Parkvale School Golden Jubilee 1919-1969
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EDITORIAL…
This Jubilee Booklet is an attempt to place on record, for the benefit of ex-pupils and teachers of Parkvale, and the school’s well-wishers, the highlights of its first fifty years of growth and development. The editor wishes to thank the people and institutions who assisted in the booklet’s compilation. Many omissions will, no doubt, be noted. Verification of all facts has been virtually impossible owing, largely, to the incompleteness of many of the records, much of the fault lying at the door of the 1931 earthquake. The editor apologies for any such errors which may lie at HIS door, and begs your clemency for his inadvertence. Special thanks are due to those who contributed paragraphs or articles; to avoid overlapping it has occasionally been necessary to alter wording slightly, but this has been kept to a minimum.
We trust that readers of this small booklet will not agree with Edward Gibbon in his Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, when he asserts that “History is indeed, little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.” While it touches lightly on such minor misdemeanors, the emphasis is rather on the day to day striving, the dedication, and the friendly working together which has been, over the years, so clearly the hall-mark of Parkvale.
No factual record exists of the “Hop Kiln” days, school records commencing with the opening of Parkvale in February, 1920. We are therefore, entirely dependent upon recollections of early teachers and pupils for such information as we have been able to trace. It may be incomplete, but, we trust, not distressingly so.
Particular thanks are offered to: – Head Teachers of the school who kept the Log Books. Lenders of early records and photographs. The Hawke’s Bay Education Board for ready access to files. Mr. F. Bromley for his advice and assistance in the layout of the magazine. Mr. W. Langford for his initial contribution to its design.
– THE EDITOR.
Congratulations…
In many walks of life we tend to identify ourselves with the successes of those closely associated with us. This is particularly true in the field of Education, where the teacher and the parents share the successes of pupils and the community shares the successes of the school. Again, just as families make their own unique contribution to the community, so too, do the schools. Parkvale School has certainly played its special role in the community, and this must be a source of pride to all associated with it. Clearly, in 1919, the founders of Parkvale did not regard education as something to be taken for granted and, just as clearly, education is as vital a topic in the community today as it was fifty years ago.
An anniversary within a family is as much an inspiration to the younger members as a commemoration of past successes. I am sure that the anniversary of a school such as Parkvale, with its close community ties, will be more than a celebration; it will be a stepping stone towards the growth, development and success of the future.
A. E. KINSELLA, Minister of Education.
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My first reaction after the Jubilee is congratulations to all who worked so hard to make your Golden Jubilee such a success. I thank you for your hospitality and kindness to Mrs Giorgi and to myself over the three days. The enthusiasm and happiness of old pupils meeting old pupils, and the noise and laughter were grand remedies for all.
I was given the honour of proposing the toast to Parkvale School, on the evening of the Dinner on Saturday night, but the happy chatter could not be stayed so the evening’s enjoyment went on, unmoved by a speech by me!
How delightfully named is Parkvale School – in park-like settings, with trees and shrubs surrounding the cosy red brick buildings. The history of your school is well known to you all, and needs no re-telling by me, but many of you have, like the old hops of the hop-kiln days, become matured and mellowed with the years. The Jubilee will add to your fond memories of Parkvale. My father, the late Mr. A. Giorgi, was secretary of Parkvale School Committee for some years, and my sister Zenda, attended in 1921-22, so I have some direct connection with your early days. I also had the pleasure of coaching and teaching some of you how to swim, and Mr. and Mrs. Roe were neighbours for some 20 years, he being Headmaster for 17 years.
I have spoken to Parkvale children on the significance of Anzac Day on many occasions, and on others, of the Kings and Queens of England. No mention, I think was made in the Jubilee speeches of Bill Davis, Parkvale son of a Parkvale father and Hawke’s Bay and All Black Rugby representative, of Miss Gladys Symes, Hawke’s Bay and New Zealand Athletic and Basketball representative, and of Tom Garrod, grand cricketer and golfer. These are only a few and I could go on and on; I must thank you for allowing me the pleasure of writing a few words for your Jubilee Magazine – well done Parkvale!
R. V. GIORGI, Mayor, City of Hastings.
Congratulations to the Parkvale School on the celebration of its Jubilee. To all who assembled it was a wonderful occasion. The function had been very well organized, the day was perfect and the crowds of people who came, everyone in his happiest mood, made the picture complete.
It is an exciting experience for a school, particularly for one which could assemble such a group of First Day Pupils. They came from far and near and were very busily engaged in finding out others of their own age groups so that old days could be recalled, and once again they could relive the scenes of the past, scenes which had lost nothing in the passing of the years.
May I add my best wishes to all who contributed to the success of the occasion.
L. R. LEWIS, Chairman, H. B. Education Board.
On behalf of the school Committee it gives me great pleasure to extend my congratulations to Parkvale on the success of the 50th Jubilee celebrations. All who attended the functions thoroughly enjoyed themselves, leaving with everlasting memories of a happy reunion with their old school pals. The untiring efforts of a group of ex-pupils dedicated to their old school was responsible for this outstanding success. Much hard work, planning and preparation were done by the Jubilee Committee and I am pleased to have this opportunity to express my thanks to them.
A highlight of the celebrations for my committee was the official opening of the Jubilee Hall. The hall has now been in use for eighteen months, proving an asset for modern education. The enthusiasm and efforts of parents, teachers, Home and School Association and committee, raised the $18,000 required for the hall, which I am sure you will agree is a fitting memorial to the Jubilee. We are indebted to ex-pupils whose generous donations helped with furnishings.
The committee extends its gratitude to all for their support and enthusiasm in promoting the 50th Anniversary Celebrations. On behalf of the Committee I wish Parkvale a successful and rewarding future.
C. R. DAVIS, Chairman, School Committee.
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THE STORY OF PARKVALE SCHOOL PAST AND PRESENT
The history of a community is, normally, the record of the reactions of people, who vary little from one generation to another, to their environment, which varies greatly, and even more than is customary over the last 50 years. When, however, the community concerned is centred in a building, and particularly in a building as sound and unchanging as Parkvale School, it is given stability and solidity which defies change. Apart from a few outstanding aims and achievements, a few changes of emphasis perhaps, the story of Parkvale today differs perhaps from that of half a century ago. Much has, of course, been accumulated in the way of material possessions; equipment and facilities are immeasurably improved. In essentials however, we must agree with the dictum that “there is nothing new under the sun”. We still hear the same promises and hopes; there are still accommodation problems; prospective employers still complain of teaching inferior to that of their own day! On the credit side, it is warming to find that Parkvale is still producing children of the same calibre as those of the past, and of whom it can be, and is, very proud – not those alone of high academic achievement, but those who, by their behavior, have bought credit upon their old school.
Prior to the erection of the main school in Howard Street in 1919 and its opening in 1920, the children of the Hastings East (Parkvale) area were associated with the Hastings District High School under the head-mastership of Mr. L. F. Peglar [Pegler]. Following a petition to the Minister of Education under the sponsorship of Mr. and Mrs. Lovell-Smith, a new school was planned for the Hastings East district, and building commenced in 1919. The infant children involved, who had been attending the much over-taxed Main School (Central) which had some 900 pupils, were housed in the old “Hop Kiln” building which belonged to the Masters Family, and was situated approximately on the site of the late St Barnabas Church in Selwood Road (now Windsor Avenue).
The great day dawned at last 19th February 1920, and Parkvale School was opened, unofficially, by Mr. Miller, Chairman of the School Committee “in the presence of a few parents”. The staff present to cope with the 203 pupils assembled were Mr. F A. Garry, Headmaster, Miss E. Sinclair and Miss McCormick – both temporary! Recent advocates of reduction in the size of the classes please note! Miss Price and Miss Drummond, however, joined the staff four days later, accompanied by 39 further children. After a few staff changes, a meeting was held a week after the opening and classes arranged as follows: – P 1, 2 and 3 – Miss Sinclair, assisted by Miss Drummond. S1 – Miss Castle. S2 – Miss Foster. S3 and 4 – Miss McCormick, assisted by Miss Armstrong. S5 and 6 – Mr. Garry.
At the first Committee Meeting held in March, Mr. Garry set the stage for a development for which Parkvale was to become noted in the years to come. He laid down plans for the school gardens, a project which embraced tree planting both in and outside the school environs, and lead eventually to the long run of H. B. Show successes to the credit of the school. Incidentally, the same meeting also arranged
Photo caption – LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS
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to open a school shop in town to raise funds for school purposes – these old habits die hard! However, the sum raised, nearly £100, which could be tripled by today’s standards, paid tribute to the interest of the public in the new school.
On 12th April, the Minister of Education, Hon. C. J. Parr, officially opened the school amidst a very large and enthusiastic gathering. A full description of this function may be found elsewhere in this magazine.
Perusal of the early records does little to support the proud Hawke’s Bay tradition of sunny days. Influenza, colds and whooping cough were prevalent, staff and children were declared absent with monotonous regularity until the arrival and celebration of Arbor Day, with the planting of 200 trees and shrubs, seemed to lift the blight.
Inspectors Strachan and Whetter visited the school for its first inspection on September 8th, and, to further complicate matters, the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Wilkins, also decided to visit the school on that day! The first annual picnic was held on December 14th, presumably to Beatson’s Park, later Windsor Park, and in those days rather a wilderness of wild trees and long grass.
1921 bade farewell to being an improvement on the previous year, weatherwise at least as the quarterly attendance average was 96 per cent. A “Fancy Fair” held in the Assembly hall to raise funds for school grounds, improvements realised £200-a very worthwhile effort, while £10 was raised at a Committee Social to furnish the Teachers’ Staff Room – the skeptical will note the disparity! Arbor Day found Limes planted on the front and east boundary – few remain today- and hedges around the orchard (?). Teachers of those days must have had considerable faith and trust in their charges, although an entry on August 4th describing the visit to the school of a constable investigating the misdemeanors of three boys hardly supports the belief. This year saw the beginning of the preparations for laying the large tarred area around the school. Limestone was spread prior to laying and a veil should be drawn over the language teachers must have used before this was covered. No fewer than 50 loads were spread. September 14th finds the name of Mr. T. A. Hill, contractor to the school, who completed the brick wall along Howard Street on that day. Bricklaying must have been an art to him; that his school and wall withstood the earthquake with little damage some years later, is his best recommendation.
On October 18th, Stds. 5 and 6 visited Mr. Paynter’s orchard in Havelock Road for instruction in grafting and other aspects of orchard work. This month also saw the first Religious Instruction in school under Messrs. McBean, Ewen and Adjutant Adams.
On April 5th 1922, Mr. Parr, accompanied by the local M.P. Mr. J. V. Brown, and members of the Education Board, visited the school in connection with a request for increased accommodation as the roll was now 322. Wooden floors were built into the shelters which have done yeoman service as very sub-standard class-rooms for many years.
On July 12th, the first Parkvale Old Pupils’ Reunion was held – a great success. What a business it must have been to get additional rooms built. July 31st reports a meeting of the school committee where it was announced that Government Debentures of £500 had been taken up to assist with the building of a new room! Arbor Day again – and the children subscribing to buy 50 trees which were planted in Howard and St Aubyn Streets. September 6th reports a generous offer by the Education Department to build a second extra room, provided the Committee raise another £500 in debentures! This was done too, believe it or not.
Mr. Beatson Snr. presented the school with 10 guineas which the Committee decided to utilise to build School gates – the present iron gates and brick pillars. The school was fortunate in its friends, as Messrs. R. and H. Paynter took the children of Stds 5 and 6 to Cape Kidnappers on December 9th. The scholastic side was not forgotten – of 18 candidates presented in 1922, 16 gained Proficiency and 2 Competency Certificates.
The early part of 1923 is noteworthy for the installation of the present heating system to replace the electric heaters which had proved most unsatisfactory. The headmaster’s recommendation to the Committee as to the spending of funds raised at a shop day included re-arrangement of horse paddock £12; saddle rack in horse paddock £5; horse trough £5; new gate for horse entrance £5. The school picnic this year was held at Waimarama thanks to Mr. R. Paynter, who lent his truck. The last note for this year will ring a familiar note – Zenda Giorgi won the Girls’ Cup for 1923.
In 1924 Parkvale lost Mr. Garry to Auckland after an invaluable 5 years service. His place was temporarily filled by Mr. W. J. Driller until the arrival of Mr. A. E. Day in June. Early records fairly abound with visitations – Inspectors, Nature Study Advisors, more Inspectors,
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School Doctors, Board Officials, even more Inspectors etc. One wonders how staff found time to get on with the work of the school!
February 1925 found the school closed by the infantile Paralysis Epidemic, with the staff in attendance to mark work sent in by those “keen” types. Lessons commenced in April and in the following month school closed for a day to mark the death of the P. M., William F. Massey.
We read of an assistant teacher being absent through a nervous breakdown and, on the next page of a complaint by a parent that his S.2 girl has been strapped with “6 cuts, then punched and thumped on the back” and of the teacher having shouted, “It’s a d….. good job you are leaving!” Colourful old days, to say the least, and one wonders whether children were more difficult in those times, or whether the teachers were just more outspoken! The 14th August saw the inaugural meeting of the Young Citizens’ League before a distinguished gathering and this was followed, in October, by a visit of their Excellencies Sir Charles and Lady Fergusson. Tuesday afternoon was a holiday – and Wednesday too as the school had to attend the Civic Reception in Cornwall Park!
