check Hutt Grammar and Commercial School as well
Hutt City Library Oneline Database
Main Title: Old Taita School reunion 1859-1972: souvenir
Imprint: 1972
Notes: Indexes: Filing Cabinet
Summary: History of Old Taita School, now replaced by Taita Intermediate on the former site. The Primary School, Avalon stands on what was once I. Wilson”s market garden in Gordon Street.Ill. 2 copies.
Language: English
Subject: Taita Central Primary School
J Cottle
Schools — Primary — Taita
Heritage resources
–
also book
Hutt City Library Online Database
Main Title: Avalon School
Imprint: 1955
Notes: Indexes: E17
Summary: The original Taita School.
Language: English
Subject: Schools — Primary
Heritage resources
Hutt City Council Online Database
Main Title: Centenary of the old Taita School
Imprint: 20-Oct-62
Notes: Indexes: Filing Cabinet
Language: English
Subject: Schools — Primary — Taita
Heritage resources
Hutt City Library Online Database
Main Title: School fire recalled as 50th Jubilee planned
Imprint: 1997
Notes: Indexes: Filing Cabinet
Summary: Planning for the 1998 50th Jubilee is hindered by the loss of records in February 1979. Lorraine Nikera”s memories of the event as a new principal at that time.Ill.
Language: English
Subject: Taita Central Primary School
Lorraine Nikera
Joyce Carter
Stan Foote
Schools — Primary — Taita
Heritage resources
Hutt City Library Online Database
Main Title: Of surprise tomato salvos and sooner or later centennials
Imprint: 1992
Notes: Indexes: Filing Cabinet
Summary: Taita School (the site is now Avalon Intermediate) and a former principal Stephen McDonnell. (includes photo)
Language: English
Subject: Taita
Taita
Heritage resources
Record Title : Boys and girls in a classroom at Eastern Hutt School, Lower Hutt
Reference Number : 1/2-062555-F
Display Dates : 1920
Quantity : 1 b&w original negative(s)
Physical Description : Film negative
Scope & Contents : Boys and girls in a classroom at Eastern Hutt School, Lower Hutt, in 1920. Children and photographer, unidentified.
Restrictions : Unrestricted
File Print : File print available in Turnbull Library Pictures (42. Lower Hutt. Schools. Eastern Hutt. 1920 ; PFP-022838)
Collection Record : MacAlister, Ria :Photographs of the MacAlister family. (PAColl-5081)
Collection Status : PART OF COLLECTION
Issue Status : Issuable ITEM
Digital Copy : Digital copy available
Names : Eastern Hutt School (Subject)
Subjects : School children
Schools – New Zealand – Wellington Region
Blackboards
Classrooms – New Zealand – Wellington Region
Place : Lower Hutt
Image/Type : Group portraits
Digital Objects : View archived copy online
from web site http://tapuhi.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/spydus/FULL/GLOBAL/OPCOMB/18/689974,314 Accessed: 30 May 2011
– unsure if Taita School
Record Title : Boys and girls in a classroom at Eastern Hutt School, Lower Hutt
Reference Number : 1/2-062556-F
Display Dates : 1920
Quantity : 1 b&w original negative(s)
Physical Description : Film negative
Scope & Contents : Boys and girls in a classroom at Eastern Hutt School, Lower Hutt, in 1920. Children and photographer, unidentified.
Historical Notes : Note on back of file print reads “Free period. 2nd year after phonic work started. Taken about May at Eastern Hutt School. Primer I, II, and IV.”
Restrictions : Unrestricted
File Print : File print available in Turnbull Library Pictures (42. Lower Hutt. Schools. Eastern Hutt. 1920 ; PFP-022841)
Collection Record : MacAlister, Ria :Photographs of the MacAlister family. (PAColl-5081)
Collection Status : PART OF COLLECTION
Issue Status : Issuable ITEM
Digital Copy : Digital copy available
Names : Eastern Hutt School (Subject)
Subjects : School children
Schools – New Zealand – Wellington Region
Classrooms – New Zealand – Wellington Region
Place : Lower Hutt
Image/Type : Group portraits
Digital Objects : View archived copy online
from web site http://tapuhi.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/spydus/FULL/GLOBAL/OPCOMB/18/689987,315 Accessed: 30 May 2011
– unsure if Taita school
also check AA Taita Academy
Wellington Independent 15 June 1860
The Taita.— A very successful lecture was delivered in Mr. Robinson”s school room, at the Taita, on the 7th instant, by the Rev. H. W. Scott. Some new and interesting proverbs formed the staple of an hour and a half”s amusiug and profitable discourse, at the close of which a unanimous request was preferred for another lecture, at an early date. The school room which will hold upwards of fifty persons, was crammed, and almost as many had to go away being unable to obtain admittance.
