1926:
4th February. The opening day of this school 14 pupils were present – 7 boys and 7 girls.
5th February. A cold stormy morning. 3 pupils absent. Isobel Cooper has broken her glasses and may not be at school for a few days.
I am in temporary charge.
E.M. Gunn (temporary Sole Charge).
8th February. Admitted Mary and Kebbel Kirkaldie. They have been receiving private tuition. From their work today I have placed Mary in Standard IV and Kebbel into standard I.
26th February. Received a wire from the Education Board today stating that my relieving engagement terminated today. I have had a very pleasant 3 weeks. The children are very well behaved and eager to learn.
E.M. Gunn
2nd July records – Alfred Cowles Inspector.
A number of children have been absent with influenza, so attendance is not very good. The Inspector visited many of the absent pupils.
12th July. 2 new boys from Ohau School have been admitted to this school. Donald and Phillip Small. I have no pupils above Standard IV.
2nd August. Miss Margaret Fitzpatrick, commenced duty as Relieving Teacher in the temporary absence through illness of Miss Brand. All children were present all day.
6th August. The weather has been rough and stormy all week, but the children have attended very well.
20th August. The school closed this afternoon for the winter term holidays. Several parents attended the breaking up. The children sang 2 songs and recited the poetry they had learned in school, afterwards cheering for the holidays. The proceedings terminated with “God Save the King” and the saluting of the Flag.
Miss Margaret Fitzpatrick terminated service in this school today.
6th September. As Miss Brand, Head Teacher, had been unable to return on account of continued illness, Miss Fitzpatrick has resumed duty as relieving Teacher. The attendance had been very good. Average 15.
17th September. One boy, Donald Small, has had an accident to his knee and will not be able to attend school for some time.
8th October. Miss Margaret Fitzpatrick terminated service in this school today.
15th October. Miss Brand has resumed duties as Head Teacher.
5th November. As many of the children were to attend the local show at Palmerston North, the school was given a holiday.
The attendance this week has been exceptionally bad as the weather was cold and wet and the children have bad colds.
26th November. The pupils have completed their Term Examinations. The examination papers on the whole were well done, and all the pupils passed, several have done especially brilliant work.
16th December. The pupils were dismissed half an hour early this afternoon so that preparations could be made for a breaking up treat given them in the evening. The treat was in the form of a Christmas Tree and all the children had a splendid time.
17th December. The school broke up today for the Christmas holidays. Four of the children gained good attendance certificates. The Roll number at the end of the term was 17.
1927:
1st February. The school opened today, there being present 7 girls and 7 boys.
Two pupils contracted ringworm during the holidays.
7th February. One boy is away today to the Levin Hospital in order to have his tonsils removed.
14th February. A circular regarding the visit of the Duke of York arrived, but pupils from this school are unable to attend as there is no conveyance.
16th February. One pupil absent from school with a bad boil.
5th March. A holiday was given for the visit of Duke and Duchess of York.
18th March. School picnic held, had a very enjoyable day.
25th April. (Anzac Day). School to be closed, and service held in the school at 11.30 a.m. and the Rev. Crockett of Levin to give an address.
29th July. Three pupils from one family have left and gone to Palmerston North. This leaves the Roll number 7 girls and 7 boys, total 14.
13th August. Two of the duller pupils have worked hard and show great improvement.
16th September. One boy and one girl admitted. Roll now 16.
30th September. One boy and one girl absent owing to outbreak of mumps in the family.
1928:
3rd February. The school opened for this year with 5 boys and 6 girls being present.
5th March. One girl has been admitted and entered upon the register. This is the only new pupil so far this year.
27th March. One pupil is absent today, being sent home yesterday seemingly ill.
Owing to the removals the number on the Roll is now 9.
29th May. The Chief Inspector, Mr. Strachan, attended the school this afternoon, all pupils were present.
9th July. Another girl in the primer classes was admitted and placed on the Roll today.
10th October. The Inspector visited the school today. One pupil sat for his proficiency examination.
1929:
4th February. The school opened today there being 4 girls and 2 boys present, making the Roll number 6.
21st March. The school was visited by Doctor, and the pupils examined.
5th April. Miss Ellaway Page commenced duty as Relieving Teacher.