In February, 1926, was appointed to the staff Mr. George Ruscoe, later to be Headmaster of Napier Intermediate and a greatly respected teacher wherever he has been. Mr. Edgar Hurdsfield, Nature Study Instructor, followed Mr. W. Morris on his appointment as Head of the St Stephen’s School in Auckland, and made the first of his many calls on 27th April – most old pupils will remember his kindly bulk.
Mr. George Lord assumed the mantle of Mr. Day in February 1928, and the following February brought Miss Mary Mayo to Parkvale. Miss Mayo, now the present Infant Mistress, has given much of her teaching life to the school. Swimming Carnivals were held it Beatson Park as the School Baths had not yet been built. The records show the many “Gardening Experiments” so dear to Mr. Hurdsfield’s heart, and closely following a “strip manorial experiment” (whatever that may have meant) the school baths were officially opened by the chairman of the Education Board, Mr. George Maddison, on November 12th.
1931, of evil memory, had scarcely opened when the earthquake struck at 10.48 a.m. on the 3rd February. Fortunately there were no injuries, and the only damage done to the building was slight fracturing to the road wall, and wall of main building, two pergolas, and a chimney. Miss Castle, a foundation teacher, left for Taradale in June, and Mr. Lord departed 12 months later to be replaced temporarily by Mr. V. Barton, and a few months later by Mr. W. B. Roe, on whom the effect of Parkvale must have been severe as he was absent with gastric influenza two days after his appointment!
The Swimming team was successful in retaining the Education Board Shield won the previous year, and in being runners-up to Mahora in the Combined Schools’ Competition. On August 18th, one of the school’s totara trees was planted in memory of Mr. Henry Hill, highly respected Inspector of Schools for many years.
Mrs. Chappell (14 years) and Mrs. Fletcher (7 Years) were farewelled in May 1934 – Parkvale has been renowned for the length of service of its staff – a good recommendation. Fire Drill was taken on June 15th with the comment “Time – 1 minute, too slow” how
Photo caption – PARENTS’ DAY 1931
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slow can you get? Measles accounted for 32 of a class of 38, and a “very wet day” saw 2 present in an infant room of 88!
Miss. E. MacDonald, Barnardo visitor, will be remembered by many as a regular caller until quite recently, and history comes to life with the name of Jean Batten, who addressed the school on August 3rd.
The first mention of the P.O. Savings Bank Scheme, by which hundreds of children have commenced the saving habit, is found on September 13th, and an entry on the debit side shows that vandalism – cutting of trees near the baths – is not confined to today. The year finishes with a visit by the Duke of Gloucester.
Loud rejoicing opened 1935 when the school was declared to be open only from 9-12.30 and the baths from 2-3p.m. Elation gave way to gloom, however, when normal hours were substituted on February 18th. Fire drill is now down to 30 seconds but still “too slow”. On October 10th school closed at 2 p. m. for the Hastings Central Rodeo – more horseplay we presume!
March 18th, 1936, saw the Napier Frivs giving the first of their helping hands to the school, and a week later, the first visit to Wattie Canneries – a small concern in those days.
The Harding Shield for swimming again came to Parkvale this year. Further visits to Woollen Mills, Harbour Works, Aerodrome, etc paved the way to the modern idea that education is not necessarily confined within school walls. A note on Jul 30th will find an echoing chord “Short lunch hour – no drill – close 2.15 p. m. – rep. Football match H.B. v versus Waikato.”
School closed hurriedly on December 15th owing to a further threatened outbreak of polio, a threat which developed over the holiday period and resulted in the closure of the school from March 15th to April 26th 1937. Coronation celebrations in May involved S3 – S6, but the remainder of the year appears to have been a long succession of wet days, cold, and consequent absences. The swimming results at the end of the year are interesting – 143 out of 407 could swim – the result would probably be much better today.
The opening roll in 1939 topped the 400 mark for the first time. It is noted that a deputation from the Board visited the school to inspect the “open-air rooms”. These were the first of their kind in Hastings, but the admitted so much of the air together with the birds thereof, that they were closed up of more recent years. How attitudes change – the record of Anzac Day shows that the address stressed that the day was sacred – “not for recreation”.
The Milk Scheme commenced with the consumption of 329 half-pints, but various further entries bewail “no milk today”
Accommodation difficulties are no new experience. On 2nd August “Miss Webb’s class, P2 returned to the open air shelter shed owing to the conveniences being unsatisfactory at the Church Hall!”
On 2nd November Parkvale took part in the first Schools’ festival – presumably the Music Festival which is still in operation.
School life must surely have been divorced from the world outside when the most momentously sad year in our history passed without mention of the World War. Apart from the usual stream of sickness and absence, coming and going staff, visits of officials and the like, the only apparent incident of note was a visit to the school of the Hon. [Honorable] Peter Fraser, then Minister of Education, but to become Prime Minister on the death of Mr. Savage within the year. Faint echoes of the war are heard in the visit to the school on 7th March 1940 of two petty-officers (un-named) of the Achilles – old boys, to speak to the children. Two publications are noted which were to be the veritable “bibles” of their subjects for years to come – the Nature Study and Science Scheme of Mr. Hurdsfield, and the 1933 Physical Education Manual.
A grandiose entry on the 9th August state “Rimu tree planted by Thelma Instone and Roland Wall – captains Form 2 – Centennial Tree (died)” – very laconic but decisive!
Although it happened a long time ago, one can still feel the fears of 1941 and 42 in the notes of the Evacuation plans and drills, how to take shelter behind hedge and trees, and the futility of it all seems more marked now.
Miss Kelt, now Principal of Hastings Girls’ High School, visited Parkvale several times in 1942 as Physical Education Inspector.
Photo caption – SOME STAFF MEMBERS – 1928-1930
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Anzac Day of 1943 found two representatives of the R.S.A., Messrs. Priest and Mackersey addressing the children, and, for the first time, a wreath made by Miss Bain laid on the Cenotaph by the Form 2 girls.
September saw the capitulation of Italy, celebrated at the school by an address, Flag Salute and cheers, and, what was probably dearer to the children’s hearts, a holiday on the following day by order of Hon. Peter Fraser.
Money, or rather lack of it, has always been the bane of school committee life. This was obviously no less true some years back than it is today. The records are full of references to Shop Days, Gala occasions, Sales of School vegetables, Concerts in aid, etc. Unfortunately the amounts collected have not always been noted but a fantastic amount of money must have been provided over the years.
November 5th was the first occasion noted of the Road Race for the Smith Cup – a House Competition won by Green House.
November of the next year notes a marathon day when concert rehearsals went on all day followed by the performance from 8 p.m. till 10.20 p.m. Everyone would sleep well that night.
On the 18th, Maurice Knuckey is congratulated for winning a King’s Scholarship tenable at King’s College, Auckland.
Many will remember Miss Benson, who commenced as Senior Assistant Mistress in March 1945, and who was to remain on the staff for many years.
The year’s outstanding news would, of course, be the Peace Celebration of August 15th, completely overshadowing the trivia of milk supplies, absence notices, yes and even Inspector’s visits!
It is surprising to find Evacuation Drill still being carried out 12 months after the war was over. This is not to be confused with Fire or Earthquake Drill which is still a part of the school exercise.
Smiles would be on every face on the 28th March 1947, when 15 cases of apples landed at the school door – even in a fruit district. These had been delivered during the war years when export was impossible, but had not been noted.
On 7th May, mention is made of the Dental Clinic for the first time and the appointment of Nurse Condon.
On 8th September, a certain George Lowe is noted as filling a “B” Grade position on the staff – “A’ grade in everything else, however, as was found later on Mt. Everest with Hillary.
The Gala Day on 15th November netted £200 which, considering inflation, compares favourably with today.
Another “polio” cloud was on the horizon as school closed on 1st December – Salk Vaccine was still many years away.
It was 1st March before school resumed, work having been done at home in many cases and handed in for marking. In the 2nd Term however, polio broke out again and school was once more closed by the Health Department.
Little else of note appears for this year except perhaps the information that George Lowe joined a search party investigating a plane lost in the Ruahines on 3rd December, returning six days later.
Miss Bain, Infant Mistress from 1934, was farewelled. There must be little wrong with a
Photo caption – SCHOOL PICNIC, BEATSON’S PARK, ABOUT 1920
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school of many of whose teachers stay more than a decade and are sad to leave when the time comes.
On 31st March, 1949, Nurse Morgan “took Medical Records from School Record Cards as all her records were stolen from her car” Can you just imagine the shouts of delight of the thief to discover he had risked gaol for a bunch of school medical records?
A Film Strip Projector was purchased in October – probably the first item of a long line of useful equipment acquired by the school over the next 20 years.
The staff at the opening in 1950 included the names of several teachers who will be well remembered – Miss Mead, Miss Benson, and Mr. Luxton.
A new piano was bought in September, while the Gala day in November raised the very considerable total of £357.
In December, Mr. Roe left Parkvale on retirement, after giving 17 years of his teaching life to the school. Much of its success in the trying war years was due to his interest and unflagging efforts.
In February 1950 Mr. Miller was appointed Headmaster, and Miss de Montalk to the Dental Clinic. Mr. Miller had his hands full for a time with various misdemeanors – thefts from Woolworths, waylaying of children on homeward journey, playing “the wag”, misdoings of Sunday School pupils, etc. On 4th September the Committee decided to purchase a Sound Film Projector, and many a happy hour it has given since.
A very important decision was reached on 4th October when a Home and School Association was formed, and Inspectors from Napier addressed the new body. This organisation has since done wonderful work for the school and its children.
School had scarcely opened in February 1952, when news was received of the death of King George VI, for whom a ceremony was conducted on 15th February.
The name of Dr. Anderson, School Doctor, has appeared in the Log Book on frequent occasions. Dr. Anderson was a well known and very highly respected visitor for very many years- many a school child was reassured by her quiet and friendly manner.
On July 14th, the first note is found of the very lengthy and complicated dental examinations that lead to the much debated fluoridation issue.
In November, the Senior Inspector of the Education Department spoke to a gathering of parents on the “Dux” question, advising its abandonment and replacement with an award.
Photo caption –
STAFF, 1969
Back row: Nurse Barron, T Jobling, Miss D. Thompson, Miss S. Skinner, Miss J. Williams, S. Simpson, J. Horan, Mrs. N. Neil, Mrs. V. Peach.
Front Row: Mrs. P. Thomas, Mrs. I. Frethey, Mrs. M. Bartlett, M. Wennink, Miss. M. Mayo, R. Boyd, (H. M.), Mrs. B. Steenson, R. Mine, Mrs. E. Mill, Miss R. Breed.
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to the best all-round pupil thus giving recognition to qualities other than academic.
At the beginning of the 2nd Term in 1953, Mr. Giorgi, as president of the R.S.A., visited the school and planted a tree in honour of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth.
Unfortunately the high note was not maintained, as the next entry concerns a visit to the school of the police in connection with the theft of firearms from a neighbouring farm.
A highlight of August was a reception, attended by S4, F 1 and 2, at the Hastings Civic Centre in honour of Mr. George Lowe on his return from Everest – Parkvale basked in his reflected glory!
Waimarama School paid Parkvale a visit, competing in Football and Basketball, on August 15th, a very worthwhile experiment; the visit was returned on September 10th and the note describes it as “a most enjoyable outing”.
Various meetings of Committee to discuss Gala days are reported in October, the final one coming to the momentous decision to abandon Galas in favour of an Annual Subscription of £1 per family – a decision which was to lead to considerable heart burning over the next few years.
8th December records the death of Mr. Garry Warner, School Inspector. Mr. Warner was a quiet man, a fine teacher and a gentleman – many children and teachers will remember him with affection.
1954 opened with Board painters at work in the school. This was to continue for six more weeks and the combination of large painters and small fingers is not a happy one.
The first of a rather lengthy series of accidents on climbing equipment is reported on February 8th. This whole question was hotly debated more than once in the years with general agreement that familiarity and practice bring confidence and skill.
During the first term of 1954, mention is made in several places of the impending “decapitation” of the school – the removal of Forms 1 and 2 to the new Intermediate School, together with several staff members.
On the 7th May, Mr. Miller resigned to take up the position of Headmaster of Raureka School and Mr. Izatt was appointed to succeed him, each being farewelled and welcomed respectively at a combined Home and School function.
Mr. Izatt’s first month was enlivened by what he described as “a minor catastrophe” in the form of a steam boiler explosion in one of the Primer classrooms. Fortunately it occurred just before school assembled, and no one was injured although the room was wrecked. Both caretaker and children escaped serious injury by minutes only. The most likely cause was blockage in the circulating system due to a 12 degree frost the night before, but no really satisfactory explanation was ever provided.
Children of the school organized and conducted a Shop Day on 28th July to raise funds to provide a Primer Jungle Gym. With £32 profit, this was a very successful undertaking.
Photo Caption – 1919-1929
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Photo caption – 1919-1929
The school was divided into “Houses” and this incentive was introduced both into work and play. The provision of “Well Done“ badges whetted the children’s interest and provided some humorous incidents, especially amongst the Primers.
At the Break Up ceremony, opportunity was taken to farewell Mr. George Phillips, First Assistant, who left on promotion for Central School. His presentation was made by Ian Boag of S4, who was later to become Dux of Hastings Boy’s High School and to go on to take an Engineering Degree at University.