Wellington Independent 8 February 1861
Taita School Gathering. — The annual Tea Meeting in connection with the Taita day school, was held in the school room on Thursday, January 17th, when there was a full attendance of scholars and their friends. After an abundant tea, cricket and other rustic games engaged the attention of the youngsters until dusk, — and the proceedings of a happy holiday, were terminated by a lecture on “The Life and Times of John Bunyan,” delivered by the Rev. H. W. Scott. Votes of thanks to the lecturer, and to the choir of the Wesleyan Church, for their efficient vocal and instrumental service were passed, and all separated, gratified, and we hope benefitted, by the enjoyments of the day.
Wellington Independent 12 July 1864
NOTICE
A PUBLIC MEETING will be held at Buckeridge”s Long Room, on Monday, the 18th inst., at 7 o”clock, p.m., for the purpose of considerating the propriety of establishing a Public School in the Taita,
Signed
Wm. Whitewood
George Buck
William Beetham
W. R. Welch
Peter Bruce
Robert McCulloch
Taita, July 9, 1864
Wellington Independent 11 August 1864
Notice
The Subscribers to the Taita School Building Fund are respectfully requested to pay the amount of their donations to any of the undermentioned members of the School Committee, with as little delay as possible.
Mr McCullock Mr William Welch
Mr Geo. Buck Mr William Cleland
Mr David Hughey Mr William Milne
William Beetham,
Chairman
August 10, 1864
Wellington Independent 24 September 1864
TO BUILDERS AND CARPENTERS
SEALED TENDERS are solicited for erecting School Rooms and Dwelling House at the Taita, Hutt.
Plans and specifications may be seen at Mr G. Buck”s, Taita.
Tenders will be received up to the 15th October, addressed as such to the Chairman.
The Committee do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any tender, if not within their means.
WILLIAM BEETHAM,
Chairman
Taita, Sept. 23, 1864
Wellington Independent 31 January 1865
Wanted a SCHOOL MASTER and MISTRESS for the Taita School. A Married couple preferred. Salaries 150 pounds and 50 pounds respectively with residence.
Testimonials and References to be addressed to
W. CLELAND,
Hon. SEC., School Committee.
Taita, Hutt Valley, Wellington,
January 30, 1865
Wellington Independent 1 July 1865
LOWER HUTT PUBLIC SCHOOL.
A general public meeting of the subscribers to this school was held in the school-room on the 26th inst, A. Ludlam, Esq., in the chair.
Mr H. Cleland, Chairman of the Managing Committee for the past year, stated that in addition to the ordinary business of the school, he regretted to report the resignation of Mr and Mrs Harrington, as teachers of the school, in consequence of the ill health of the former, which the Committee much regretted, as through their great exertions the school had been brought into a most excellent state of organization, and the intellectual improvement of the school was admitted by all connected with the scholars. The Committee, under the circumstances, had accepted the resignation of that lady and gentleman, and had advertised for teachers in one of each of the Auckland, Christchurch, Nelson, and Otago newspapers, and also in two of the Wellington papers, the Independent and Advertiser. Thirty applications had been received, and the Committee, having maturely taken into consideration the testimonials of the different applicants, had elected Mr and Mrs G. Williams, of Auckland, as the master and mistress of the Lower Hutt School. The Committee had given the preference to Mr and Mrs Williams because they had conjointly taught a school in England for five years under the Government regulations, and that Mr Williams was the only applicant who offered a certificate from her Majesty”s Inspectors of Schools, and which certificate extends over six years, and is signed by different Inspectors at various dates, within that period, the last extending to the 6th of June, 1861 Your Committee are happy to inform you that when the Provincial Government School Inspector examined the different classes of the School (including the infants in charge of Miss Detchon) he expressed himself highly pleased with the progress that had been made, and stated that the School was in much better order than any he had inspected. Your Committee would also beg to add that no notice had been given to the teachers previous to the Inspector”s visit.