4th June. Miss Doris N. Shepherd commenced duty as Sole Teacher.
14th June. An infant girl was admitted and added to the Roll which now stands at 7, 2 boys and 5 girls.
17th June. A severe earthquake was experienced.
10th September. Another boy added to the Roll making 7, 2 boys and 5 girls.
20th December. School broke up for 6 weeks holiday. A Christmas Tree and Children’s Party held on Friday evening, each child received a present from the tree.
Two children Ken and Valerie Stratton received good attendance certificates.
1930:
3rd February. The school reopened with a Roll of 9.
A new infant pupil joined the school.
21st February. The school picnic was held at Otaki Beach. About 45 parents and pupils attended.
All the children attending the school received a book for good work. The Roll now stands at 6 as several pupils have left the district.
7th March. Two Denton children were added to the Roll.
A new broom was received from the Committee.
10th July. Observed as a holiday owing to the death of Sir Joseph Ward.
28th July. There was a snow storm.
4th August. There was a severe storm and gale and only 2 pupils were present.
20th August. Mr. Lawton visited the school and gave his report thus – ‘This is a very small school with up to Standard IV. They have a small garden and do fair work for such young pupils. The indoor nature story is well taught. The children talk readily and are quite at their ease with strangers. A talk was taken on spring flowers including Jonquils, Polyanthus, Narcissi and Snowflakes. No recommendations were considered necessary.’
28th November. Marjory Steptoe admitted and added to Roll.
On Friday Lorna Stratton took her calf to be judged at Ohau School in Calf Club and won a second prize.
18th December. The following report was received from the Inspector. ‘The children are well behaved and work carefully. Attendance is very good. The teacher prepares her work with great care. Writing and singing are very good. Composition and nature are good. Number work in Standard I and II is below average. Work on the whole is good. The building and grounds are in very good order.’
1931:
10th April. Ken Stratton returned after 9 weeks absence with appendicitis.
25th May. School reopened with an attendance of 8 pupils and Mary McKinlay as Teacher in charge.
12th June. Two pupils received corporal punishment this week. Jean ---- 4 hits on hand with ruler; and Alison ---- 1 hit on hand with ruler. In both cases the punishment was for deliberate disobedience. The first case being much the worst.
18th June. Received letter from H. Jones, Esq., of Levin School in reference to Bible in Schools question and answered same.
24th September. A visit was paid to the school this morning by an agent of the Tung Oil Company. He spoke to the children in a very interesting manner, telling them some very interesting facts relative to the Tungement and Oil extracted from same. He also told some very interesting and amusing facts about China, its people and its customs.
1932:
1st February. The school opened today for the first term with an attendance of 7 pupils.
The Salvation Army Captain used the school room for services on Friday evenings.
5th August. One pupil has been absent for 4 half days suffering from severe pains in the head.
17th August. Three pupils have been enrolled this week.
5th September. The school reopened today following the term holidays with an attendance of 12 pupils.
12th September. Another pupil admitted making a total attendance of 13 children.
7th October. One pupil is absent with chicken-pox.
2nd November. Teacher in charge (relieving) Reina A. Lemmon. Miss Mary McKinlay having been transferred to appointment at a Wellington school.
28th November. One boy away from school being ill as a result of accident in the playground while playing leap frog.
1933:
1st February. The school reopened today with an attendance of 15. One pupil was absent owing to an injury received to her arm. Four new children have been admitted today.
10th February. Ron ---- strapped for disobedience – repeated occurrence of ignoring rules and misbehaving in class.
16th February. Bill ---- strapped for wilful disobedience repeated warnings re climbing trees at school.
9th March. Bill ---- strapped twice for 1 disobedience – 2 insolence.
5th May. Records – My period of engagement at this school is now over and I have had a very happy time.
R. Lemmon. 5/5/33.
22nd May. School opened this morning for 2nd term with an attendance of 16 – 7 boys and 9 girls. One admission. With teacher in charge, Mrs. A.D. Dring.
E.M. Twentyman seems to have been in charge during the latter part of 1933 and early 1934. (No records available).
1934:
2nd October. School opened this morning 15 children being present and Mr. Neas in charge. (He states) – a very wet morning no doubt accounted for so many being absent. The children have made a good impression on me.