Mr. Marriott followed Mr. Phillips in 1955, and Mr. Nottingham began a long and valuable association with Parkvale at the same time. Mr. Eric Batson, after a most energetic Chairmanship of the school committee, retired and was followed by Mr. Ralph Stevenson, whose connections with Parkvale went back a long way.
Since the older children of Forms 1 and 2 had now gone to the Intermediate School, it was found impossible to cope with the large area of garden around the school. Most of it was therefore put back into lawn.
An interesting note of 15th June describes the departure of William Sargisson from P2 for the spastic clinic at Rotorua. William had been a great favourite, both with his teachers and his fellow pupils, and he left with various gifts from his well-wishers.
Mr. Luxton left on promotion to Mahora at the end of June and in him Parkvale lost one of its good friends and most ardent partisans. Another in Mr. Batson, was farewelled at a Home and School function and opportunity was taken to present him with a framed coloured aerial photograph of the school and its grounds for which he had done so much.
The Winter Sports Inter-School Tournament for this year records a win to the Junior Football team, a semi-final win for the “Midgets” and final games for both S3 and S4 Basketball teams – a very satisfactory result.
A gift of 75 film-strips from the Home and School Association in October established the fine strip library the school now owns.
A parents meeting early in February 1956 decided to establish school uniforms, both for general and physical education purposes, incorporating the school colours, blue and gold; a willing group of mothers attended school to help cut patterns.
July saw the inauguration of a scheme which has since been generally adopted by most if not all schools – the holding of Parent-Teacher interviews in lieu of reports on children’s progress. This experiment proved tremendously valuable in assisting teachers to understand difficulties facing certain children.
In August, the first Parkvale Junior Red Cross group was formed under the control of Miss Douglas.
September saw the addition of a Tape Recorder to the school’s growing list of amenities, and to this were added two record players, provided by the children’s own shop day.
A committee working bee painted the baths in November and those who have taken
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part in such efforts will recall with pleasure the fun and nonsense connected with them.
1957 open with the resignation and subsequent death of a very old friend of the school in Mr. George Baddiley, caretaker since the opening day in 1920. Few schools can have been served so faithfully. It is with pleasure to record that Mrs. Baddiley is still in excellent health and continuing her almost lifelong association with the school by serving its youngsters daily in the “tuck- shop.”
In May, a presentation was made to Miss Benson on her retirement after 12 years at Parkvale.
October 30th saw the first of many enjoyable and instructive trips to Christchurch undertaken by S4 children and accompanied by two teachers, Mrs. Wake and Mr. Nottingham. In future years, these trips were to prove very beneficial both educationally and socially, and the children concerned were to earn quite a reputation for excellent behaviour.
Old pupils of more recent years will remember the Break-up functions – the hours of practice under the hot sun with the piano casters sinking into the hot tar on the tennis court and staff in outrageous sun hats!
Carpenters were again in evidence at the beginning of 1958 re-modelling class-rooms – and how they needed it! If Parkvale, as a building has a fault, it is its permanence. It grows old-fashioned but never shabby!
Reference is made in several places to Anzac Day observances. The school was indebted for many years to Mrs. Frank Bromley, who made wreaths in school colours to be laid on the Cenotaph.
In June, Anne Jones was admitted to school and in no time was “adopted” by her classmates. Arguments, occasionally developing into fights, arose as to whose turn it was to wheel Anne’s chair around the ground at morning interval. The school may have done something for Anne, but Anne unquestionably did a good deal for the school – she was a great favourite with teachers and children alike.
On 4th August, the new Sound System was installed – the £160 concerned being raised by Children’s and Home and School Shopdays, a fine effort of co-operation.
Early 1959 saw the installation of Multiplay and Multiplex physical equipment and the building by a working bee of the sandpit and play-pool in front of the school.
The “Warden” System of traffic control in Heretaunga Street commenced in June and marked the beginning of a protracted argument with the Traffic Department leading eventually to the crossing patrol now operating.
Two British “Lions” visited the school following their match against Hawke’s Bay. We were not to know that not many years afterwards, an ex- Parkvale boy would be doing likewise in Britain as a member of the All Blacks – Bill Davis.
Photo caption – 1930 -1939
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1959 closed with the retirement of Miss Mead after over 12 years service as Infant Mistress. To quote from the Log Book, “her influence extends and will extend far beyond the classroom – such teachers and friends are rare indeed.”
In March 1960, the school “adopted” the newly formed Social Club for the Blind in Hastings, providing the members with a programme and afternoon tea every month at the school. Funds were raised by the sale of tea coupons, and selected children took blind folk for walks, read to them, and generally assisted wherever possible.
An interesting note of 15th June reads “With the departure of Neville and Lynn Growcott today, there ends a continuous Growcott attendance at Parkvale of 39 years – a record difficult to equal.”
On 8th August, Miss de Montalk, a much loved Dental Nurse finished her devoted service to Parkvale, and was farewelled at a Home and School function.
The initiative and willingness to help, so characteristic of Parkvale children was evident in a concert organized and presented by S.3 and 4 in a local hall which raised £10 for Red Cross relief in Chile.
In October was started an improvement for which the school had long been waiting – the building of a new Administration Block to replace the old and much abominated Staff Room and H. M.’s Office.
The Break-up ceremony that year was addressed by Mr. Henry Bell, Staff Inspector and parent of the school. As Senior Inspector later, Mr. Bell was always a good friend to Parkvale; his recent untimely death was a great blow to us all. Mr. Bell also addressed the parents at the Break-up in 1961 when the First Assistant, Mr. Neil Windsor was farewelled on his departure for New Guinea to fill a Mission teaching appointment.
In 1962, the first polio vaccine programme was carried out, rather to children’s discomfiture – but parents’ relief.
In April 1963, the rooms in the old building received their long awaited “face-lift” with new blackboards, curtains and fittings.
Comparatively recent old pupils will remember with some amusement the S4 “banquets” at the end of the year when they “entertained” the staff to lunch. From a very shaky beginning when the staff was largely overlooked until most of lunch was gone, these functions developed into very well organised and well conducted affairs – a tribute to the children responsible.
The chief note of importance in 1964 was the holding of a Gala Day for the first time for quite a few years. The purpose was to raise funds to augment the Jubilee Assembly Hall Fund, and the result – £420 – was very acceptable.
The draft plan for the Assembly Hall arrived in April 1965 and then the pressure was
Photo caption – 1940-1949
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really on to raise enough finance to ensure the opening at Jubilee time!
In July came the sad news of the death of Mr. Roe, headmaster from 1933-50; a wreath from pupils, staff and parents was sent to the funeral.
The “Shell” traffic trainer visited the school in charge of Messrs. Coddington and Young, traffic officers, and it would be difficult to judge whether children or staff derived the most fun from it!
Karen Cooper and Stephanie Frizzell, dux and best all-round girl respectively at Karamu High School, followed in the footsteps of Vivienne Langford and Valerie Frizzell, who had filled the positions of Dux and Head Prefect of Hastings Girls’ High School, a few years before. With such old pupils as Koreen Hall, a New Zealand champion swimmer and best all-round girl of Karamu High School, and a horde of others with school and university successes behind them, Parkvale has good cause to be proud of the calibre of its pupils.
The year ended with the retirement of Mr. Izatt, Headmaster since 1954, marked by various presentation functions and a considerable amount of nonsense and hilarity.
Mr. Boyd was appointed headmaster in February 1966 when the school opened with a roll of 461.
In May, a good friend of the school in Mrs. Archer, Clerical Assistance, retired after eight years’ service.
In mid- June the roll passed 500 for the first time, and accommodation became even more of a problem than before.
The Government subsidy of $8000 for the erection of the Assembly Hall was passed in April 1967 and the building really got under way.
Mr. Nottingham left the staff on promotion to Raureka School in May and Parkvale lost yet another of its best friends.
A Home and School Social in November “warmed” the new Hall and made all those concerned in this onerous project feel it had been worthwhile.
Another “first” was recorded on 14th September, 1968, when Parkvale entered a float in the Blossom Procession, and had the Blossom Queens to visit the school.
In November, the roll reached a new “high” of 561, and the year closed with the “full-house” sign up and 568 pupils attending.
February 1969 brings us to the Jubilee and the end of this first 50 years of our history. It is the earnest wish of the Editor that the next half century will be as full of satisfactions for Parkvale’s new pupils as it has proved to be for the old, and that their school will mean as much to them as it does to all of us who have been associated with it from 1919 to 1969.
Photo caption – 1950-1969
Page Fifteen
“HOP KILN” DAYS
Material supplied by Miss V. M. Castles, one of the two original “Hop Kiln” Teachers.
The Hop Kiln, a large two-storied barn-like building, stood on the site later occupied by St. Barnabas’ Church in Selwood Road. It formed part of the Masters’ property prior to 1920, and was the birthplace of the Parkvale School. Children from this area had been attending the Hastings District High School, later Central; when distance proved too much for small children- there were no buses in those days- the Primer and Std. 1 children were housed in the Hop Kiln as a side school to Central, and were taught by Miss Castle and the late Miss Anderson under the headmastership of Mr. Peglar [Pegler].
Both classes occupied the upper floor of the building, one at each end – no partition, long desks, and a tiny stove against one wall that fought a losing battle with the cold and draughts that whistled around the children’s ears! You will remember the squeaky slates, and the water bottles carried by each tiny to help clean them for the next lesson. One cold day, when the stove made a particularly valiant effort, the wall caught alight and the cry went up, “Bring your water bottles – quickly!” a very worried teacher was thinking of the narrow outside stair which was the only access and exit from this tinder-dry room!
Miss Castle drove from Havelock and later, Haumoana, in a gig in those days. She describes the difficulty of catching the horse when ready to return; of its knowing ways when it discovered that school bags, hung under the trees, often contained things to eat, and of its regular investigations thereafter!
“Lovely old friendly days,” she says. “We were like a little country school, with the usual quota of hard cases, but all lovely children”
When Parkvale opened in February, 1920, the Hop Kiln ceased to be. Miss Castle asserts that the friendly reputation which has always been peculiarly Parkvale’s, was laid in these early days in the Hop Kiln. The fact that she taught there until 1920, then returned in 1924 to teach for seven more years, is the old school’s best recommendation. Miss Castle, who is as well as the years will allow her to be, regrets she was unable to met her old pupils at the Jubilee, but wishes them well wherever they may be.
Photo caption – The “Hop Kiln” Class, 1919. Teachers at rear, Miss Castle, Miss Anderson
Page Sixteen
OFFICIAL OPENING OF PARKVALE SCHOOL
Extract from Herald-Tribune report of 12th April 1920.
The formal opening of the Hastings East (Parkvale) School was held in glorious weather this morning, when some 300 adults and the pupils of the school assembled to assist in the ceremony which was carried out by Hon. C. J. Parr, Minister of Education.
Amongst those present were the Mayor of Hastings (Mr. G. Ebbett), Messrs. H. M. Campbell, M. P., G. F. Roach (Chairman of the Education Board), W. Dunn (Secretary of the Education Board), T. Miller (Chairman of the Parkvale School Committee), Gilbert McKay, G. Venables, A. W. Hamilton, Inspectors Bird, Strachan and Wheeler.
The Minister and party were conducted through the school by the headmaster, Mr. Garry, after which the Ministerial party and the visitors generally were invited to partake of morning tea in the grounds, where they were waited on by the ladies connected with the school and entertained in a most hospitable manner.
The assemblage then adjourned to the school rooms, which were thrown into one, and a large gathering was addressed by the various speakers.
Mr. G.F. Roach, who introduced the Minister, thanked him for opening the school, more particularly since it was the first he would be opening since taking office. He complimented him as a man deeply interested in educational matters. The present site for the school was decided by the generous act of Mr. F. Howard, who said to him that if he would do what he could to get the Government and people interested, he would give an acre of land towards the site for the school. This had been added to by the Department until there were now five acres, high and dry, one of the best sites in location and surroundings. In 1914 he was induced by Sir James Allen to view the site and the purchase was agreed to. That was the year the War commenced and from that time to this the people of the district had been striving for this day. He congratulated Mr. Boland, the architect, and the contractor, Mr. Hill, on their construction of the latest thing in schools; the school was starting under one of the best teachers in Hawke’s Bay, Mr. Garry. He commended the School Committee, which had raised £300 towards ground improvements.
Mr. H. M. Campbell, M.P., referred to the excellent work done by Mrs. Lovell Smith, who had kept him in close touch with progress. This was a district in which the birth-rate was not declining. The school had opened two months ago with 250 pupils – a full school – and now there were 261. The Minister should be opening a new school! The school was the best he had ever seen, and when the Dominion had schools such as this, and when a better rate of pay was given to our school teachers, our education would be the best in the world. He referred also to the bequest made to the Agriculture Department by the late Mr. Howard, of £100,000 for the establishment of an Agriculture College in Hastings.
Mr. T. Miller welcomed the visitors as demonstrating to the Minister the enthusiasm of the Parkvale residents. The present school building represented only half the structure, the other half having yet to be built when more accommodation was necessary. He thanked particularly the ladies who had gone to Wellington at the committee’s request to convey the district’s wishes to Government.
The present function marked their success.
The Mayor congratulated all concerned, and the children on being the occupants of one of the most up-to-date schools in the Dominion. He knew Mr. Parr to be fair minded,
Photo caption – From L. to R – Mr. H. M. Campbell, M. P., Mr. T. Miller (Chairman School Committee), Sir James Parr (Minister of Education), Mr. G. Roach (Chairman Education Board)
Page Seventeen
just, and deeply interested in Education – the district would get a fair deal from him.
