WEST END SCHOOL.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1922, Page 6

WEST END SCHOOL.

BREAKING-UP CEREMONIES. THE PRIZE LIST. Although the pupils will not disperse for the Christmas holidays until Wednesday, the annual breaking-up and prize-giving ceremonies in connection ■with the West End school were held yesterday. The ceremony for the infant department was held at the school in the morning, when Mr. Jas. Garcia (chairman of the school committee) presided. A good number of the mothers and friends of the children were present and were briefly welcomed by Mr. Garcia, while a pretty little welcome song was rendered by the children. The prizes were distributed by Mrs. Garcia, who also handed to every one of the children a small Christmas gift in the shape of a gaily-colored book. During the morning the children also rendered the songs “Loyalty,” “New Zealand.” “Jingle Bells,” and “Santa Claus,” and, on the call of Mr. Garcia, gave three chef,s for Miss Mynott (headmistress) and their teachers, to whom Mr. Garcia tendered the thanks of the parents for the way in which they had looked after the children under the most difficult circumstances regarding accommodation. The singing of the National Anthem closed the proceedings. CEREMONY FOR THE STANDARDS. The ceremony for the standards was held in the Empire Theatre, in the afternoon. The chair was again occupied by Mr. Gari cia, and associated- with him on the plat--1 form were Mrs. Garcia, the Mayor (Mr. F. lE. Wilson), Mr. S. G. Smith, M.P., fneml bers of the committee, and Mr. D. P. Evans > (headmaster) and the school staff, while the gallery was well filled with parents and friends of the pupils.

The proceedings were opened tyith a song by all the pupils, “Farewell to Study,” followed by “Hawaiian Bluebird,” with a few dance steps, rendered by Maida Jones Connie, Olive Ericksen and Ella Thomson. In the course of his remarks, Mr. Garcia expressed the thanks of the staff and the committee for the splendid attendance of parents, which showed the interest they took in the welfare of the children and their education. It was not necessary for him to apologise to those present for bringing them to the Empire Theatre, as the attendance that day showed that they had outgrown the gymnasium. He would like, however, to congratulate the Educat on Board, and especially Mr. Smith, for the way in which they had worked for the whole of the province. They worked under difficult circumstances, and it was pleasing to know that the needs of New Plymouth were being realised by the Education Department. Mr. Garcia referred to the building of the new infant school in Courtenay Street, the additions to the Fitzroy School, the contemplated school at Moturoa, and the grant for the Westown site. His committee had been endeavoring to have certain very necessary improvements effected at the West End School, and, with the aid of the Education Board, he thought they were now within very reasonable distance of obtaining what they wanted. The committee had had a very busy year and they thanked the parents, staff and scholars for the wayin which they had assisted in the various functions which had been organised for the school. The picnic at Ngaere had been a success, and the committee intended to organise another one early in the coming year. Mr. Garcia paid a tribute to the work of Mr. Evans, as headmaster, and congratulated him* and the staff on the excellent •report which had been made on the school, which was especially gratifying when the many disabilities under which they labored owing to overcrowding were remembered. One very pleasing feature was that of the 59 pupils who sat for the examinations to pass them out of the Sixth Standard, 58 obtained proficiency certificates and the other a competency. (Applause.) Mr. Garcia concluded by wishing the children a merry Christmas and a happy new year. After congratulating the school on the large number of proficiency certificates they had obtained, the Mayor said that he wished to speak particularly to the boys and girls who would be leaving this year. They would become probationers, as it were, in the city life of the town, and would be starting in the primary class to go through the main portion of their fives as citizens of New Plymouth. Some of them would, perhaps, go aw r ay, but the main body would remain in New Plymouth, and he urged them always to remember to do their duty. They had often heard that New Plymouth was going to become a big town, but it would not unless the boys and girls grew up fit and ready to take the place, when the time came, of their elders. “You may well congratulate yourselves on what you have done this year,” Mr. Wilson concluded, “but what will you be able to show next year? That is the point to remember; so, whatever your hands find to do, make up your minds to do it with all your might.” (Applause.) Mr. Smith also congratulated the school on the number of proficiency certificates that had been obtained, and said that in all his experience in educational matters he had 1 never heard of such a record in any other ; school. Referring to improvements and school buildings, he said that the Education Board had tried to do something for West End, but they had not been able to