19th October. I am trying to foster a liking for games amongst the children. Today the girls played the boys at rounders and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
18th December. Breaking up ceremony and the visit of Father Christmas.
1935:
5th February. School opened today with 17 pupils.
18th February. With the aid of working bees of residents of the district a tennis court has been made and wire netting erected.
25th April. A service of commemoration of Anzac was held in the school at 11 a.m. Addresses were given by the Rev. Davies and Mr. R. Gibbons (R.S.A.).
9th May. A special holiday was declared by the Chairman of the School Committee in connection with the Jubilee Celebrations. In the afternoon all the children were taken in private motor cars to Jubilee Matinee at the Levin Picture Theatre.
27th April. The Social Committee, which has been collecting funds by a series of entertainments have at the suggestion of the teacher, presented the school with a basket ball.
9th September. Three new pupils admitted.
22nd October. Mr. E. Partridge, School Inspector, spent the afternoon at the school. Copy of his report – ‘Classification is sound, all official records are in order, and term examination work has been assessed on a good standard.
‘Under the capable and sympathetic instruction of Mr. Neas the pupils of this school are making very pleasing progress, the general efficiency showing distinct advance and being now rated as good. While all subjects are well taught, special reference might be made to the interesting treatment of Geography and the skilful correlation of Handwork with other studies. Recitation is very good.
‘The order and discipline are excellent and a splendid tone is being developed. Very fine work has been done in the grounds, and it is gratifying to note the keen interest the pupils are taking in improving the school environment. The teacher’s lead in this direction calls for warmest commendation.’
18th December. Tonight at 8 p.m. visit of Father Christmas and the usual ceremonial appropriate to the occasion.
1936:
3rd February. School opened today with 16 pupils present. Yesterday’s gale wrought much havoc in the district. An uprooted tree has crushed one lavatory while the other was overturned. A few sheets of iron on the roof of the school building have been loosened. At the residence the washhouse building was overturned and part of the front fence was demolished.
2nd February (sic). Mr. Powell accompanied by Mr. Myers inspected the damage at the school and the residence.
Last evening Mr. Colquhoun, Mr. Trueman and Mr. Peterson hauled the girls lavatory into position. Their action is worthy of commendation.
Today carpenters erected a temporary convenience for the boys. Mr. W. Waters is engaged cutting up and clearing away the fallen trees.
3rd March. Makare ---- received corporal punishment for persisting in untruthfulness.
11th March. The annual school picnic was held at Buller Lake. Relics of Te Rauparaha were observed.
8th August. Mr. D. McCaskill, Senior Inspector, inspected the school. Copy of report – ‘Under the thorough and stimulating teaching of Mr. Neas this school continues to produce very sound work. While efficiency is really good the quality of the instruction is excellent.
‘The methods in operation are very interesting and intelligent, very pleasing stress is laid on Handwork, while every pupil is working to capacity, a fine tone prevails while the pupils are very keen and responsive. It is a pleasure to inspect this school.
The interior and exterior environment are excellent. All official records are in order.’
1937:
1st February. School opened today with 21 pupils present.
15th April. Some concern was felt and expressed by some of the parents of the children attending school as to the possibility of infection of Infantile Paralysis in view of the epidemic.
After consulting with the Chairman it was decided to close the school.
8th August. Muhunoa East School played a football match and a basket ball match against the Ohau School teams at Ohau. (Result not recorded).
11th November. Mr. H.G. Johnson, Inspector of Schools, visited the school in the morning. Copy of report – ‘School records are in order. Under the earnest and capable guidance and direction of the teacher, who is endeavouring with a great measure of success to give his pupils a broad education suited to their capacities, this school continues to do good work. While formal subjects are being soundly taught by the use of up-to-date methods of instruction mention must be made of the various forms of Handwork being dealt with and the appearance of the grounds which are in fine order. The co-operation of the Committee is a pleasing feature. Order, tone and discipline are very good indeed, children revealing a good training in habits of courtesy and politeness.
The level of attainment is assed as good.’
24th November. Judging of calves and lambs took place at the school.
16th December. A large number of parents and friends were present at an “afternoon” at the school today. The spirit of the season was fostered by a visit from Father Christmas who distributed gifts to all children present.
