WESLEY COLLEGE

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 50, 21 May 1927, Page 15

WESLEY COLLEGE

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL A GENEROUS GIFT Although at the present time recognised as one of the leading schools in the Dominion, Wesley College, at Paerata, has now considerably increased its status as a secondary school by the establishment of a modern hospital complete with all modern conveniences. This has been made possible through the generosity of Mrs. W. H. Smith, who has erected and furnished the building at her own expense, the gift being regarded as a tribute to the memory of her nephew, William Henry Caughey, who gave his life in the great war. The opening ceremony will be performed by the donor on Saturday afternoon next, when, in addition to addresses by the Hon. G. Fowlds, president of the University College Council, and Mr. H. P. Caughey, chairman of the Board of Governors, a memorial tablet will be unveiled by Professor Ranston, M.A.. Uitt.D., president of conference. At the service the Rev. G. Bond, Rev. F. T. Harris (College chaplain) and the Rev. E. Drake will also assist, and an address of welcome will be delivered by Mr. R. C. Clark, M.A., principal of the college. One of the difficulties experienced at the college in past years has been the isolation of infectious sickness, but through Mrs. Smith’s generosity this will now be obviated. The building, which cost approximately £2,000, is constructed in brick and consists of an isolation ward, sun verandah, dispensary, nurses’ quarters and kitchen accommodation, and is furnished and equipped on the latest and most efficient lines.

Medical equipment is now a very necessary adjunct to a modern college, and the establishment of such a department at Wesley College will undoubtedly be very much appreciated by parents. The college fees are nominal, as the object of the board is to provide a sound education to boys, both of the native and European race, who otherwise would be unable to obtain the advantages of a good secondary education. Provision is also being made to provide similar advantages to orphans and needy children. "The opening ceremony will take place at 2.45 p.m., buses leaving the General Post Office at one o’clock and returning 4 vor.