do all they wanted to do. He drew attention lo the provisions made by the present and past Governments for boys and girls to go on to the secondary schools, and he urged dl those who were leaving the school this year - to remember that they would be the leaders of the future, and advised them to fit themselves for their tasks. During the afternoon the ■ part-songs, “Way Down the Swanee River,” “Oberon,” “Sweet and Low,” and “Hush Thee, M,v Baby,” were pleasingly rendered by the pupils of Standard VI, while solos were contributed by Emily Hoyle (‘Pretty Kitty Kelly”) and Ella Thomson (“The Fairy Artist”), the latter young lady also being associated with Connie Ericksen in the duet “Just a-Wearyin’ for You.” All the young singers were vociferously encored. The prizes were presented by Mrs. Garcia, cheers for Mr. Evans and the staff, Mr. and Mrs. Garcia, and for Mr. E. H. W. Rountree (master of Standard VI), and the singing of the National Anthem, bringing the ceremony to a close. HEADMASTER’S REPORT. The annual report of the headmaster (Mr. D. P: Evans) was as follows: That the school is popular in its own district is evidenced by the loyal support and hearty co-operation of the public in the numerous appeals that have been made for its advancement, and we offer to ail who have asv*, b»tb *T “*• internal and external

management of the school, our deepest gratitude. The roll number during the last two years has increased rapidly, necessitating the appointment of three additional assistants. This rapid increase has led to serious congestion In some of the classrooms, making the work of the teachers even unore arduous than it otherwise would have been.

Staffing.—Again I have to report frequent changes in the staff. At the commencement of the year Mr. M. Smith (temporary third assistant), Miss Helen Tracy (Canadian exchange teacher), Miss M. E. Hodder (temporary ninth assistant). Miss I. Jones (probationer) and Misses A. M. Olson and S. Lawrence (pupil teachers), joined us. In March Miss D. E'. Sharp, a teacher with special training in infant work, was added to our strength. Miss Tracy left for Australia in July. During the same month Misses Corner and Giddy took up relieving duties. On August 1 Mr. S. J. King, of Kumeroa, Hawke’s Bay, commenced duties as permanent third assistant, and in September Mrs. Russell, of St. Clair, Dunedin, was appointed fourth assistant. Frnm the above changes it will be observed that the organisation of the school has "been seriously affected. Nevertheless the teachers of the staff, one and all. rose nobly to the occasion, and by their loyalty, hearty co-op-eration, and strict attention to duty have produced results well nigh impossible. Sports—-Even under these trying conditions the sports’ side of the school life lias not been neglected, and I have to thank Mr. Rowntree. sportsmastcr, for the splendid services ho has rendered at considerable self-sacrifice. Swimming.—The school was successful in retaining the Western Shield for girls, and the McHardy Shield for boys. A large number of pupils gained certificates of merit, of proficiency. or lea'rner’s certificates. In fact, in numbers of certificates gained in the Wanganui and Taranaki districts our school took second pla-ce. Queen’s Park school, Wanganui, holding premier position. Foothall.—ln football, the seniors fell back to third place in the North Taranaki competitions. one lad. Dalgarno. gaining representative honors. ' Unfortunately, owing to improvements being carried out at Western Park, we were debarred from practising on that ground, the only one available in the vicinity of the school. Hockey—Tn hockey our senior girls overcame all opposition, finally winning the North Taranaki junior competition. Cricket—For this year our boys have retained their hold upon the Whittle Shield for competition in cricket amongst primary schools of North Taranaki. We have to thank the Western Park Cricket Club for electing two of our hoys. Priar and Ewart, as honorary members of that club. We feel sure that their thoughtful action has resulted in added stimulus to this branch of sport. Gala Day.—This is of such recent occurrence that it needs only passing mention, out we should like to record our appreciation of the hearty support we have always received from that splendid organisation, the Kawaroa Park Committee.

School Work.—Two of our last year’s pupils. L. Tuffery and Venetia Madsen, were successful in winning junior national scholarships, the former topping the list for Taranaki. Another bov, Bailey, failed to qualify by five marks out of 800. At the recent proficiency examination our pupils acquitted themselves with conspicuous success, 58 gaining proficiency certificates and 1 a competency certificate, there being no failures. We extend to Mr. Rowntree our heartiest congratulations on his wonderful achievement.

Inspector’s Reports.—Despite the adverse conditions under which the teachers have worked, the inspector’s annual report on the work of the school was highly creditable to all concerned.