1938:
1st February. School opened today at 9 a.m.
14th April. The Chairman of the School Committee presented 15 swimming certificates today. 13 learners’ certificates and 2 certificates of proficiency.
20th April. Through the generosity of the Tennis Club 26 books have been added to the school library.
6th May. School closed for the term vacation.
Teacher’s note:
‘This completes my term here in charge of this school. During the past three years and nine months I have had the co-operation of the parents so my task has been comparatively a light one. I have been fortunate in having a School Committee which has assisted me very much. My numerous requests have always been granted and I am not aware of any matter about which we have been at variance.
I commend the School Committee to my successor.’
W.O. Neas (Sole Teacher).
23rd May. The school re-opened this morning with 22 pupils present with J.H. Wilson in charge.
25th July. School closed in afternoon by Committee request as a mark of respect on occasion of funeral of Mr. Evans a prominent ex-member of School Committee.
5th September. The school opened for the third term with 24 pupils present, one pupil absent through sickness. Roll stands at 25.
19th September. School visited by Mr. Dwyer. The children spent the day in Mr. Kirkaldie’s bush in field work with Mr. Dwyer and teacher.
4th November. Mr. E. Partridge visited the school today.
6th December. School report to hand –
Copy of report – ‘Under its new teacher this school continues to function very smoothly and efficiently with pleasant teacher-pupil relationship and a general atmosphere of happy co-operation. Thoughtful modern methods are being skilfully and zealously applied with result that all classes are making sound progress and a good general level of attainment is being maintained. All activities are being well catered for and efforts are being made to liberalise the curriculum through verse-speaking, singing, projects and craft work while Radio and Library are playing their part. The grounds are in very attractive condition and provide a pleasant setting for the school. Order, discipline and tone are very good, and the general efficiency is rated as good.’
13th December. School visited by Mr. Dwyer to judge Home gardens. Alison Colquhoun received special commendation for exceptionally fine flower garden.
1939:
1st February. School opened today with 21 present. 12 boys and 9 girls. Number on Roll 23.
9th February. Mr. Dwyer visited the school and part of the morning and all afternoon spent with the children in the Kimberley Native Bush Reserve.
7th March. Children spent afternoon at Levin Baths swimming for certificates. 17 children can swim.
12th April. School opened after Easter. Two new children admitted.
30th September. Wireless set is installed in the school as result of the Social Committee’s activities in raising funds for same and to whom much credit is due.
7th November. The school was visited by official party from the Education Board.
1940:
6th February. School opened today. Roll 14. 5 girls and 9 boys.
28 /29 March. School closed as mark of respect for the death of the Prime Minister, Rt.Hon. M.J. Savage.
10th July. Teacher received advice from Education Board of transfer to Spring Creek to take place in August vacation.
23rd July. Brian Stratton suffered rather nasty head wound on colliding with post while playing football.
16th August. (Teacher’s note).
During the two years and three months I have been in charge of this school I have enjoyed whole hearted co-operation with Committee, parents and children. The children are well behaved and industrious and the school is particularly fortunate in having an enthusiastic and energetic Committee.
J.H. Wilson. 16/8/40.
3rd September. School re-opened for third term with 20 pupils present and with Relieving Assistant N.R. Shirley.
26th September. Three children sent home as elder member of the family has measles.
1941:
3rd February. Opened school; Roll 17 with C.G. Featonby in charge.
4th February. Three Haley children admitted. Roll now 20.
3rd March. Entered two McHardy children. Roll now 22.
18th July. Only 12 present owing to Whooping Cough epidemic seven being affected. So attendance for the term poor.
8th September. School re-opened for third term; attendance 20 with E.M. Wright (Relieving Assistant).
15th October. Harris children absent owing to measles. Trevor Rolston returned to school after four and half weeks absence due to injured finger.
17th December. School concert and Xmas Tree held in evening.
18th December. School closed for summer holidays.
1942:
2nd February. School opened 18 pupils present. Dawn Rolston was added Roll 18. 8 boys and 10 girls.
4th February. John Harris had nasty injury to his leg while playing in the field behind the school. John fell on a broken bottle cutting his leg in two places and had medical attention.