That the receipts during the past year amount to £291 3s Od, (including the Government aid,) which after paying £260 to the teachers and other incidental expenses, leaves a small balance in hand.
The Committee regret that there has been a very considerable falling off on the attendance of the children during the past quarter, in consequence of a few cases of Scarletina in the neighbourhood, but they hope that, as the disease is on the decrease, it will soon pass away.
Your Committee on account of the said disease, have deferred the holding of the usual annual examination of the school in the presence of the subscribers, but intend to hold an examination in two or three months, when prizes for merit &c, will be given.
Your Committee now resign into your hands the trust which you have reposed in them, and beg leave to place before you a statement of the accounts, and Mr Harrington”s report of the past year.
It was therefore proposed by Mr S. Fagan, seconded by Mr D. McKenzie, “That the subscribers to the Lower Hutt Public School desire to return their best thanks to the Chairman and members of the Committee, for their able management of the affairs of the School for the past year, to which may be attributed much of its success, and the advancement of education in the district.”
Carried.
Moved by Mr S. Fagan, seconded by Mr D. McKenzie, “That the vote of thanks to the Chairman and Committee, just passed, be entered on the minutes of the proceedings of the Committee as a record of their services.”
Carried.
Proposed by Mr H. Sanson, seconded by Mr H. Cleland, “That this meeting present a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Harrington for the praiseworthy manner in which they have discharged their arduous duties in connection with the Lower Hutt School for the past two years, and that the Committee be requested to prepare a certificate expressive of the satisfactory progress the children have made while under their tuition, and also of the regret of the parents that they are obliged, in consequence of the ill health of Mr Harrington, to resign their offices in the School.” Carried.
Proposed by Mr J. Cole, seconded by Mr Barber, “That Messrs S. Fagan, H. Cleland, J. Knight, T. Burt, D. McKenzie, W. Hunt, L. Potts, G. Copeland, J. Cudby, H. Sanson, H. Collett, J. Townsend, J. Acourt, and T. C. Trott, form the School Committee for the ensuing year.”
Carried.
The business of the evening having terminated Mr Ludlam remarked that, although he was chairman he hoped they would permit him to offer a few words. He begged to call the attention of the meeting to the fact that during his long residence in the Hutt sundry attempts had been made to establish schools on the Denominational system all of which had signally failed but he was happy to say that this School was a complete success, which he considered was in a very great measure owing to the unanimous working of the Committee. He strongly advocated the policy of giving prizes to the deserving scholars, and that he would give £5 to assist in carrying out this praiseworthy object. Proposed by Mr H. Cleland. Seconded by Mr L. Potts:- “That the thanks of this meeting be given to the Chairman for his liberal donation and also for his conduct in the chair”. Carried.
Wellington Independent 13 July 1865
Private Academy at the Hutt.—
Mr Harrington having left the public school in which he has acted as principal for the last two years, recently opened his residence, Fern Grove, Lower Hutt, as a private Boarding and Day School, where twenty-five young gentlemen can be instructed in all the branches of a sound English education, so that they may be fitted for a counting house or any respectable business pursuit. Mr Harrington possesses great experience as a successful public and private teacher, and on his resigning the Lower Hutt School, owing to ill-health, the following resolution was unanimously carried by the School Committee:- “That this meeting present a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Harrington for the praiseworthy manner in which they have discharged their arduous duties in connection with the Lower Hutt School for the past two years, and that the Committee be requested to prepare a certificate expressive of the satisfactory progress the children have made while under their tuition, and also of the regret of the parents that they are obliged, in consequence of the ill-health of Mr Harrington, to resign their offices in the School.”
