded. Afternoon tea was served by many * willing workers and altogether the function was a distinct success despite atmospheric drawbacks.