13th February. Alan Rolston away with swollen glands.
29th March. John Featonby admitted, Roll now 9 boys 8 girls.
8th April. Resumed duties. A.G. Featonby.
25th May. School re-opened, very wet, cold, southerly wind; only 6 present.
17th June. One family isolated owing to positive case of Meningitis.
25th June. Bad earthquake during the night some damage in school. Kept Standard VI and V boys to clear up, and sent the rest home. Chimney was down to roof level, wireless damaged, glass jar (science) and rain measuring cylinder broken, Methylated spirits spilt.
Residence: Inside and outside chimneys destroyed. Wash-house chimney broken, spouting damaged, leak in tanks.
1943:
1st February. School re-opened Roll 14. 7 girls and 7 boys.
20th August. School closed for the holidays. The duties of Mr. C.G. Featonby ended today.
6th September. School recommenced today with 14 on the Roll and Mr. W. Nix in charge.
10th September. School holiday was observed for Italian Capitulation.
18th November. Calf judging day: Ngaire Harris 1st, John Harris 2nd, Maureen Baldwin 3rd. Junior – Neil Rolston 1st (4 entries).
1944:
1st February. School opened with 12 on Roll and Miss P.H. Fullarton in charge.
1945:
28th January. Note – Visited my old school taught by me 1908-11; and welcomed by Miss Fullarton – present teacher.
B.H.T. Blake.
5th February. School opened with full attendance of 12 pupils 3 boys and 9 girls.
28th February. School picnic held in Mr. Gorrie’s bush; a most enjoyable turnout in beautiful weather.
22nd November. Calf judging day – 10 calves presented. The results were – Senior Care and Attention: Graeme Death 1st, Alan Rolston 2nd, Lynette Gibbons 3rd. Junior – Merle Rolston 1st, Dawn Rolston 2nd. Dairy Type: Graeme Death 1st, Alan Rolston 2nd, Lynette Gibbons 3rd.
1946:
Opening not recorded.
23rd October. A.A. Schools Patrol visited the school and talked to the children and showed films concerned with road safety.
21st November. Calf judging day – Mr. Aitkins Judge – results: Senior: Neil Rolston – Daisy 1st, Graeme Death – Lucky 2nd, Dawn Rolston – Judy 3rd. Dairy Type: Neil Rolston. Junior: Ann Rolston – Buttercup 1st, Merle Rolston – Buttercup 2nd, Lynette Harris – Peaceful Sally 3rd. Of the 12 children 11 had calves – all now are prize winners receiving a Certificate of Merit.
1947:
1st December. All schools throughout the North Island closed today because of outbreak of Infantile Paralysis.
1948:
1st March. Schools reopened normally 15 children on Roll.
4th May. Householders meeting held in school last night resulted in. Chairman: Mr. J.C. Thomson, Secretary: Mr. F. Rolston, Committee: Mr. M. Jepson, Mr. D. Rolston, Mr. E. Harris.
1949:
1st February. New term began 9 children on Roll.
29th March. Mr. Lewin brought a visitor from Queensland to see the school (no comments recorded).
5th September. Thomas Taylor commenced duty as Relieving Teacher. Full attendance of 13 children.
16th November. By permission of the Chairman the school delayed opening this morning until 10.30 a.m. to enable the teacher to attend the magistrate’s Court at Levin, to be sworn in as a “Justice of the Peace”.
16th December. Mr. J. Thomson, Chairman of School Committee visited the school and presented Dawn Rolston with her P.S.C. and gave the children an invitation to a Christmas Party in the school on Wednesday evening, December 21st.
Note: With the above record I close my relieving duties at the school. I have had the co-operation of parents and Committee in every way and the kindness shown has made my stay pleasant.
R. Taylor. 16/12/49.
1950:
The appointee did not accept the position but went into the R.N.A.F., so the Education Department asked Mr. Taylor to continue in charge pro-term.
6th February. Some children away with Chicken Pox and Whooping Cough.
31st March. Miss Thelma Harris commenced duties as sewing teacher.
5th May. Mr. Taylor completed the term as Relieving Teacher.
22nd May. The school opened with full attendance of 12 pupils and the newly appointed teacher Mr. J.D. Andrew.