Wellington Independent 21 June 1866
NOTICE
A MEETING of the subscribers to the Lower Hutt Public School, will be held in the MECHANICS” INSTITUTE, on MONDAY, JULY 2nd, 1866, at seven o”clock p.m., for the purpose of appointing a School Committee for the ensuring years; and the transaction of any other business connected with the School.
HENRY SANSON,
Honorary Secretary.
Wellington Independent 14 July 1866
HUTT PUBLIC SCHOOL
An adjourned public meeting in connection with the Hutt Public School, was held recently in the Mechanics” Institute, Lower Hutt.
In the absence of Mr. G. W. Allen, Mr. S. Fagan was called to the Chair. The Chairman, after stating the object of the meeting, called upon Mr. Henry Sanson, to read the following report
Report oF Public School Committee.
Your Committee, in reporting their proceedings during the past year, would congratulate the parents and friends of children attending the above school, on the success which has attended their efforts to promote the interests of the rising generation.
It will be remembered by the parents that at the end of last year Mr. and Mrs. Harrington were obliged in consequence of Mr. Harrington”s ill-health, to resign their offices in the school. The then Managing Committee made arrangements with Mr. and Mrs. Williams to take charge of the school on the 1st of July, 1865. The number of names on the register at that time was eighty-five the average daily attendance during the first three months was fifty-eight. Your Committee think that the low average attendance during that period is attributable to scarlatina and other sickness, which visited the Hutt at that time.
In the quarter ending the 31st December, 1865, there were 107 names on the school register the average daily attendance during that quarter was ninety-one, being the highest throughout the year.
In the quarter ending 31st March 1866, there were 109 names on the register; the average daily attendance for that quarter was eightythree.
In the quarter ending 30th June, the number on the book was 110; the daily average attendance was the same as the quarter ending 31st March, making an average daily attendance throughout the year of seventy-nine.
Your Committee, owing to the falling off of the scholars during the first quarter, was compelled to dispense with the services of Miss Ditchon from the end of October last.
During the second quarter, the attendance increased, so that the Committee wrote to the Government, after the promulgation of the new regulations, asking if they would assist by paying half the salary of the assistant, to which they consented, with the understanding that the salary should be £80 per annum. Your Committee have therefore engaged Mrs. Morgan, on the recommendation of the Government School Inspector, from the 31st of March last, as third teacher in the school.
Your Committed would beg leave to inform you that the salaries of the teachers amount to £315 per annum, including house rent. The incidental expenses for the past year were £45 15s 4d, of which amount the Government at present pay one-half. The total receipts for the year are £280 6s 2d; balance of account from last quarter, £35 14s 6d. Total expenditure, £306 12s. Balance in hands of Treasurer, £9 14s 1d; value of books on hand, £20 12s 3d.
Your Committee would impress upon the subscribers the propriety of giving power to the Committee for the ensuing year to raise the subscriptions if necessary.
Your Committee would also call the attention of subscribers to the necessity of payment in advance, as no money can be drawn from the Government until the teachers have received half-due by the Committee, and signed by the same.
Your Committee hesitate not to say that the teachers they have been able to procure for the School are second to none in the Province of Wellington. They, therefore, hope to receive that cordial co-operation from parents and friends of children attending this school, which alone can secure the welfare of the Institution.
Your Committee now beg to resign the trust you have reposed in them.
Henry Sanson, Hon, Secretary.
July 11th, 1866.
–
It was proposed by Mr. J. Clement, and seconded by Mr. R. Robinson – “That the report now read be adopted.”
Carried.
The meeting then elected the following gentlemen as a Managing Committee for the ensuing year:- Messrs. G. W. Allen, J. Clement, H. Sanson, J. Acourt, N. Valentine, S. Fagan, T. Burt, W. Hunt, H. Cleland, J. Cudby, L. Potts, H. Collett, J. Knight, E. Robinson.
The late Chairman, Mr. H. Cleland, then read a letter from the Government School Inspector, the purport of which was, that the Government will not assist any school beyond £75 per annum.
Proposed by Mr. H. Sanson, seconded by Mr. W. Hunt – “That a deputation be appointed to wait upon his Honor the Superintendent for the purpose of calling his attention to the fact that the teachers are engaged by the quarter, and that the Committee will be placed in an awkward position through not having a sufficient notice from the Government of their intention to reduce the allowance of this school; such deputation to consist of Messrs. L. Potts, G. Allan, S. Fagan, H. Collett, N. Valentine, and the mover.”