Mr. Parr, in his reply, mentioned that he had been “through the mill” himself as he had been a school committee member, and chairman of the Auckland Education Board. He would give any reasonable request a sympathetic hearing. He congratulated Mrs. Lovell-Smith and her ladies for their attempts to beautify the grounds, a factor not always given full value in a child’s education.
In 1903 there had been only one school in Hastings, the district High School. In 1903 the Hastings North School had been erected with only one room, but it was added to in 1905, 1908, 1912, and 1915, and further additions were now being considered. In 1914 the congestion was further relieved by the Hastings West School for which £1700 had been allocated for necessary additions, and then the Parkvale School was built.
Although Hastings was a prosperous and progressive community he hoped the residents would not indulge in the present orgy of high priced land. Some local land was selling for as much as £200 an acre when the best land in England was some £35, and in Canada £10 an acre. One of his greatest difficulties was to persuade builders to tender for school contracts.
In addition to the land donated locally the department had granted £918 to secure two other sections so that there were now 4¾ acres. On 17th April last, a grant of £5248 had been approved for the erection of four rooms in brick as a nucleus of a larger building to be erected as occasion demanded. The Department also had a liability for furniture and other requirements.
With Parkvale, Hastings would have four schools. He had much pleasure in declaring the school open, congratulating Headmaster and staff, pupils and residents on their fine achievement. He hoped it would turn out fine men and women, big-hearted and good citizens. He concluded by thanking the ladies for their hospitality and he asked the Headmaster to declare a half-holiday for the children, a declaration received with loud juvenile cheers!
[Photo of 1919 group]
Page Eighteen
LOOKING BACK
MR. GEORGE RUSCOE.
Although forty-three years have passed since I was appointed first assistant in the Parkvale School, I still have the happiest re-collections of my seven years’ association with the school. Transferred from Dannevirke North School where my class and I shared a classroom with another teacher of a Form 2 class, I found myself on my arrival at Parkvale, accommodated in a shelter-shed, the only shelter from wind and rain on the open side being a canvas awning. This was somewhat of a disappointment but despite the conditions under which the pupils had to work they achieved remarkably fine results. Eventually two additional classrooms were erected and at last I had a room in which pupils and I could work happily.
It is agreed that today schools are democratic in their administration but Parkvale School even forty years ago was a truly democratic one. Under the able administration of the late Mr. G. Lord, who, in association with Mr. McClune, wrote the book “Democracy in the Classroom”, the school functioned as a real democracy. To me, his introduction into the school of the most modern methods of instruction was a revelation. No longer were methods formal, children being given every opportunity and encouragement to participate freely in all work. The introduction of a school orchestra, a bugle band and club activities, not forgetting the teaching of French to Form 2 pupils, made the school a happy, united unit. Yes, the school was an excellent one – proud of its academic achievements and proud too, of its successes in the field of sport.
Many of the old pupils will remember vividly the 1931 earthquake, the Form 2 of that year spending a week or two following the ‘quake, under a walnut tree which I hope still remains. The tree yielded fine nuts which were gathered at the Head’s command and placed on high shelves in the store-room to mature for his use. Another male teacher and I decided that we, too, should share in nature’s bounty and decided to raid the store-room. My friend reached high to get the nuts but unfortunately for him a mouse entered the sleeve of his coat and made its way down through his clothing to leave by way of the bottom of his trousers. He was bitten in numerous places and his antics would have made any “go-go” girl envious.
And what of the Head who each lunch-time made his way to the Parkvale Golf Course accompanied by boys whose task it was to retrieve the balls which he endeavored to drive tremendous distances? Apparently some of the some unknown source secured a roll of paper boys or golf club members resented his excavating the area on which he practiced and from on which they printed in large letters, “Mr. …, please do not excavate here”. This they
Photo caption – 1919-1929
Page Nineteen
placed on his teeing area, but so far as I know this did not deter him from further excavations.
Perhaps one old boy remembers his All Black Rugby Tackle. The Head Teacher was, in his usual pompous manner, demonstrating his prowess at side-stepping when he was unceremoniously brought to the ground with an almighty tackle. His anger knew no bounds and the tackler was given the difficult task of removing the countless grass stains from the blue serge suit which he was wearing.
Still undetected are the boys who on the occasion of an evening given to Dannevirke pupils entered in the Head’s Ford car and left behind in it that which I shall not describe.
Musical appreciation lessons were part of the school’s curriculum. I have vivid memories of a remarkably fine lesson given to my class by the Head. The record on which the lesson was based was “The 1812 Overture”. The following day all the Inspectors of the area arrived at school to see just how a lesson on Musical Appreciation should be taken. My room was the venue for the lesson. And what a lesson it was! Never have I seen a class respond so brilliantly in expressing themselves and never have I seen Inspectors so impressed. As they were about to leave the room a girl whom I shall not name stood and said, “Mr…That is the same lesson as we had yesterday”. It was, too. If you have ever noticed the colour of a beetroot you’d have seen the same colour on the Head’s face. Need I describe the expressions on the faces of the Inspectors?
Yes, I have many happy memories of my years at Parkvale School, and occasionally have the privilege of meeting old pupils when the “good” old days are discussed.
MR. GILBERT LLOYD.
The first day:
My sister and I arrived at Parkvale School at 8 a.m. to find about 20 children gathered in the yard. My father took us straight in to where the headmaster, Mr. Garry, with a large black moustache, was in his office. He opened up his roll book and entered my sister’s and then my name at the top of the sheet.
Three years later I was holding the Headmaster’s office for telephone calls. I looked through the register and saw my sister No. 1 and myself No. 2, and thought at the time, “By jove, when I’m an old man in 1969, I will be able to come to the reunion and be the first boy on the roll.”
The school was then only four rooms, two standards in each and one room for the primers. The school soon grew and classes had to be taken in the shelter sheds while waiting for more rooms to be built.
Many children rode ponies to school and quite a large horse paddock was maintained where the Jubilee Hall now stands.
Baddiley’s store started at the house in Selwood Road nearly opposite Windsor Park store. Ice creams were home made custard ones at 2d. each made from cream from the cows grazing right on the premises in the paddocks
Photo caption – 1919-1929
Page Twenty
between Selwood Road and St Aubyn Street. Pies were also home-made at 3d. each and business grew so quickly that Baddiley’s soon built the little store opposite the school which is still owned by the family.
Life was much simpler in those days. Many had chores before and after school to help meet the budget in the large families. One girl used to wear a piece of string around her neck holding the cow paddock key, so she could graze the herd out in the “long paddock” as soon as school was out.
MRS. POMEROY (Winifred Viner [Vyner]).
Thinking nostalgically of early days at Parkvale, thoughts such as these come to mind. My first recollections are of my father opening a gate at what is now Howard Street to go around sheep grazing on “the school site”. Later I recall walking through the partially built school, I remember picnics in what is now Windsor Park, then known as Beatson’s Park, School Shops held in vacant premises in town, and one in particular where I had a hedgehog in a box and charged a penny a look!
Socials were held at the school, and we children were pulled around the floor on sheepskins to polish it for the dancers. Later we would sit on the floor and watch our parents let their hair down in the Lancers and other such riotous dances! A real highlight was the visit to H.M.S. Hood, anchored in H.B. roadstead. We went to Port Ahuriri by train very early one morning, boarded M.V. Ripple (later lost in Cook Strait) and cruised around the largest warship afloat at that time. That was a REAL expedition!
Fancy Dress balls saw us dressed as daffodils, Red Indians, and even one as Mary with a real little black lamb in tow. I remember School Concerts, held in town, with Maitland Findlay singing “Dear Little Jammy Face,” and marching to the Municipal Theatre headed by our school band playing gallantly all the way and people hurrying out of their homes to see the cavalcade pass. Oh, endless are the memories that come crowding back od those happy, carefree days.
RENATA WALKER
With the Jubilee in mind, my thoughts go back to my very early days, 1920-25, as a pupil of the school.
One memorable occasion of the school year I can remember very well. The time is about mid-December – early morning, after examinations are over. Mr. F. A. Garry stands on the concrete landing at the front entrance to the school, one hand behind his back, the other twirling his moustache. The occasion is the School Gala Day. Pupils are arriving with home grown exhibits of flowers and vegetables. These are set up in Rooms 1 and 2, opened into one to give a “show” atmosphere.
Judging would be done by experienced horticulturalists, the late Messrs. Fawcett, Superintendent of Reserves, and Jack Commin. After Lunch, when the show is opened and the appropriate red, blue or yellow cards in place, there will be an orderly rush to see how we have fared.
Photo caption – 1930-1939
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I well remember collecting our share of these cards. Also on display for parents’ approval (and when I say parents, I mean a large percentage of households represented) there would be a display of pupils’ work – beautiful hand-writing, drawing, girls’ sewing. Ah yes, that sewing! The girls used to make a certain under-garment. How I recall the mirthful conjecture of the young mothers as to when any member of the family would be sizeable enough to wear said garments!
The day would be climaxed by a game of cricket – committeemen and staff v. [verses] School XI. I call to mind such notables as the late Messrs. S. Vyner, A. Giorgi, Matt Cohen, H.S.B. Ribbands, and Mr. Beuth playing for the Committee with Mr. F. Garry and Peter Nielson representing staff. Afternoon tea would be served by the ladies committee for parents, guests, and players.
The children – well, I guess we received a penny or, if we were very lucky, threepence to spend at Mrs. Baddiley’s shop – altogether a thrilling and satisfying day.
My sincere thanks incidentally to those who assisted in the early formation of the Jubilee Committee. We all agree, I think, that any effort on our part has been well worth while, and that we have been amply repaid by the memories of this occasion.
MRS. JOAN SMITH.
In 1917 my mother and father, R.M. and H.J. Lovell-Smith came to Hastings to live and settled at 803 Ellison Road. The nearest school to which we could go was the Main School (now called Central) This school had 900 pupils and my parents considered it grossly over-crowded. I remember I was in Std. 4 and there were 80 pupils in that class. My mother and father decided to call a meeting in the house in Ellison Road of people interested in getting another school nearer at hand. I don’t know how it was advertised, but my father was working for the Cliff Press so he may have been able to get something printed.
There were 30 people at the meeting rather to everyone’s astonishment I think. I remember what a crowd it seemed in the house. Some of the early names I remember hearing were Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Sherriff, Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong, Mr. A. Giorgi, Mr. E.V. Simpson, Mr. R. Paynter, Mr. Vyner, Mr. Hodgkinson, Mr. and Mrs. H.S. Ribbands, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Hill, Mr. and Mrs. Bates.
I think from that meeting it was decided to get people to sign a petition asking the Minister of Education for a school. My mother, Mrs. R.M. Lovell-Smith and Mrs. Sheriff, eventually went to Wellington with the petition and presented it to the Minister, Hon. C.J. Parr. There may have been someone with them, but I don’t remember hearing about anyone else.
Eventually the school was begun with infant classes in the old Hop Kiln. My younger sister Lovell, was a pupil at the Hop Kiln, which became a school room in 1919. The present school was erected in 1919. Bricks were laid by the Hop Kiln pupils and the school opened in
Photo caption – 1930-1939
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1920. I was in the first Std. 6. Stds. 5 and 6 were in the room at left of the main door and the head’s office and staff room were opposite the classroom door.
Mr. F. A. Garry was our teacher. I don’t even remember his using a strap though he may have done it in his office. He was certainly not flourishing it around all the time. The class spent one drawing period making a plan of the grounds as Mr. Garry wished them to be. The pergolas and curved paths I remember well. We didn’t think of baths having to be fitted into the area. He put trees where they are now. Tree planting was a feature of his work in the area, and the school planted trees along the roadside on Arbor Day.
The school played basketball and football in the winter. In summer cricket was played by the boys. Girls played skipping, hop scotch and ball games on the wall of the school. Our basketball posts were not the right height, and I remember the Hastings West team coming to play at our school and nearly losing the game because of our rings not being correct! Hastings West had a very good team and felt quite disgruntled at our nearly beating them. Mr. Garry congratulated us next day and I remember being very surprised at his taking notice of it. Miss Anderson took the girls for basketball.
Towards the end of the year 1920 the school had a show. There were flower exhibits, decorative classes, vegetables and also school work on display. Maybe there were competitions for drawings, painting and writing, and maybe an essay competition too. I remember this day was quite important in our lives. There seemed to be crowds who came to look.
Proficiency examination loomed large in our thoughts. The actual examination must have been on a Saturday. I think, as there seemed to be an unnatural stillness about the school, and there were only the Std. 6 there – about 15 to twenty of us. Most of us passed, as I remember. Mr. Whetton was the Inspector who conducted the examination.
MRS. RUTH BLUMMONT (nee Symons).
My mother, Mrs. R. G. Symons, at 87, was possibly the oldest parent at the Jubilee. Our family of eight children, with their families have attended Parkvale over a period of 43 years, so we can fairly be said to have a stake in the old school!
The first ladies’ committee comprised, in addition to my mother, Mesdames Gilbert McKay, Cooper, Smith, Masters, Ribbands, Vyner, Baddiley and Wilson. The men’s committee, already in office were – Messrs. Gilbert McKay, Steere, Weaver, Cooper, Vyner, O’Neill, Simpson and Paynter. The Parkvale Progressive Society was formed to provide amenities in Beatson’s Park, the first being the paddling pool, which developed into the Swimming pool. Male members of the society gave their work voluntarily and artesian water was supplied from Mr. Vyner’s stock paddock opposite in Haig Street, the Vyner’s also filling and emptying the baths
1940-1949
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when the Council proposed to charge for the service.