Physical Inspector’s Report.—Mr. Roydhouse, physical instructor, reported in praiseworthy terms on the work done In connection with this Important, branch of school duties. Medical Report—Dr. Gunn, medical officer, expressed her satisfaction with the general health, cleanliness, and tidiness of the scholars. It is a matter for regret that there is. among some parents, opposition to tooth-brush drill, but we trust that in the near future they will become converts to the new order of affairs Dalton Plan.—During the last year or two the public have heard much about the Da.ton plan as applied to teaching. With the senior scholars of standard VI. we adopted tne plan during the latter portion of the year Me found that the pupils vied with one another in their endeavors to complete their contracts, but are still doubtful as to benefits derived by the duller and less diligent scholars as in all classes of school work the success achieved depends entirely upon the “man behind the gun.” Though the plan encourages independence and self-effort among the scholars, it throws increased responsibility upon the conscientious teachers. Certainly inexperienced teachers should consider long and wisely their capabilities in respect to Its adoption before they yenture into the depths of uncertainty. . . Discipline.—The moral tone and diseip.tne of the school continue of a high standard, and we wish to thank those parents who have assisted us In .maintaining this standard, for without, proper and careful home training our endeavors in this respect are largely nullified Promotions.— Owing to a higher standard of examination and to frequent changes Hie promotions tor this year show a slightly lower percentage, hut we feel that we should oe seriously neglecting our duties by offering promotion to pupils who are not thoroughly qualified to undertake the work of a higher standard. To those who have not succeeded in securing advancement we extend our sympathy, and advise them not to be discouraged, but, by determination and zeal, to earn success the following year.

The Staff.—l cannot adequately express my appreciation of the splendid services rendey-d bv the staff throughout the year. Their enthusiasm, their zeal, their diligence, and their assistance in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the school are worthy of tho highest commendation. Particularly do I wish to express my deepest gratitude to them for the manner in which they have carried out their duties during the last month, when, during the busiest time of the year, they have been called upon to devote so much of their time and energy In preparation for gala 11 We extend our best thanks to the members, secrotarv and staff of the Education Board: to the inspectors; to the School Committee; and to the parents for the assistance and courtesy extended to us during the year. In conclusion, we wish one and all the compliments of the season, and trust that (he scholars will have an enjoyable unu profitable holiday. PRIZE LIST. ATTENDANCE PRIZES. Primer I.—Gwyneth Veale. Prbmer 2.—Thelma Goodacre. Hilton Lister. Primer 3.—Margaret Christensen, Elsie Royse, Grace Hoskin, Elva Hoskin, Esma. Young, Henry Cavaney, Hoyden Crombie, Sidnev Holdt, Will Jury, Bernard Lawn. Peter Mathieson, Irvine McGiven. Standard I.—Three years’ full attendance: Harold Yardley, Francis Van de Water. One year: Annie Cavaney. Joan Batten, Narcissa Baldock, Peggy McGiven. Muriel McKay, Maxine Mathieson, Catherine Royse. Charlie Bradford, Lewis Christensen, Bobby Dent, Ralph Gay ton, Norman Gilbert. Torrie .Toll. Standard 2.—Joy Bell. Ila Horne, Myra Blyde. Barbara. Colllnge, Maisie Saunders. Daisy Goodav. Alice Lawn. Percy George Jack Julian, Jack Crombie. Bazil Jury, Hector Mackinder. Jack Marr, Newton Inch. Standard 3.—Emily Hoyle, Avis Murphy, Barbara Stone, Dora Hodge, Kathleen Dailey, Alice Hawkes, John Wigg, Oswald Parker, Hugh Mackay. Eric Bensley, Highmour Lock, Frio Phillips, Frank Roper. Leslie Main, Gordon Jeffries. Andrew Connett. John Abram. Three years’ full attendant: Josephine Stone. Standard 4—Alice Garcia, Joan Coad. Linda Medlev. Violet Bowden, Nancy Gardner. Irene Jurv Lawrence Darby, Gordon Duff. ‘William Thomson, Harold Downs, Douglas Hoskin, Erin Nodder, Vialov Simmonds, .lames Gillies, Cyril Teff.lo, Norman Wright. Three rears full Maud Gilbert, Arthur Bell. Standard S.—lean Hawker, Olive Richardson. S«llS» Foot. Doris George, Alexander Bowie,

Elric Cox, Clarence Gilbert, Ronald Roper, Cecil Sorensen, Herbert Rielly, Edward Meredith, John Pratt, Herbert Cavaney. Ten yeans’ full attendance: William Baldock. Seven and a-half years’: Zelda Jury.