Carried.
Proposed by Mr. N. Valentine, seconded by Mr. Collett — “That the Committee be empowered to raise the subscriptions to meet the current expenses of the school, if necessary.”
Carried.
Proposed by Mr. Cleland, seconded by Mr. Burt — “That this meeting present a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Williams for the praise-worthy manner in which they have discharged their duties in the school.”
Carried.
The Committee agreed to meet on Friday, at 7 o”clock, p.m.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman terminated the meeting.
Wellington Independent 11 September 1866
Penny Readings. The first of a series of penny readings was held at the Taita School Room on Thursday evening last. Upwards of eighty persons were in attendance, who displayed throughout the greatest interest and attention The evening”s entertainment was commenced by an explanation of the origin of penny readings in England, the objects aimed at their modus operandi and results; the opener then showed in what respects the present series would differ from those in England, and concluded by enumerating the advantages the projectors hoped would accrue from them. Then followed selections from the “Ingoldsby Legends,” alternating with various other readings and recitations, after which the audience separated, evidently both pleased and satisfied with the manner in which they had spent the evening. Similar evenings have been enjoyed for the last five or six weeks at the Lower Hutt, and though the weather did not permit of a large audience at the beginning of the course, laterly the room has been well filled and the audience both greatly amused and instructed.
Evening Post 21 March 1867
about Penny readings
query Taita
Wellington Independent 16 April 1867
About Penny Readings
Wellington Independent 6 July 1867
NOTICE
A MEETING of the Electors of the Hutt will be held in the Mechanics” Institute on Friday, the 19th instant, at 7 o”clock p.m., for the purpose of Levying a Rate of the Houses, according to the Act of the Provincial Council, for the maintneance of the Public School in this district.
GEO. ALLEN,
N. VALENTINE,
H. COLLETT,
L. POTTS,
T. BURT.
HENRY SANSON.
Hutt, July 4, 1867
Wellington Independent 6 July 1867
THE HUTT COMMON SCHOOL.
At seven o”clock on the evening of Tuesday last, the doors of the Mechanics” Institute were opened according to advertisement, and a number of subscribers having assembled, Mr Allen took the chair. The Chairman read the notice convening the meeting, and called on the Secretary to read the report which was as follows:-
ANNUAL REPORT OF LOWER HUTT PUBLIC SCHOOL COMMITTEE, FOR THE YEAR ENDING JUNE 30TH, 1867
To the Subscribers and Friends of the above mentioned School. Your Committee feel much pleasure in being able to report so favorably of the school, and also of the success which has attended their efforts to promote the interests of the rising generation in this district during the past year. Your Committee are of opinion that the success spoken of is attributable in a great measure to the unmitigated zeal manifested by the teachers in the prosecution of their arduous duties in connection with the school.
Your Committee remember with gratitude that no epidemic has visited the Hutt during the year, to prevent the children attending the school regularly.
The number of children on the roll and in average attendance are as follows:-
Number on roll:- First quarter, 105; second quarter, 107; third quarter, 105; fourth quarter; 104 total, 421. Average number on roll, 105.
Avevage Attendance:- First quarter, 82.06; second quarter, 76.18; third quarter, 81.45; fourth quarter, 81.93; total, 321.62. Average attendance, 80.43.
Balance of account from last year, £17. The amount received by subscription, was £174 2s 6d grant from Government, £75 ordinary and £20 special, making a total of £286 2s 6d expenditure, teachers” salaries, £274 incidental expense”s, £8 total expenditure, £282. Balance, £4 2s 6d.
It will be seen by the above statement, that there are a great many children attending this school, yet the attendance is not so great as it ought to be, considering the number of families resident in the district. Your Committee consider the cause to be twofold. The first and greater is that some parents have not had any education themselves, and therefore do not sufficiently appreciate it for their children. The second is, that while some parents feel the want of education themselves, they are not able to pay for educating their children.