School Fancy Dress Balls were held in the Assembly Hall from about 1924, preceded by hours of practice of the Grand March in the school grounds. The hall was decorated in blue and yellow and parents danced afterwards to McKay’s orchestra. Concerts in the Municipal Theatre raised funds for dressing sheds and baths fencing. Do you remember “Gathering Peascods” with Miss Castle, and “Alice in Wonderland” which we shared with Hastings West – do you remember the social evenings and boiling-up in the outside copper then in the boiler room-oh, that boiler room and the winter lunch time cocoa at 1d a cup!
I remember when Sir Charles and Lady Fergusson visited Hastings, their first official duty was to inspect Parkvale School and plant a tree; Sir Charles suggested that further trees be planted on Arbor Days, a wish faithfully kept by successive pupils and teachers. Our late Governor, Sir Bernard, was present that day as a little boy who wanted to stay and play with the Parkvale boys, but time would not permit!
Earthquakes seemed to play a large part of our recollections. Mr. Dawkins was Std. 5 teacher when the fringe of the Murchison quake struck us in 1929. We were just leaving for manual training at Central School; we left so hurriedly that Mr. Dawkins recalled us and gave instructions for orderly exit if that should ever [mis-type] occur again- and it did two years later! February 3rd 1931 was the second day of school and I was walking through our orchard clutching my books as I’d been on an errand. As the ground shook and the trees wobbled I felt sick and sat under a tree – hearing the children calling at school. When I reached school I found that the entire front fence had fallen but half outward and half inward. Fortunately Mrs. Chappell’s Primers were not injured as the wall in each case fell away from them. A few bricks fell from the end of the main school where there are now concrete reinforcements but little other damage. We had lessons outdoors under the walnut tree and it bought it home to us vividly to find ourselves once again under it at the Jubilee. I remember Miss Castles telling us the baths overflowed into the grounds; they were like a rough sea and young seagulls from our orchard were found there later; a special call from one – Squawky – identified them.
Part of our nature study class work was gardening – the boys vegetables and the girls, flowers. Woe to the girl who picked a flower from her garden – my school friend and I suffered in this way at the hands of Mr. Lord! The worse part of the punishment was to stand in front of the assembled school and have our fearful crime recounted!
As a pupil who attended only Parkvale School, I am particularly proud to have been able to be present at the Jubilee, and to have met my first teacher, Mrs. Chappell, and my last, Mr. Ruscoe, together with several of the others. Parkvale gave much to all of us and it was a privilege to return a little of it in honouring the old school at this time.
Photo caption – 1950-1969
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A FEW PARKVALE PERSONALITIES
ARNOLD PAUL: Secretary to the N. Z. High Commissioner in Tokyo, Japan; later N.Z Trade Commissioner in Singapore for 4 years. For the past 2 years in Government Service, Wellington.
GEORGE LOWE (teacher): Outstanding mountaineer – accompanied Hillary in successful ascent of Mt Everest, 1953. Married the daughter of Sir John Hunt, Everest Expedition leader; now Headmaster of Boy’s School in Santiago, Chile.
ELSIE LEIPST: Nursing sister who served in Shetland Islands, England and Palestine. Spent two years in Korea, representing the Save the Children movement at Masan Hospital.
RAY SYMONS: First member of Territorial Force team, competing at Trentham in Rifle Shooting to win both the Coleman and Ballinger Belts at the one meeting.
RON SHAKESPEARE: Hastings Accountant; Manager of N.Z. Empire Games, Olympic and Swimming Teams overseas and at home.
JACK DAVIS: New Zealand Boxing Champion.
BILL DAVIS: (son of above) H.B. representative and N.Z. “All Black” Rugby footballer.
GLADYS SYMES, M.B.E.: Athlete and athletic administrator; N.Z. representative athlete and basketballer.
MERVYN WYBROTT: Holder of world title in roller skating.
JEAN HALL (nee McMillan): Mother of family of swimmers, some of whom have represented N.Z. at home and overseas.
TOM GARROD: Playing member of the Hastings Golf Greenwood Team for 40 years – 1928-1968; also well-known cricketer.
MARY TRIM (nee Buckingham): Missionary in India.
HARRY STEVENSON: Director of Lewis Construction Company, Malvern, Australia. Australian Government Representative at the Geneva Conference of International Labour Organisation.
IAN BOAG: Passed M.E. Degree in Chemical Engineering at Canterbury University; now attending Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, studying for his Doctorate.
ROSS SMITH: (Son of old boy-Nigel). Passed M.Sc. with Distinction in Physics at Canterbury University: Now reading for his Doctorate at Trinity College, Cambridge.
DICK SIMPSON, L.L.M:. Chancellor of Victoria University, Wellington. Chairman of the Queen Elizabeth Arts Council and very prominent in varied social activities on a national level.
EUGENE GRAYLAND: Originator, printer and publisher of the Parkvale magazine, “Blue and Yellow” in 1930. This small beginning, which ran for some years at Parkvale, probably launched Eugene on his writing career. He is now a writer of some note, author of “New Zealand Disasters” and other works. Domiciled in Auckland.
The academic list of illustrious old pupils could be lengthened considerably – quite a number are now in the throes of University study and will shed lustre on their old school in due course. It is quite impossible to avoid omissions in this field, and many, no doubt should have been included who have achieved like distinction in various forms of endeavour. Some have simply been chosen at random to show that Parkvale’s old pupils have given their school good cause to hold its head high, while feeling gratefully proud of its children. The school, however, can be heard to mutter, “I am proud of ALL my children, just as long as they are LADIES and GENTLEMEN!”
The Jubilee Library….
There was a good response to the appeal to donate books for the Jubilee Library, and to date, as a result, 83 volumes have been added to the library at a total cost of $130.35c. There are still a limited number of presentation stickers left, so if you would like to present a book from your family, please write for a sticker and send it to the school with a book of your choice, or a book token and we will make the choice for you. Fiction would be preferred at seven to twelve-year-old level.
Page Twenty-Five
TIT BITS FROM THE LOG BOOK
The school “Log” is, of course, a confidential document. There are, however, numbers of entries, grave and gay, that are in no way confidential, and some, which may provide interest, and even amusement, are outlined below.
1920
(Fourth day of school!) Constable Brenchley visited school.
Miss Mack, authoress, traveller and lecturer, visited the school and addressed children.
Shop opened in town in aid of funds for laying out and improving school grounds – sum of £96/7/4 raised.
School closed owing to sickness among staff.
1921
Carting of silt from Howard Street to fill in portion of inner playground.
Mr. J. McKay presented original water colour “Grand Canal, Venice” to school.
Annual Horticultural Show and Exhibition of School Work.
1922
Minister of Education, Hon. C.J. Parr, accompanied by Mr. J.V. Brown, M.P. visited the school.
Male staff laid down a large lawn.
Mr. Owen, Borough Engineer, visited school re asphalting; estimated cost -3/-per sq. yd.
Annual School Show. Fine display of work. £15 netted.
Received from Ed. Bd. 3 spades, 6 ladies’ forks, 6 hoes. (Why don’t manufacturers make ladies’ spades and ladies’ lawn-mowers to-day?).
1923
Owing to action of Mr. …, in relation to some children, spoke to him regarding the need for careful consideration of language used and punishment inflicted!
Stds. 3,4,5 and 6 assembled at Municipal Theatre to witness first schools’ picture programme held in Hastings.
Concrete path to gate formed by H.B. County Council at cost of £48.
1924
Stag’s head and new pictures placed in position in corridor.
Mr. … absent from morning class without permission and reason, as well as neglectful of his playground duties – smoking in Infant room at morning recess instead of being in playground – spoke to him re these matters.
1925
Mr. … asked to lay out an outline of work for his class on Monday when he would be absent, lost control of himself, became abusive, told me what he said did not count with him, snatched a paper from the table, tore it into shreds and marched from the room, violently slamming the door!
Gave Mr. … a chance to apologise. He refused rudely, became personal and when ordered from the room, marched out, putting his head round the door again chanting “Ake, ake, ake,” and “Again Ake, Ake, Ake!”
1927
Visit from Mrs. …. who complained her son had been severely and illegally punished. Teacher had “punched him in the back, strapped him on the buttocks and body, pulled his ear as well as strapping him on the hands.” (Teaching was a vigorous pastime in those days!)
Annual cricket match between senior boys and school committee and staff.
1928
Miss Lovell-Smith took up duties and Mr. George Lord assumed Headmastership.
1929
School visited by Mr. Atmore, Minister of Education.
Fire Drill – school cleared in 40 seconds.
1930
Baths officially opened by Mr. Maddison, chairman of the Education Board.
1931
Earthquake at 10.48 a.m. Fortunately all children were in playground and no one injured.
School closed owing to influenza epidemic.
Page Twenty-Six
1932
Relinquished duties as Headmaster. (G. Lord)
Punch and Judy show at school – $ [£] 3.20 taken, one third of the same for school.
School visited by Mr. D. McCaskill, Senior Inspector of Schools, results of Proficiency Examination – 33 Proficiency, 5 Competency, 1 failure.
Parkvale School Boxing team drew with Marist, Napier, for the “Tristan Shield”.
1933
Miss M. Parker reported for duty, being two days late, as sent to Gisborne by mistake!
(Saturday). The staff of the school visited the Bird Sanctuary at Cape Kidnappers. (A “gullible” group?)
1934
Miss Chappell farewelled after 14 years, almost to the day.
Short address to children on vandalism – cutting trees, etc. – some have been cut near the baths.
Visit to Hastings of Duke of Gloucester
1935
Received cheque £5 1/- from Borough Council – contribution towards Jubilee Celebrations (?)
Jubilee Celebrations – games – party held in classrooms. (Are we 34 years too late?).
1937
Mr. E.L. Cullen, M.P. addressed the pupils on the significance of Coronation Day.
A party of F1 and F2 visited the ship Tainui at Napier.
Swimming week ended. 143 out of 407 can swim – many others well on the road. (Not so well in the water apparently)
1938
Miss Faram absent – bad cold- and water all around her flat.
Eighty-three pupils and four teachers visited Napier to see the “Coronation Robes”.
1940
Flag hoisted. Talk on Treaty of Waitangi Celebrations.
Photo caption – 1919-1929
Page Twenty-Seven
1944
Children spent morning and till two o’clock rehearsing for concert. Had milk before lunch. All teachers present – each class in charge of own teacher. Again in evening, pupils and teachers were occupied from 8 p.m. till 10.20 p.m. Concert a great success – held in Theatre.
1945
Messrs. Maxwell, Gasparich and Warner, School Inspectors, visited school today
School closed 9 a.m. to noon; visit of HMS Indefatigable to Napier.
1946
Misses Benson and Faram did not report for duty – held up by weather near Gisborne or Wairoa.
Arbor Day. Four school representatives attended Planting Celebration and Ceremony at Railway Road.
Holiday granted by the Governor-General.
1947
School re-opened with roll 420.
Picnic at Windsor Park.
Timetables suspended as many pupils engaged in preparation for Gala day.
1949
Case received from Museum containing the feet of various birds.
School used as Polling Booth.
Attended Arbor Day planting at Windsor Park. Children planted two – Celtis occidentalis and Catalpha.
S 3-6 attended Regent Theatre to see “Scott in the Antarctic”.
1950
Messrs. Lane and Lay, committeemen visited the school and noted maintenance work required on baths.
Relinquished duties as Headmaster. (Mr. Roe)
1951
I took over Parkvale School today – roll 350. (Mr. Miller)
A visit round the district to judge Home Gardens was paid today by Mr. Mawson, a committeeman who kindly gave the day to judge and supplied his car.
Lawns cut by a “gang” mower.
First hour – photographer at work with all classes.
I suffered accident with circular saw-unable to write for a week. (Painfully printed by Mr. Miller).
A collection for Hastings Orthopaedic Centre took place in the district and the children bought parcels today – a very good effort.
Prize Giving and Break Up – address by Mr. S. I. Jones, M.P.
1952
A new sewing machine was purchased for school needlework.
A school picnic at Te Awanga.
Farewell to Mr. B. McArthur.
Attended official opening of Frimley School by Dr. Beeby.
Film on school shown at Home and School meeting.
Miss C. went to Hospital today to have her ear syringed as there was a moth in it.
Penny trail held for bran tub – £11 4/6 handed in.
1953
S.4 – F2 visited Civic Centre for reception to Mr. George Lowe, one time teacher at Parkvale.
1954
H. & S. general election of committee. A talk on the new Intermediate School and how it affects Parkvale.
Received notice of appointment to Raureka School.
Leave School today after farewell morning tea with Staff. (Mr. Miller).
I commenced duty as Headmaster today; a lovely sunny morning and a very pleasant atmosphere in the school. Thanks to the willing co-operation from the staff, the change of classes consequent upon the opening of the Intermediate School proceeded with the minimum of trouble. (Mr. Izatt).
1955
School closed for Primary School Sports. School gained 3 firsts, 3 seconds and 3 thirds – a very good effort, particularly as 2 firsts and 2 seconds were team events.