10th August. All pupils visited the home of Mr. J.G. Rolston, to see his collection of Maori adzes, meres and other carving instruments. As the tools were handled and all questions about them answered, it proved a most enjoyable and instructive period. Don Black said “thank you” on behalf of the children.
19th September. The children planted a number of trees in the Native Section of the school grounds, these were Rimu (2), Kahikatea (2), Kauri (1), N.Z. Silver Birch (2), and Rewa Rewa (2).
19th October. The school visited the Industrial Centennial Exhibition, Wellington, three cars being used to transport the children to the Capital. Afterwards a planned visit was made to Adam Bruce’s Chocolate factory – quite well worth while – (no doubt each child had a taste). Some 40 minutes were spent too at the Museum, where we all enjoyed the carefully displayed collection in the Maori Section. Having studied Maori life this year, the children enthusiastically examined tools and buildings they had previously made and drawn.
29th November. The annual judging of animals in the calf and lamb competitions was held on the school grounds. Results – Calves: G.A.: David Thomson 1st, Trevor Harris 2nd, Dairy Type: Trevor Harris 1st, Lambs: C.A.: Lynette Harris 1st, Derek Thomson 2nd. The parents and friends then saw a display of the children’s work for the year – books, charts, handwork, art etc. Children were posted in charge of sections, to answer questions and give information. The new Film Strip Projector was then put into use and the film commented on, in part by Form II boys.
19th December. The annual school concert was held in the school in the evening. A Christmas Tree Party was held in conjunction with it, and was well attended.
15th December. Afternoon visit was paid to Agriculture Department’s Experimental Station [shown on right] on Kimberley Road. Both teacher and children cycling there. A very interesting and informative period was spent under the guidance of Mr. Richardson and Mr. Dobson. Apple tree growing and budding etc. were shown as well as development and propagation of brambles.
1951:
5th February. School re-opened with 9 children in attendance.
21st February. The school picnic was postponed owing to the death of Mr. Jepson Snr., a late resident of the district.
28th February. The school picnic was held on Mr. Marsh’s property with good attendance and an enjoyable day.
31st March. Gala Day was held in the school grounds, today, Saturday. The proceeds from stalls, dance and competitions amounted to £28 nett. A very fine attendance was seen on this most enjoyable day.
19th June. A delegation, formed of School Committee and one other member, called on the Education Board Secretary-Manager. Support was being sought for the plan of transporting children at Kimberley to our school to keep it from closing, and build up numbers. No support was given to the scheme.
3rd September. School opened for the third term.
Application by the Chairman of the Committee, to the Minister of Education, to have the children from Kimberley Road area transported here by bus, has been turned down. Continued efforts are to be made for this just cause.
17th September. Re deputation to Minister of Education. Two Committee Members went down to Wellington, in company with Committee Members from Levin School. After battling since April, it is now clear that the Department will not assist this school increasing its roll numbers to a workable level by transporting children from Kimberley. Though the parents in that area strongly desire their children to attend here. The £150 per annum required for transport will not be forthcoming.
28th November. The annual judging of calves and lambs in the School Competition was in the school grounds. Mr. A.M. Scott being the judge. Results were as follows:- Calves – Senior: Lynette Harris 1st, Ann Rolston 2ns, Derek Thomson 3rd. Junior: Valerie Newport 1st. Junior Type: Lynette Harris 1st. Lambs – Junior: Julie Thomson 1st, Helen Johnston 2nd.
11th December. Mrs. N. Jepson judged the garden plots. Results – Ann Rolston 1st, Brian Rolston 2nd, Derek Thomson 3rd.
1952:
4th February. School re-opened with 8 on the Roll.
7th February. News of the death of our King George VI came through this morning. On this sad occasion, schools were to close for the day.
24th March. The school visited the “Chronicle” office at Levin. To see the printing of a newspaper and then to the Post Office.
26th May. One new pupil enrolled.
17th December. The sealing of the Tennis Court was completed at a cost of £150. Metal etc. being additional.
1953:
2nd February. School opened with a Roll of 15, but many absentees convalescing after Whooping Cough.
16th April. The school made a visit to the Railway Station and to Crighton’s Saw Mill.
25th May. School re-opened, 2 new entrants. Roll now 18.
