CORONATION OBSERVANCE AT TAUPO SCHOOL

Taupo Times, Volume II, Issue 72, 3 June 1953, Page 1

CORONATION OBSERVANCE AT TAUPO SCHOOL

Commemorative Medals An impressive Coronation observan.ce was carried out at the Taupo District High School at 2.30 p.m. on Friday, May 29th, prior to which eacsh pupil had been given a commemorative medal, as a lasting moxnento of the ci'owning of Her Majesty Queen Eiizaoeth II. The children and stafFs of both Primary and Secondary Departments and a number of parents, assembled in front of the Secondary Department building, facing the flag-staff, the HeadmasteiV Mr J. R. Osborne, explaining that the ceremony was being held fo mark the Coronation. Following the singing of "God Defend New Zealand" the assembly stood at attention while the Senior Girl, Shona George, recited the following declaration: — "We give thanks for the privileges we enjoy as New Zealandei's and members of the British Cdmmonwealth of Nations: we honour the memory of all those who have served our country, we honour our Queen, obey the laws of her Govemment, and serve our country and our fellowmen." The flag* was then broken out by the Senior Boy, Robert Clark, the assembly remaining at attention for a brief but impressive silence. Mr Osborne then delivered a short address on the signihcance of the Coronation of Her Majesty, after which the first verse of the National Anthem was sung. Souvenir folders were then distributed. Following the ceremony a number of trees, provided by Mr Weekes, State Forest Service, were planted by pupils of the High School and one by Miss K. O. Lewis, on behalf of the High School Committee. The co mm.em oira ti ve medals presented to the children were provided by the School Gommitte.