Had a most successful day at the Winter Sports yesterday. Our junior football team won the final 16-0; midget football team reached the semi-final out of 37 teams; both S3 and S4 basketball teams reached the finals.
Page Twenty-Eight
1956
A meeting of mothers to discuss distinctive school uniforms for sports, games, phys. ed. etc
Very successful H. and S. Social with Hastings Male Choir providing entertainment.
Second polio injection – new Singer sewing machine arrived.
Owing to wet weather conditions, break-up function held indoors – huge crowd. (Who could forget it – Infant Room so jammed nobody could move!).
1957
(Note resignation of Mr. Baddiley). Mr. Baddiley has worked for the school for all of its 38 years and his interest and influence have extended far beyond the narrow limits of his duties.
Anzac Service at School – Mr. R. Giorgi, President R.S.A., guest speaker.
Miss G… gave booster diphtheria injections today. (Male staff could never understand children’s reluctance!).
Mr. Page, secretary Ed. Bd. visited the school to discuss possible purchase of land adjoining school to offset loss to grounds by projected extension of St. Aubyn Street.
Children of S3 and 4 biked and hiked to the top of Te Mata Peak today. (Two teachers concerned discovered muscles they didn’t previously know existed!)
Board workmen laid lino and hung curtains in the Headmaster’s office (the first time anything had actually been “hung” there although many must have been near to it!)
Parents Day in School grounds 6.30 p. m. Mr. Sivewright the guest speaker – supper served for guests in the staff room. (Who will ever forget the crush?)
Farewell to Mrs. Wallace, our clerical assistant. (It is doubtful whether any school realizes the debt it owes to its clerical assistant and how much its smooth functioning can be attributed to her).
1958
Primer children given full day holiday in honour of the Queen Mother’s visit.
Owing to poor weather conditions, school picnic finally abandoned. (These “summers” must come every 10 years).
We had as our guests today, the children of Maraetotara School.
School broken into over week-end. About 18/- removed from teacher’s table drawer- damage but no loss in office.
1959
Male staff and 35 boys visited Nelson Park at 11 a.m. to see the “Lions” training. Two Lions. Messrs. Risman and Mulcahy, visited the
Photo caption – STAFF – PAST AND PRESENT
Page Twenty-Nine
school, were welcomed by Karen Cooper and thanked by Peter Walsh.
Home and School Jumble Sale in town. Nett profit £26 to go towards set of football jerseys
Men on staff put in concrete floor for new phys.ed. dressing shed. (Those who took part now understand some of the difficulties facing the building of the Sydney Opera House!)
1960
Miss de Montalk, dental nurse, finished work here today after many years devoted service to Parkvale. She will be farewelled at a suitable H. and S. function.
Workman commenced installation of pump to empty baths. (They didn’t realise what a lot of “fun” the committee were going to get in later years).
1961
Workman finished concreting area in front of main building. Traffic control organised and working smoothly.
Picnic at Farndon Park very successful.
1962
Swimming Carnival and House Sports held in evening before a large crowd of parents.
1963
Received request from police for information about a boy who had not arrived home from school. Boy found in Waipukurau where he had gone to see his mother!
St. 2 visited Mr. Agnew’s farm at Lawn Rd.
1964
Mrs. Milner, dental nurse, farewelled at morning tea. (The dental “bogey” has never prevailed at Parkvale thanks to the sympathetic care of its nurses).
Miss Owens, Infant Adviser, visited the school today and expressed herself “well satisfied with the work of the Infant Department.”
Contractors arrived to carry out asphalting work originally let in Feb. 1963 – Kiwi hustle!
Children’s shop day for sports equipment. The usual whirlwind shopping spree resulting £42 profit.
1965
Mr. R. Boyd, incoming Headmaster, visited us today – a mutually enjoyable occasion.
“I retire from the profession today after 12 happy years at Parkvale. No man could wish for lovelier children, nor warmer relations both within and without the school. It has been a joy and a privilege to be here, and I leave, with the knowledge that the school is in fine heart”. (Note from Mr. Izatt on retirement).
1966
Mrs. Archer, clerical assistance for over 8 years, resigned and was replaced by Mrs. Bond. (Mrs. Archer was a tower of strength as all will agree who were associated with her.)
Roll passed 500 today for the first time in the School’s history.
School broken into during the night – locks forced and £8 9/- of bonus and petty cash stolen.
School Gala most successful, grossing in excess of £510.
Visit by Constable Nathan to talk to S3 and 4 followed by display by police dogs Luger and Inka.
1967
School reopened as Grade 7A. Opening roll 477.
S4. class flown over Napier and Hastings on Social Studies tour.
Visit by Indian and Islands dancing troup.
Closed for vacation – closing roll 560, a new peak.
1968
School burgled during holidays. (The fifth time – for a total of approximately $20 – hardly worth it, really!)
Visit of the Blossom Queens to speak to pupils.
Page Thirty
She’s Kept the Tuck Shop for over 50 years.. .
Many ex-pupils of Parkvale School attending the 50th Jubilee celebrations will recall the home-made ice cream and pies which Mrs. A. Baddiley, school tuck shop owner, served them up to half a century ago. Mrs. Baddiley opened her shop a few months after Parkvale School was opened in 1920. Her ice creams made of real cream and eggs will cause many an old pupil to look back on the passing of the “good old days” with regret. The ice creams sold for 1d and 3d and the pies for 3d.
“I used to make a gallon of vanilla ice cream every day. One of my daughters would bike down to the coolstore and bring back a block of ice on her carrier. We’d pack it around the churn and it would keep the ice cream cold all day,” Mrs. Baddiley said. “It’s not economical to make ice-cream and pies now.”
The little shop sells pies, doughnuts, chippies, soft drinks, buns, sweets and the “odd pad and pencil”. It would be one of the few remaining tuck shops run outside a school today.
Mrs. Baddiley has come to know staff and pupils over the years. She doesn’t have so much contact with the school now as when her husband was alive. Mr. Baddiley was caretaker of the school from the day it began until his death in 1957.
Both he and Mrs. Baddiley have given Parkvale much more than mere service; they have given well nigh a lifetime of devotion and care to its children – a record difficult to equal.
The Parkvale School Crest…
(SEE FRONT COVER)
The school crest had its origin in a casual suggestion by Mr. Frank Bromley, School Committee Secretary, following one of the monthly meetings in 1958, that the school should have its own distinctive letter-head incorporating a crest, and that the headmaster make enquiries and report to the next meeting.
The upshot was that the headmaster (Mr. Izatt) requested Mrs. L. Rule of Twyford, who had considerable experience in this field, to design a crest which would unite the great walnut tree which has always been symbolic of Parkvale, with a scroll and quill to represent scholarship. Her design, in blue and gold, was accepted immediately, and has since appeared on all official school stationery.
The school motto “Dare To Be True” which appears on a scroll beneath the crest, has, of course, been with the school since its earliest days. Some seven years ago, the ladies of the Home and School Association decided that the old school banner, carried by competing teams at Sports Days over the years, had deserved retirement. With much painstaking effort and skill, particularly on the part of Mrs. Florence McLeod and Mrs. Doris Sutherland, they collaborated to produce the fine banner, based on the upper portion of the crest, which now adorns the wall of the new Assembly Hall, together with the neat glass case which houses it – the work of an old boy, Ralph Stevenson, and another example of the active spirit of co-operation so characteristic of Parkvale.
Photo caption – Mrs. Baddiley in her little Tuck Shop
Page Thirty-One
On the Sunny Side . . .
LEO BRUNTON.
It was around 1944-45 as nearly as I can remember. We were all taking part in the school swimming sports when Mr. Rowe, the headmaster, stepped up to the edge of the pool to make an announcement. On his way to the edge of the pool he tripped on the ledge running round the pool and made the most ungraceful dive into the water that could be imagined.
Several of us who were near at hand rushed to his aid and pulled him out. Of course, everyone roared with laughter, especially afterwards as he stood there in his dripping blue suit and took his gold watch from his pocket to shake out the water!
EILEEN TAGGART (nee Taylor) 1924-28.
A favourite saying of Mr. Day when he was Headmaster, and wished to reprove a child for forgetfulness:-“Go to my office, get 2d. worth of nothing wrapped in brown paper – you will find it on the corner of the round table – and bring it to me!”
MRS E. MILL.
Excuses for Absence: – “I went to Taupo for a hair-cut”
“I had a bad cold – and, anyway, the man was painting the kitchen!”
Child’s explanation of her painting: – “It was going to be the Queen, but it turned out to be a gum-boot”
Miri, on seeing a picture of the Duke of Edinburgh – “Oh, look – Mr. Queen!”
Teacher sitting down to read a story to her class finds her very slowest pupil standing at her elbow.
“What are you doing there, John?”
“Case you don’t know a word Miss!”
MISS I. MEAD.
Mary: “My mother is in hospital – she went last night.”
Teacher: “Oh, poor Mum. I hope she is better soon.”
Mary: “Oh, she isn’t sick. Dad hit her on the head with a chair.”
Tom: “Here’s a root of parsley for you Miss. You’ll have to renew it though.”
Teacher (innocent like): “And how do you do that?”
Tom: “Oh, we always use horse manure – I’ll bring you some”. (and he did, next day!)
Teacher to Bill, who was rather given to swearing: “Bill, they tell me you have been swearing again.”
Bill, very angry: “No, Miss. I never; I never did, not once!”
Teacher: “Well they said you did.”
Bill: “I never did. I only called him a b…. b…. and that’s what my mother calls my father.”
MRS. BADDILEY.
A little girl being chastised by her mother for leaving her cardigan at school cried:
“Oh, well, I’ll look in the props loperty box!”
Her mother was weeks finding out she meant the Lost Property Box.
A small boy said to Mr. Baddiley one day: “I’ve known you for a long time – I knew you before Mum was married!”
Meeting Mr. Roe walking across the playground, a small chap asked, “Have they let you out too?”
A small girl came to me with a Scripture problem. I told her I would have to have time to think it out. Said she, “Come on, come on, hurry up. You should know – you were born in the olden days!”
School shop days were held in town in the early days. Nellie had a new Panama hat, very smart and precious to her because of its Parkvale colours. I hung it up at the end of my stall to keep an eye on it. Somehow or other, it was sold on the Jumble Stall! Mr. Lord nearly roared his head off, but it wasn’t so funny to Nellie – nor to me!
One of my old “boys” was surprised to find I still remembered him as one of my pie customers. The thing he remembered best was my putting blue-bag on his bee stings, before the school had its own Red Cross Outfit.
Page Thirty-Two
PARKVALE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY HALL (Contributed by Mr. C. J. Blackmore)
When the Hon. Duncan MacIntyre officially declared the School Hall open on Saturday, 22nd February, 1969, he commented that, in keeping with Parkvale traditions, the Hall had been well warmed and used by parents and children before the official opening. This referred, of course, to the use of the school from 19th February, 1920 before its official opening on April 12th, 1920, by Hon. C.J. Parr, Minister of Education.
The first decision to build a hall was made by the School Committee in 1964. There were doubts in the minds of several parents as some felt, and still do, that priority should have been given to the remodelling and filtration of the baths. It is a credit of all concerned that, once the decision was taken, the project was vigorously pursued by most parents and school supporters.
The first major effort was the November gala in 1964 which resulted in $840 going in to the Assembly Hall fund. Shortly after this the school obtained a regular source of income in Saturday night Housie. This came as a result of Mr. Harold Mayo’s negotiations with the Parkvale Kindergarten Committee, and the Housie team was organised by Mr. R. Walker. The housie has been run for the school until February of this year with Mr. Jack Hawke organizing it for the past two years. The school is deeply in debt of these people and the scores of parents who turned out to assist in the Saturday night “opium den”. At times the resources were very thin but a hard core saw it through and it could be said that it was largely housie earnings that built the Hall.
During the first half of 1966 different school halls and plans were examined by the committee and it was unanimously decided that a Mayfair type hall would be most suitable. The plan was adapted to suit our site, thanks to Mr. Abelson, and tenders were first called in October 1966. We were disappointed when neither of the tenders received was acceptable, the price being too high. However in March 1967 four tenders were received in price from $17,120 to $25,216 and the tender of Mr. D. T. McDonald was accepted. Work began on clearing the site in April and the Hall was in use in September.
Furnishing costs in the hall were heavy and to date more than $900 has been spent on curtains, forms, chairs, heating and flooring. Donations of $135 towards this were made by ex-pupils.
Already the hall has proved a wonderful acquisition for pupil and parent functions and the many uses being made of it make one wonder how the school managed without one. With the hall now a reality, the committee have turned to their next major commitment, the remodelling and filtration of the baths.
[Photo of new hall]
Page Thirty-Three
FRIDAY
Friday, bright and clear after weeks of rain, was a comforting augury for the success of the Jubilee. Soon after one o’clock, crowds began to gather until Howard Street was lined with cars in addition to those parked within the school grounds. Seating had been provided for visitors on the lawn facing the main building, while the school children squatted in front to hear the various speakers.
Mr. Boyd, headmaster, pointed out that this was “Children’s Day”. The Jubilee was rather in the nature of a birthday, with friends from far and near coming to help with the celebrations. Parkvale had always been regarded as a “good” school; a school was only good if its children made it so, and it was the duty of the present pupils to keep the good reputation Parkvale’s earlier pupils had won for it, and carry the torch onwards to the Centennial Jubilee.