12th June. A new New Zealander, Mr. C. Dekker, from Holland, gave a full and well planned talk to the children on “farming in Holland”. The talk was illustrated with pictures and maps. Many questions were answered. Ann Rolston (F.II) thanked the speaker.
29th October. The senior pupils and those of Primer 4, visited the Kuku Dairy Factory [shown on right in 2007], where the process of testing milk and cream and making skim milk powder were shown. Later Magret Bakery was visited, and bread making was fully described.
25th November. Calf judging resulted in – Calves Section: Brian Rolston 1st, Ann Rolston 2nd, Derek Thomson 3rd. Dairy Type: Brian Rolston 1st, Junior: Valerie Newport 1st, Neil Jepson 2nd, Roger Andrews 3rd. Lambs: Wendy Blenkhorn 1st, Derek Thomson 2nd.
4th December. Finals of calf judging held at Levin East School resulted in Seniors: - Juniors: Valerie Newport (2nd C. & A. Horowhenua).
16th December. After full preparation the children presented their concert to an audience of parents. Children were in fancy dress.
17th December. Two Primary Leaving Certificates were given by the Chairman to Derek Thomson and Ann Rolston.
J.D. Andrew.
1954:
1st February. School re-opened Roll 17.
Royal Visit: On January 9th 1954, the children went by private cars to Paraparaumu Aerodrome, to see Her Majesty the Queen.
27th February. A successful Gala Day was held in the grounds when about £25 was raised for school funds.
11th March. A visit was made to Mr. Keegan’s woolshed to watch shearing etc. in reality. Then to Forster’s Knitwear Factory, Levin, to observe this wool made up into woolens.
6th April. Children attended a gathering in Levin Domain, it being the occasion of the Governor General’s visit to Levin.Photo on right shows Govenor General Sir Willoughby Norrie and Lady Norrie with H H Podmore (Mayor of Foxton).
21st May. Inspector’s report to hand.
‘This brings to an end, a very pleasant stay of 4 years at this school. During this period, with the co-operation of both Committee and younger residents, some really worthwhile alterations in grounds planning have been carried out. The sustained district effort on the construction of our tennis courts were a noble work. With the Rolls now established and continued parent cooperation, Mr. Holder should be able to look forward to a pleasant and progressive period in this school. I wish him a happy stay here.’
J.D. Andrew 21/5/54.
24th May. School re-opened after the holidays with a Roll of 16 and Mr. I.N. Holder in charge.
31st May. School closed until 2nd June on account of special leave of the Teacher to attend the funeral of his father.
18th November. Three new pupils were added to the Roll.
13th April. Relieving Teacher, Mr. J.A. Casey, took up duties while Mr. Holder was away on sick leave.
19th July. Enrolled two new pupils.
8th August. Enrolled one pupil Roll now 21, 12 boys and 9 girls.
16th December. The Relieving Teacher Mr. Casey finishes duties today.
1956:
1st – 12th February. School closed for this period owing to shortage of teachers.
13th February. The school was re-opened with Mr. P.R. Anderson as Relieving Teacher.
29th February. Relieving duties of Mr. P.R. Anderson ceased today. Roll now 18.
9th August. Rev. Lucas began this A.M. Bible Lesson after a long recess.
8th October. Mr. Holder commenced morning ½ day work taking over the infant department.
12th November. Mr. Finlay finished his relieving duties and Mr. Holder resumed full time teaching.
31st December. Rainfall for the year excluding January-February amounted to 55.51 inches.
1957:
4th February. School re-opened with 9 boys and 11 girls, total 20.
21st November. Result of livestock judging. Lambs Senior: Elizabeth Hook 1st, Junior: Valda Evans 1st, Malvyn Rolston 2nd, Gavin Wallace 3rd. Calves Junior: Judith Holder 1st, Valda Evans 2nd., Senior Ringcraft: Ross Evans 1st, Sydney Death 2nd, Valerie Newport 3rd. Senior Care and Attention: Sydney Death 1st, Ross Evans 2nd, Valerie Newport 3rd. Dairy Type: Valda Evans 1st, Ross Evans 2nd, Sydney Death 3rd. Newport Cup for best calf: Sydney Death.
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