Your Committee trust that, as the instruction given in this school is of a high character, those parents who are able to pay for instructing their children will avail themselves of this opportunity of doing so; and that the more wealthy of the community will become subscribers to the school, and thus put themselves in a position to send some of the poorer children that they may be taught, and so prevent them from becoming pests to society, which they will do if neglected.
Your Committee would take this opportunity of thanking Messrs Ludlam, Cole, and others, for the very praiseworthy example they have set in
this respect, and hope they may long live to prove that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
The Chairman proposed and Mr Fagan seconded, that the report be adopted. Carried.
Some minor items having been disposed of, the following gentlemen were then elected to be a Managing Committee for the ensuing year:- Messrs Allen, Potts, Burt, Collett, Valentine, Sanson, Acourt, Clement, Cudby, Fagan, Compton, Tuckwell, Townsend.
The question of finance was next considered. It was shown that the present rate of subscription is inadequate to the demands of the school. The following resolution, proposed by Mr Valentine, seconded by Mr Collett, was then put and carried, “That in order to maintain the already established public school in this district, it is desirable to assess the houses within the proclaimed boundaries of the said district, according to the Education Act of the Provincial Council, and that the Secretary be requested to give the required notice, calling a meeting of electors for this purpose.”
The meeting then adjourned.
Wellington Independent 24 August 1867
Entertainment at the Taita.— On Friday evening last, the 16th inst, a musico-literary entertainment was given at the Taita school rooms, in aid of the building fund. It was well and fashionably attended, and to judge by their outward manifestations, the audience were interested and amused. The first part of the entertainment consisted of a popular lecture on London and the London streets, illustrated and interspersed with recitations and instrumental and vocal music. The lecturer performed his task with much taste, and contrived by occasional sparks of wit to keep his audience both amused and interested. Some selections from Ethiopian minstrelsy followed, the singing being exceedingly good. This is the first entertainment of the kind which has been given in the Taita, and we trust its success may encourage the promoters who deserve much credit for their excellent management — to make fresh exertions of a similar kind on future occasions. The same entertainment was repeated last Saturday.
Wellington Independent 28 September 1867
Taita School. We are glad to be able to inform our Hutt subscribers that Mr C. Russell”s Musical Entertainment, entitled “The Harp of Erin,” will be given at the Taita School Rooms, in aid of the School funds, on Monday evening next, the 30th inst. That it will prove a rich treat we have no hesitation in affirming; and we would strongly advise all who possiby can, to make an effort to attend, for they will have the satisfaction, not only of enjoying some beautiful music, but also of contributing towards the maintenance of a very useful school.
Wellington Independent 1 October 1867
…
Mr Walter Mantell, now teacher of the Taita Common (sic) School, is about to open a boarding and grammar school at Greytown, should sufficient inducement offer.
–
Wellington Independent 5 October 1867
MR MANTELL”S SCHOOL. We find that the statement in regard to Mr Walter W. Mantell, of the Taita, which we quoted in our issue of the 1st instant, from the Wairarapa Mercury, was a mistake. The gentleman referred to is establishing a grammar and boarding school, not at Greytown, but at the Hutt, as will be seen by an advertisement elsewhere, to which we would call the attention of all interested in the progress of education in the province.
Wellington Independent 2 November 1867
WANTED, on the 1st January, 1868, for the Taita Common School, a Master and Mistress. Salaries — master, £125 per annum, with residence; mistress, £75. Applications, with testimonials, to be sent to WILLIAM CLELAND, Hon. Sec., Taita School Committee.
Wellington Independent 27 February 1868
WANTED on the 1st of April, a MASTER and MISTRESS for the Taita Common School. Salaries — Master, £125; Mistress, £75 with residence. Applications with testimonials, to be sent to William Cleland, Hon. Sec., Taita School Committee, on or before the 25th of March, Taita, February 19th, 1868.
Wellington Independent 21 April 1868
Wanted a Female Teacher for the country. Must be competent to teach Music. Apply with testimonials, stating salary expected, to Master, Taita School
Wellington Independent 14 July 1868
NOTICE.
THE electors of the Lower Hutt School District are requested to attend the Annual Public Meeting of this School, which will be held in the Schoolroom on the 31st instant, for the purpose of making provision for the maintenance of the Common Sohool in this district, appointing a committee, and transacting any other business in connection therewith.