Mr. Boyd had great pleasure in introducing two visitors in Mr. E.D. Ormond, Ward member of the Education Board, and Mr. Garry, son of the first headmaster, and an old pupil himself.
Mr. Ormond spoke of his connection with Parkvale over a very long period. He conveyed his own and the Education Board’s best wishes for a successful Jubilee, and congratulated the school and its various committees for the many achievements to their credit over the years.
Mr. Garry’s address is printed in full. It is an illuminating document, throwing much light upon the early days of the school, and upon the character of a man to whom the school owes a great deal.
21 February, 1969.
Boys and Girls –
It is with humility that I stand here this afternoon to talk to you of times long gone by. I have been asked to come along to talk about the early days of the school mainly because my father was the first headmaster and I happened to be among the first pupils of the school.
This weekend, as you know, many old pupils are gathering from all parts of the world to celebrate the school’s fiftieth birthday – birthdays are always exciting things aren’t they, with parties and presents – and this is no exception.
Photo caption – ON DAIS – (Left to Right): Messrs. GARRY, BOYD and ORMOND
Page Thirty-Four
Fifty years will seem a long, long time to you, but to me it seems only the other day that I stood out in these very same playing fields along with a hundred or two other boys and girls and helped to plant the trees that now grow round the grounds – these trees under which we are gathered today.
F.A. Garry, our first headmaster, F.A.G. as he was known to many, loved children and he loved trees. He knew them all individually, their names, their strengths and their weaknesses.
It is only three years ago since he died and I know he would have loved to be with you today – to attend this birthday party.
Parkvale School, when he joined it, was a brand new school in a brand new tradition. It was the leader of its time and he set about, with terrific energy and foresight, to make it a model of all that schools should be – a task most ably carried on by successive Education Boards, headmasters, school committees, teachers and pupils.
Parkvale School today, as it always has been, is a school of which we are indeed proud. At its earliest, the school stood, a bright brick building of four classrooms, in the midst of a vast open space, a paddock with nothing else in sight but more paddocks.
A couple of houses down Howard Street were the only signs of habitation and pupils who came to school on horseback grazed their horses in the horse paddock where the school hall now stands. Two more rooms were added to the brick building in 1922 and the other classrooms came along at intervals later.
Parkvale marked the dawn of a new era in schools. Till that time schools had been drab buildings set in drab asphalt, with 70 to 80 pupils in a classroom – this was to be a new school with open playing fields and only 30 to 40 pupils per class.
Other changes of great importance also, of course, were taking place at the same time. We now take electricity, motor cars, T.V., aeroplanes and even flights to the moon as everyday amenities, but how many of you realize that when my father was a boy he knew none of these things. Travel was by horse or bicycle, or by boat – letters took weeks or even months; telephones, movie films, radio and gramophones
Photo caption – CABARET FUN
Page Thirty-Five
had not even been thought of. In fact, most of these things have only come into general use during my own lifetime.
The reason we go to school is to learn enough to be able to live successfully amongst our fellows whoever they may be and where ever they may be.
Is it any wonder, then, that not so long ago all that was needed at school was a bare basic knowledge of reading, writing and arithmetic and that is all that was taught in schools, drummed in by rule of thumb and learnt laboriously by memorizing long passages from uninteresting textbooks.
But to come back to Parkvale as I did yesterday for the first time for many years, I am met by bright sunny, cheerful faces and I find that, in essence, little has changed since my father first introduced to his school a tradition of new thinking in science and nature study, new thinking in mathematics, new thinking in art – of fun in the classroom – of education as part and parcel of living- of sport as a way of learning and of learning as a way to sport – of gardening and hobbies as an approach to learning to live.
When Parkvale first opened, Hastings Borough did have its own little electricity generating station, but horses and carts were on the streets, picks, shovels and wheelbarrows were the only method of shifting materials to build roads and railways.
Windsor Park (in those days Beatson Park) was a muddy creek with a duckpond under the pine trees in an empty paddock covered in scrub and blackberry, but I’m sure we boys had as much fun catching frogs and tadpoles on the way home from school as you can have now from the skating rink and fantasyland.
I see that today even the primers ride cycles to school. In my day we were not old enough to ride cycles until we were 8 or 9 and believe me there was not much traffic about.
On the other hand, we had to sit examinations every term and could not move up to the next standard each year unless we had passed a yearly promotion exam. Nor could we go on from primary school to High School until we had passed our proficiency exam.
It seems today that young folk are not old enough to sit examinations until they reach school certificate stage.
Your motto is “Dare to be True”.
As a closing thought let us consider this as “DARE to be True”
Parkvale’s first headmaster did just this and I would like you to follow his example.
He had faith and courage to DARE to put things in a new way – to introduce new thinking, new methods and above all to guide his pupils to dare to be true to themselves – to develop their best no matter what anyone else might think or say and successive headmasters and teachers have carried on this tradition for 50 years.
Let us think of DARE as –
D for DO – Take an active part in everything around.
A for ADVENTURE – Don’t be afraid to look for new and better way of doing things.
R for REASON – Think for yourself, work out why and how.
E for ENERGY – Get up and go for it – use your imagination, your wits and your muscles.
“This above all, to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as night the day, thou can’st not then be false to any man.”
The Jubilee Cabaret and Social…
“On with the dance – let joy be unrefined!” (Old Training College parody of the well-known line.)
Many ex-pupils made their first visit to the Y.M.C.A. Stadium on the evening of Friday, 21st February, and it was a visit that they are unlikely to forget. Flora Ross and her team had made a great job of decorating the vast hall and it was a perfect setting for the first major function of the week-end.
Les Culver’s band provided the music and entertainment, and from the first ringing of the school bell, the appearance of his two overgrown and overdressed pupils and the waltz “School Days”, everyone was with him; the creaking joints of some of the earlier brigade on Sunday were due to the vigour with which they contested the Gay Gordons and other old favourites!
There was an abundance of good spirit in the Hall and everybody over-indulged in the hearty supper provided. The Cabaret wound up happily at about 2 a.m.
Page Thirty-Six
SATURDAY
Crowds began to gather considerably before the advertised starting time. Very adequate parking arrangements within the school grounds made light of this customary trouble spot. The stage for the Official Party had been erected, in deference to old memories, under the great walnut tree which is Parkvale’s pride. Seating, covering the lawn in front of the main building, accommodated only half of the huge assembly of old pupils, ex-teachers and well-wishers gathered to honour the occasion.
Mr. Jim Blackmore, chairman of the Jubilee Committee, who was accompanied by his wife, welcomed the Official Party, Hon. Duncan MacIntyre, Minister of Lands and Mrs. MacIntyre, and Mr. R. L. Lewis, Chairman of the H.B. Education Board. He greeted all those present in the name of Parkvale, outlining the events and arrangements leading up to the decision to provide a Jubilee Hall as a mark of the esteem in which the school is held by its adherents. Mr. Lewis conveyed the
Photo captions – HON. DUNCAN McINTYRE [MacINTYRE]
SOME OF THE 1200
Page Thirty-Seven
congratulations of the Education Board to all those concerned in the project, and indeed, to all who had gathered to honour their old school. He extended the Board’s best wishes for the future of the school, its pupils and its staff.
Mr. MacIntyre, in a speech full of humorous references to his own early days, outlined the history of the district and pointed to the parallel between the opening of the Jubilee Hall and the opening of the school in 1920. In each case the building had been occupied for some considerable time before the official occasion, almost a tradition! He had great pleasure in declaring the fine jubilee hall officially open and he was certain it would be a wonderful asset, not only to the school, but to the Parkvale district in general.
Following the opening, the 1200 odd gathering, spread over the school, the grounds and the new hall, renewing old friendships, laughing over old photographs displayed in the hall, gathering for decade photographs, snatching a cup of tea when opportunity offered, and generally wallowing in the pleasure of being with old pals after so many years. Tongues wagged nineteen to the dozen; puzzled faces broke into wide grins of recognition; who will forget the blush on Mr. Ruscoe’s face as he was surrounded by a host of his “girls”? One of the long-term rewards of the teacher’s life is to be remembered warmly by his old pupils – George Ruscoe reaped his reward that day – a well deserved one. Mr. Wimsett, looking younger than many of his pupils, Mrs. Baddiley, the centre of her old lollypoppers. Wally Luxton with his uncanny knowledge of all his old pupils’ names! Too many to recount – but all happy just to be there and to know they were among friends.
The Jubilee Dinner….
“Here’s to you and me and all of us, and to all who, whether they know us or not, have the divine spark of good-fellowship glowing in their hearts.”
Well, what an evening that was! From the first comparatively dignified 7 p.m. entry, through the ever- increasing crescendo of chatter and hilarity to the considerably disorganized and husky-throated farewells at midnight, this, by common consent, was a night to be remembered.
Photo caption – OLD MATES
Page Thirty-Eight
Proceeds opened with cocktails served to the ever-growing crowd until it filled half of the large Y.M.C.A. Hall to an almost uncomfortable degree when jolted drinks were the order of the day. No one seemed to mind; pace and sound quickened and heightened until dinner was due to be served. Buffet tables were laid out in tempting fashion on the second half of the floor, the idea, very wisely, being that movement in no way be restricted and that visitors therefore could still “eat, meet, and greet” It was then discovered, however, that it was quite impossible to hear the projected speeches, toasts and replies owing to the volume of sound which had, by this time, begun to defy the belief that well-oiled machinery runs silently. The Mayor, Mr. Ron Giorgi, was heard to comment, after an abortive attempt, that never had any of his public utterances given him less trouble than this one – and the rejoinder, sotta voce, that none had ever given so much pleasure to his audience.
Dinner was an ambulatory affair- friends greeting friends, plate in hand, so that portions of the meal were contributed by several tables. Brains were racked for names, backs were slapped while ecstatic squeals told of feminine recognition in a score of milling groups. As the evening waxed faster and “furiouser”, Ron Giorgi was heard to mutter that he now knew why wives and/or husbands were not permitted unless old pupils. We understand it is possible that, as a result of many of the photographs taken during the evening, numerous Court proceedings may be taken!
The meal tables had been copiously and tastefully stocked. The wine tables were likewise, so that old teachers and pupils were soon finding qualities in one another they had not known previously existed! It would be safe to claim that few gatherings can have possessed a warmer spirit of friendship, of more complete freedom from stiffness or formality. If the intention of the Jubilee Committee was to give everyone an opportunity to meet everybody else in happy surroundings, it planned wisely and well, and its members must have felt the glow of satisfaction that comes from the knowledge of a job well done. It will live long in the memories of some of the 750 old Parkvaleites privileged to attend.
SUNDAY
Sunday dawned overcast, but, fortunately, remained dry for the final gathering of the jubilee festivities- the Church Service and dedication of the Memorial Plaque in honour of old pupils who gave their lives in the service of mankind. Again the stage was laid under the walnut tree, with the members of the Hastings Citizens Band grouped to the left. The presiding minister was the Rev.[Reverend] W.R. Laws, at one time Dux of the school, and now of Christchurch. He was assisted by Rev. P.S. Barker, of Napier, also an old pupil, Rev. A.B. Pyewell, and Rev. J.S. Hosking, of Hastings.
The service, attended by some 450 old pupils and teachers, was a very impressive one; there was a ring of sincerity not always present on such occasions. Rev. Laws chose for his address the school motto, Dare To be True. He pointed out that Daring, or Courage, and Truth were as opposite sides of the same coin. It was impossible to have one without the other. The builders of the Parkvale tradition had amply demonstrated both qualities, and it behoved the present and coming generations of school children to follow their example.
The Memorial Plaque was then unveiled and dedicated to old pupils of Parkvale who had given their lives in the service of mankind. This plaque will later be mounted within the Jubilee Hall where it will serve as a lasting reminder to the children of Parkvale, of the value their forbears placed upon the virtue of unselfishness and care for others.
As the gathering lingeringly thinned and small knots quietly took their farewells, it must have been uppermost in the minds of all – this has been a weekend we shall not ever forget. When shall we all meet again?
Page Thirty-Nine
Precis of Address by Rev. W.R. Laws, M.A., B.D.
In likening his remarks to a school essay, Rev. Laws described the INTRODUCTION as thanksgiving for Parkvale and all it had meant for its first 50 years; the BODY – Courage and Truth; the CONCLUSION – Vision.
The old school, its teachers, committee members, caretakers, fellow pupils, had enlarged the horizons and enriched the lives of every child who had passed through its doors. When, to this, was added the joy of revisiting the loved scenes of childhood, being near the familiar places, the Tukituki, Cape kidnappers, the Ngaruroro, Waimarama – it was not surprising that so many had found joy during this weekend.
Courage and Truth were implicit in the school motto “Dare To Be True”. Although outward conditions change, computers and programmed education replace slates and table charts, the fundamental values- honesty, integrity, dependability, remain constant, in fact are even more needed in this age than ever before.
Without denying the virtue of physical courage – the speaker stressed that of moral courage- less spectacular perhaps, but more difficult to practice. We were taught to seek truth, to find it, and to follow it. We were taught by the example of our teachers and fellows to value this courage, to avoid exaggeration which is a cloak for a lie, never to speak or write what we did not know to be true.
Those who gained most from their school days were those with Vision – the power to see beyond the surface. This is more commonly an adult quality – wisdom is seldom the mark of youth. Vision will show us what is required to make our world a happier place. “Is it too much to hope that the teachers of the future at Parkvale will succeed, not only in imparting knowledge and wisdom, in exhibiting courage and truth, but in inspiring their pupils with high and lofty vision, that will help to give meaning to their schooling and education, and purpose to the whole of their lives. Pray God that it may be so for the sake of this city, this district, and these Islands of ours beneath the Southern Cross.”