Standard 6.—Valda Mclndoe, Olive Erickson, Bona Lewis, Beryl Lobb, Phyllis Berridge, Eileen Morton, Christine Barnden, Thelma Stone, Vene Mullon, Caleb Hoyle, Ernest Murphy, Roy Priar, Argoyd Evans, Robert Knott, Kenneth Harvey, Ronald Christensen, Eric Lash, William Barnett. Three years’ full attendance: Nellie Simmonds, Fred. Bensley. CLASS PRIZES. Primer I.—Girls: Zelda Harnett 1, Mavis McKay 2. Boys: Edward Christensen 1, William Phillips 2. Primer 2.—Girls: Polly Hapara 1, Nancy Julian 2. Boys: Raymond Lister 1, Colin Thompson 2. Improvement: Ernest Baldock, Leslie Mclntosh. ' Primer 3.—Girls: Margaret Christiansen 1, Elsie Royse 2, Marjorie Urry 3. Boys: Matthew Keenan 1, William Forbes 2, Frank George 3. Every other primer child received a book. Standard I.—Bobby Dent 1, Myra Rogers 2, Leonard Lobb 3, Mickey Skipper 4. Progress: Dulcie Moffit, Gorden Coad. Neatest work: Olive Buckman, Gordon Stevens. Good conduct : Joan Carter, Irene Julian, Esmond Molloy, Earl Bailey. First in third term : Leslie O’Donnell. Sewing: Gwendoline Bruce. Standard 2.—Joy Bell 1, Daisy Gooday 2, Maisie Saunders 3, Violet Johnstone 4. Progress : Don Lobb, Barbara Collinge. Neatness: Gwen Hay. General helpfulness: Bernard Plumb. Sewing: Myrlie Dunn. Standard 3.—Josephine Stone 1. Barbara Stone and Hugh Mackay (equal) 2, Emily Hoyle 3, Jean Charters 4. Coimposition : Emily Hoyle, General helpfulness: Nellie Carter, Arthur Gore. Mental arithmetic: Kathleen Dailey.

Standard 4.—Lawrence Darby 1, Malcolm McGrath 2, Alice Garcia 3, Paul Sowerby 4, Edith Garcia 5, Gordon Duff 6, Arthur Bell 7, Irene Christoffel 8. General Usefulness: Victor Simmonds. Improvement: Norma Beal, James ’Johnstone. Diligence: Annie Medway, Leo Hains. Progress: Mildred Lawn, Cyril Dingle. Arithmetic . (Mr. Garcia’s special) : Gordon Sole. Sewing: Edith Garcia.

Standard s.—Bruce Bell 1. Peter Ewart (Mr. Avery’s special) 2. General improvement : Conrfie Erickson, Betty Broome, Stella Jensen, Vida Lister, Doreen Anderson, Zelda Jury, Keith Whitehead, Leonard Charp, Herbert Cavanpy, Jack Pratt, Frank Home, Bert Trueman, Cecil Sorensen. Howard Coad, William Baldock, Alec. Hay, Clem. O’Dowda, Albert Robinson. Sports prize: Jack Morris. Sewing: Nora Smith.

Standard 6.—Christine Barnden 2, Valda Mclndoe 3, Hoyle 4, Thelma Stone 5, Ellie Ahram 6, Williami Parrott 7, Norman Hill 8. Margaret Watkins 9. Progress: Roy Harris, Gwen Gibson, Winifred Carr. Diligence : Beryl Lobb, Olive Ericksen, Doreen Ambury. General usefulness: Eric Lash. Sports prizes: Boy (donated by E. Roper), Jack Ewart; girl (donated by Mrs. Mullon), Elizabeth Johnstone. Sewing: Nellie Simmonds. Dux of School.—Alexander Scott.

Proficiency Certificates.—Raymond Bailey. Ernest Bailey, William Barnett, Frederick Bensley. Ronald Christensen. James Dalgarno, Trayton Darby, John Ewart, Charles Frost. Kenneth Harvey, Roy Harris. Norman Hill, Charles Hodge, James Holmes, Trevor Hoskin, Caleb Hoyle, Robert Knott, Eric Lash, Allan Mac Kay, Hector McLean, Percy McMahon, Ernest Murphy, William Parrott, Norman Pelham, Roy Priar, Ec’ward Roper, Alexander Scott, William Thomson, Stanley Watson, Charles Bartholomew, Alexander Dunn, James Thomson, Victor Standring, Ellie Abram, Doreen Ambury, Christine Barnden, Phyllis Berridge, Eurntce Brokenshire, Winifred Carr, Ivy Duffin, Eileen Day, Eunice Edgecombe, Olive Ericksen, Gwendoline Gibson, Ida Gilbert, Elizabeth Johnstone, Mary Jeffries, Gladys Kruse, Rona Lewis, Beryl Lobb, Leila Martin, Valda Mclndoe, Eileen Morton, Vene Mullon, Olga Petersen, Nellie- Simmonds, Thelma Stone, Margaret Watkins, Mary Williams.