Henry Sanson
John Cole
William Wiggings
Thos. Burt
John Blatchford
Samuel J. Tocher.
July 11, 1868.
Wellington Independent 1 August 1868
NOTICE.
THE electors of the Lower Hutt School District are requested to attend the Annual Public Meeting of this School, which will be held in the Schoolroom on the 14th August, at 7 o”clock p.m., for the purpose of making provision for the maintenance of the Common Sohool in this district, appointing a committee, and transacting any other business in connection therewith.
Henry Sanson
John Cole
William Wiggings
Thos. Burt
James Knight
Samuel J. Tocher.
July 11, 1868.
could not see a article in online newspapers about this meeting called
Wellington Independent 3 September 1868
TENDERS are required for removing the Lower Hutt Public School Buildings from the present to a more suitable site.
Plans and Specifications may be seen at Mr T Burtt”s (sic), where all necessary information can be obtained.
Sealed tenders indorsed (sic) “Tenders for School”, to be sent the Chairman, Mr H. Cleland, on or before noon of the 14th instant.
H. SANSON,
Hon. Sec.
Lower Hutt, September 1, 1868.
North Otago Times 22 September 1868
A meeting of the Oamaru District School Committee was held on the 18th inst.
…
The chairman stated that the business of the meeting was the appointment of a Head Master,
…
the Committee unanimously appointed Mr R. Haswell, now master of the Taita School, at Wellington. Mr Haswell is a certificate Master from the Glasgow Training College, and is competent to instruct in Latin, French, algebra, mathematics, and music, in addition to the ordinary branches of instruction. It was further resolved that the Secretary be instructed, on behalf of the Committee, to request Mr Fleming to take charge of the school until Mr Haswell”s arrival.
…
Wellington Independent 26 September 1868
Wanted, for the Taita Common School, a MASTER and MISTRESS. Salaries – master, 125 pounds; mistress, 75 pounds, with residence. Applications, with testimonials, to be sent to WILLIAM CLELAND, Hon, SEC. Taita School Committee
Taita, September 25, 1868
Wellington Independent 30 January 1869
A MEETING of the electors of the Lower Hutt School District, will be held in the School Room, on Monday, the 22nd February next, at 2 o”clock p.m., for the purpose of considering the financial position of the School in this place.
S. Fagan
J. Cudby
T. Burt
J. A”Court
S. J. Tocker
J. Cole
H.Sanson,
Hon. Sec.
January 26th, 1869
Wellington Independent 29 June 1869
Taita Common School.— On Wednesday, the 23rd instant, the children of this school were examined by the Rev. J. E. Herring, assisted by T. C. Williams, Esq, and George Beetham, Esq., in the presence of a good assembly of the parents and friends of the pupils. The examiners expressed themselves as well pleased and satisfied with the ready manner in which their questions were answered, especially praising the “Fourth Book,” and “Fourth Supplement” classes. A carefully and thoroughly conducted “paper” examination had been carried through previously by Mr Nickless (sic), the master, the highly satisfactory results of which were tabulated, and offered for inspection; indeed, examiners, committee, and visitors testified to the fact, that the manner in which the children had acquitted themselves was very creditable to teachers and scholars. On the following day, the young folks were regaled with a “tea,” after which they separated to enjoy their midwinter holidays.
Wellington Independent 25 January 1870
Wanted, for the Taita Common School, a Master and Mistress; salary, 150 pounds per year, with residence.
Applications, with testimonials, to be sent to
GEORGE HEDGES,
Hon. Sec. Taita School Committee.
January 23, 1870
Wellington Independent 17 January 1872
JOHNSTON.- On the 8th instant, at Clevedon House, Taiti (sic), the wife of R. Johnston, Esq., of a son.
– check Hutt Grammar and Commercial School as well
Wellington Independent 25 January 1873
The Education Board and the deputation
representing the Church of England have
arrived at an understanding regarding
school matters. The schools will
accordingly be place under the control of
the Board next week.