Thoughts from Abroad.
Although there must have been very many unofficial letters of regret at inability to be present at the Jubilee, listed below are a few of those from overseas. All expressed this regret, stressed their affection for their old school and classmates, and wished to be remembered even if unable to be there in person.
Clive Tucker, from Ontario, Canada.
Althea Nalder (Sinclair), from Australia.
Janet Roberts (Holmes) from Suffolk, U.K.
Lynn Olsen, from Singapore.
Harry Stevenson, from Malvern, Australia.
Photo caption – REV. W. LAWS CONDUCTING DEDICATION SERVICE
Page Forty
Roll Call…
Owing to the time consuming nature of Roll Calls, and considerable doubt as to their value when time is precious, it was decided to dispense with lists of names. This applies not only to the names of those attending the Jubilee itself, but to lists of ex-teachers, thanks largely to the incomplete nature of the records and the probability of unfortunate omissions. Exceptions have been made in the case of HEADMASTERS, of whom a list was easily available and is printed below, and of DUX MEDALLISTS, who are also listed.
Headmasters of Parkvale School 1919-1969
L.F. Peglar [Pegler] (Hastings D.H.S.) 1919
F.A. Garry 1920-1924
W.J. Driller 1924
A.E. Day 1924-1927
G.H. Lord 1927-1932
N. Barton 1932-1933
W.B. Roe 1933-1949
*E.C. Miller 1950-1954
*J. Izatt 1954-1965
*R.A. Boyd 1966-
*Present at Jubilee.
Dux Medallists 1920-1953
1920 – Gladys Heard
1921 – Gretta Wilson
1922 – Bertram Greenfield
1923 – Angus McBean
1924 – Ralph Stevenson
1925 – Nan P. Allison
1926 – Gladys Symes
1927 – William Laws
1928 – Zora Symons
1929 – Delores McQuarrie
1930 – Dorothy Copp
1931 – Joan Wyatt
1932 – H. Lovell-Smith
1933 – A. Christensen
1934 – Ian Taylor
1935 – Margaret Cunningham
1936 – Alan T. Proffitt
1937 – Colin Anderson
1938 – Margaret McCartney
1939 – Shirley Henderson
1940 – Bruce Comrie
1941 – Leonard Hodson
1942 – Gordon Black
1943 – Ngaire Dudding
1944 – Maurice Knuckey – also Kings Scholarship
1945 – Bill Dawson
1946 – Shirley Black
1947 – Jonathan Cohen
1948 – Ian Harris
1949 – Roy Dunningham
1950 – Colleen Caves
1951 – Janet Holmes
1952 – Noelle Brodie
1953 – Jennifer Haig
1953 – Judith Mooney
After 1953 the Dux award was discontinued as the school was “decapitated”, that is the Form 1 and 2 pupils attended Intermediate.
Photo caption – Left to Right: R.A. BOYD, E.C. MILLER, J. IZATT
Page Forty-One
THE CARNIVAL IS OVER
Well, it’s over, and like you, I can hardly believe it. As I look out of the window on this Sunday afternoon, 22nd February, 1969, the school grounds are deserted and the misty rain that threatened this morning’s Church Service is dampening the playgrounds, now silent and rather forlorn. An empty school always has a cold, rather melancholy atmosphere and this is even more noticeable after the warmth and excitement of the last three days. A Parkvale Dux Medal dated 1920, some contributed photographs and some lost property (ladies evening gloves!) on the desk in front of me assure me it has indeed really happened. The Carnival is over.
The Jubilee Committee was formed in October, 1967, the functions for the weekend were soon agreed upon, and sub-committees formed. Meetings were held monthly, scores of motions were adopted (and dozens rescinded!) and steadily the problems were ironed out and details arranged. The splendid functioning of the committee was a great credit to Mr. Jim Blackmore, the chairman, and to every member of the committee. The task was a very large one and the success of the enterprise was due to the tolerance, co-operation, and sheer hard work of every member of the team. Outstanding contributions were those of Mrs. Winifred Pomeroy, the Registration Secretary, Mrs. Lorna Higgins, the treasurer, and the Napier members who travelled many miles to give their assistance.
But above all else it was the spirit that you, the ex-pupils of Parkvale, bought to the weekend that made this Jubilee so happy and memorable. The friendship, warmth and affection with which you met made the weekend the success it was and I thank you all for returning to your school and creating this splendid atmosphere.
Memories of the week-end? – I hope you have many happy ones. I shall always remember the pleasure on the faces of the 1919-1920 contingent throughout the week-end – the joy of Mrs. Pomeroy meeting those who had been on her mailing list for two or three years – Gilbert Lloyd’s benign smile as he moved from group to group – Vic Boag smoothing his silvery mane and asking a less endowed colleague if he had a comb – the young squire who whisked an ex-teacher off to dance with “Gee you’re quite beautiful – I used to think you were an old bag when you taught me” – Mrs. Grace Symons pointing out to her family the leading Parkvale orchard raiders of the 1920s – Mrs. Baddiley’s smile as she met hundreds of her “family” on Saturday night – Keith Garry’s satisfaction that the tree and grounds programme begun by his father in 1920 had been pursued – Hon. Duncan MacIntyre’s stern warning as he left the Jubilee dinner “Don’t let them cut down the trees” – frantic but vain efforts to obtain order at the dinner for the toast to the school by His Worship Mr. Giorgi, and the reply by Mr. Lloyd – George Ruscoe’s diplomatic sparring with the continual question “Do you remember me, Mr. Ruscoe?” Ralph Stevenson’s face alight with pleasure as he moved from group to group – handshakes, puzzled frowns, exclamations, prodding of middle-aged spreads and shrieks of delight. All this and more was part of the week-end scene.
The future? The school will always be here and I hope you will not wait 50 years before you visit us again. We welcome any old pupil who would like to visit the school at any time.
The next Jubilee? That’s over to you, but perhaps we could think of February 1979 and consider the celebrating of our 60th birthday.
On behalf of the staff, school committee and present day pupils I offer our congratulations on your Jubilee and thank you for your wholehearted participation in it.
With best wishes to you all,
R.A. BOYD, Headmaster.
Page Forty-Two
A Farewell from the Jubilee Committee…
Parkvale has celebrated its 50th birthday in a fitting manner. The people who attended did so much with such gay abandon that the success of the function was assured from the very first moment.
During the last days before the jubilee, members of the committee had many anxious moments. I am happy to say now, that these were needless worries. You, the people who came to renew school day acquaintances and to see the old school again, made this jubilee a joyous and memorable occasion.
This “invasion” has re-charged the spirit of loyalty to Parkvale, and I am sure that this will assist the school to look forward with confidence to the next 25 years of progress.
J.G. BLACKMORE, Chairman.
Photo caption – THE JUBILEE COMMITTEE
Back Row: Gordon Black, Bill Symons, Bill Cummins, Jack Usherwood, Dave McMillan, Gilbert Lloyd, Bob Boyd, Chas. Davis, John Izatt, Harold Robinson.
Second Row: Zelda Houston (Spence), Marjorie Scott, Flora Ross, Lorna Higgins (Usherwood)
Winifred Pomeroy (Vyner), Laura Arnott (Younge).
Front Row: Marion Symons, Jim Blackmore, Nellie Moran (Baddiley). Absent: Harry Hollier.
Page Forty-Three
Acknowledgements…
SEATING FOR THE HALL.
During the early stages of jubilee preparations donations were given for the purchase of chairs for the hall. This was found to be not in line with the School Committee’s furnishing plans and at their suggestion the funds were used to purchase six padded chairs for the stage (used at the Opening Ceremony) and ten more 5’6” forms for the hall.
Donations for these ($135) are gratefully acknowledged and the donor’s names have been recorded by the committee.
Thanks to Gladys Hickling (Heard) for presenting the first Parkvale Dux Medal (1920) to the school.
SCHOOL STAFF
The voluntary work done by the school staff before and during the jubilee was invaluable and was greatly appreciated, particularly the efforts of Mr. Weenink and his team of parking attendants. The jubilee involved the staff in many extra tasks and some inconvenience and their cheerful co-operation contributed to the success of the weekend.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE AND HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION.
There were some worried men on the Committee as the rain continued through February but by working during the week-ends and evenings the driveway was leveled and partly concreted, the hall surrounds were tidied up for the jubilee and assistance was given in the working parties of the week-end.
Mrs. Scott had a grand team of parents with her and they staffed the Registration and Magazine table during the week-end as well as dispensing cups of tea and coffee. Some of the kitchen team, who washed dishes steadily for two hours, vow they will vote for disposable cups for the next jubilee! Many thanks to you all.
The many organisations and individuals from whom we have obtained equipment and services are too numerous to mention individually, but we sincerely thank you one and all for helping us to organise a memorable weekend.
Finally, we are deeply indebted to Mr. John Izatt, the previous Headmaster of the school, who has made such a wonderful job of this Jubilee Magazine. It has entailed months of research and writing, and with assistance from Mr. F.K. Bromley, Mr. Izatt has complied a splendid history of Parkvale’s first 50 years
Photo captions – FRONT COVER: Parkvale from the air – 1955
BACK COVER: Master Paul Rosvall, Std. 1, at the main gates on the opening day of the jubilee
Page Forty-Four
IN MEMORIAM
Many past pupils and teachers of the school served their country overseas in the fight for freedom. In the words of the Memorial Plaque, many “gave their lives in the service of mankind”. Desirable as it would have been, it has been impossible to compile a complete roll of honour. This humble recognition is a memoriam for all who made the final sacrifice.
They shall not grow old,
As we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun,
and in the morning,
We will remember them
– Lawrence Binyon.
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Description
Surnames in this booklet –
Abelson, Adams, Agnew, Allison, Anderson, Archer, Armstrong, Arnott, Atmore, Baddiley, Bain, Barker, Barron, Bartlett, Barton, Bates, Batson, Batten, Beatson, Beeby, Bell, Benson, Beuth, Binyon, Bird, Black, Blackmore, Blummont, Boag, Boland, Bond, Boyd, Breed, Brenchley, Brodie, Bromley, Brown, Brunton, Campbell, Castle, Castles, Caves, Chappell, Christensen, Coddington, Cohen, Comrie, Cooper, Copp, Cullen, Culver, Cummins, Cunningham, Davis, Dawkins, Dawson, Day, de Montalk, Douglas, Driller, Dudding, Dunn, Dunningham, Ebbett, Ewen, Faram, Fergusson, Findlay, Fletcher, Foster, Fraser, Frethey, Frizzell, Garrod, Garry, Gasparich, Gibbon, Giorgi, Grayland, Greenfield, Growcott, Haig, Hall, Hamilton, Hawke, Heard, Henderson, Higgins, Hill, Hillary, Hodgkinson, Hodson, Hollier, Holmes, Horan, Hosking, Houston, Howard, Hurdsfield, Izatt, Jobling, Jones, Kelt, Kinsella, Knuckey, Lane, Langford, Laws, Lay, Leipst, Lewis, Lloyd, Lord, Lovell-Smith, Lowe, Luxton, MacDonald, MacIntyre, Mack, Mackersey, Maddison, Marriott, Massey, Masters, Maxwell, Mayo, McArthur, McBean, McCartney, McCaskill, McClune, McCormick, McDonald, McKay, McLeod, McMillan, McQuarrie, Mead, Mill, Miller, Milner, Mine, Mooney, Moran, Morgan, Morris, Mulcahy, Nalder, Nathan, Neil, Nielson, Nottingham, O’Neill, Olsen, Ormond, Owen, Owens, Page, Parker, Parr, Paul, Paynter, Peach, Peglar, Pegler, Phillips, Pomeroy, Priest, Proffitt, Pyewell, Ribbands, Risman, Roach, Roberts, Robinson, Roe, Ross, Rosvall, Rowe, Rule, Ruscoe, Sargisson, Savage, Scott, Shakespeare, Sherriff, Simpson, Sinclair, Sivewright, Skinner, Smith, Steenson, Steere, Stevenson, Strachan, Sutherland, Symes, Symons, Taggart, Taylor, Thomas, Thompson, Trim, Tucker, Usherwood, Venables, Viner, Vyner, Wake, Walker, Wallace, Walsh, Warner, Weaver, Webb, Weenick, Wheeler, Whetter, Whetton, Wilkins, Williams, Wilson, Wimsett, Windsor, Wyatt, Wybrott, Young, Younge
Abbreviations –
Ed. Bd. – Education Board
F 1 etc – Form 1
H. & S. – Home and School
H.B. – Hawke’s Bay
H.M. – Headmaster
Hon. – Honourable
M.V. – Motor Vessel
Mt. – Mount
N.Z. – New Zealand
P 1 etc – Primer 1
P.M. – Prime Minister
P.O. – Post Office
phys. ed. – physical education
R.S.A – Returned Servicemen’s Association
Rd. – Road
rep. – representative
Rev. – Reverend
S 1 etc – Standard 1
Snr. – Senior
sq. yard – square yard
Stds – Standards
v. – versus
Y.M.C.A. – Young Men’s Christian Association
Subjects
Business / Organisation
Parkvale SchoolFormat of the original
BookletDate published
1969Accession number
858/969/44792Supporters and sponsors
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