Wellington Independent 16 July 1873
Education Board
…
In view of Mr Toomath again visiting the
Wairarapa distict, he was instructed to
have certain necessary repairs and
alterations made to the Taita and Greytown
schools.
Wellington Independent 24 November 1873
TAITA.
A correspondent writes, under date 20th November:��� At the conclusion of the afternoon service on Sunday, the Rev Mr Fancourt, on behalf of the children attending the Sunday school, presented Mr John Rayner with a magnificently illustrated Bible, as a token of their appreciation of his services as Superintendent of the Sunday school for the last fifteen years. Inside the cover there was a scroll containing 150 names of scholars that had been in attendance, but these do not comprise all the names. Mr Fancourt, in a few appropriate remarks, pointed out the value of such self-sacrificing labors in a practical directions. Mr Beetham (Hutt) explained that the Bible had been purchased with money collected by the Sunday school children, and was entirely the result of their own little subscriptions. Mr Rayner expressed his gratitude for the valuable volume which had been given him, and which he would prize highly as coming from those whom he had endeavored to instruct in accordance with its precepts.
The departure of Mr and Mrs Williams, for Sanson, will be felt by many as a loss to the neighborhood, as both were efficient teachers, and had conducted the school for upwards of three years with great credit to themselves and satisfaction to the parents. I hope they will be equally successful at Sanson, and I confess to feeling a deep interest in the welfare of this “small farm association,” and all other special settlements. In other provinces, religion and race have been found to be the best bonds for keeping little communities together. Where a minister formed the connecting link, the settlement has invariably prospered; in other cases language has kept them united, as in the case of German and Scandinavian immigrants. It remains to be seen whether a band of British settlers can work in harmony for the common weal, and become as thriving and prosperous as those possessing a common creed or speaking a foreign language.
Wellington Independent 3 March 1874
Education Board
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The letter to the Provincial Secretary
relative to the votes already passed by the
Board for school building was read, as
under:-
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Taita, in addition to 17 pounds collected
by residents 50 pounds; the Secretary
stating that the same had been verbally
sanctioned by the Provincial Secretary, but
that no written answer as yet been
received.
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Wanganui Herald 23 January 1875
We learn from the Times that out of seven candidates from the primary schools of the Province for Wellington College Scholarships, session 1875, only six presented themselves for examination, of whom the successful candidate was William H. Field, of Aramoho School, near Wanganui, he being closely followed by Rowland Sinclair, of Taita School.
check Evening Post Rowland Sinclair between 23/1 and 28/1
Evening Post 21 December 1875
BIRTH
At Taita, Wellington, on the 21st December, the wife of Mr. James L. Sinclair, of a daughter
– also check Sinclair under could be Buried at Christ Church
Evening Post 4 January 1876
Taita School Placards
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J. L. Sinclair,
Schoolmaster
Evening Post 11 March 1876
To Painters
Tenders will be received up to Saturday, the 18th March, for Painting the Taita School and School-house.
Full particulars can be obtained at the School-house, where Tenders, addressed to the Chairman of the School Committee, can be sent.
The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
Evening Post 13 April 1876
On Saturday afternoon next Mr. Sinclair, master of the Taita school, will deliver a lecture at the Terrace school on “The Economic Application of Heat.”
Evening Post 1 March 1877
The Inspector”s Report
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Mr. Sinclair”s complaint regarding Mr. Lee”s report on the Taita School was then taken. Mr. Lee”s report on this school was to the effect that several members of Mr. Sinclair”s family had alleged that they had experienced feelings of dislike on the part of Mr. Lee towards them. It was also alleged that ten pupils, who were absent on the day of inspection, were marked as “unsatisfactory.”
Mr. Lee denied that he entertained any feelings of dislike towards Mr. Sinclair or any of his family. He had marked the pupils referred to as unsatisfactory, for the simple reason that they were so.
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Evening Post 25 April 1877
Education
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TAITA.
Mr. Sinclair, the master of the Taita school, was in attendance for the purpose of making certain statements with reference to the Inspector”s report on his school. Having come into the room he said that he had given a written statement of his complaint to Mr. Pharazyn. This complaint, which he now repeated, was to the effect that on various occasions his wife, son, and daughter had been unfairly treated by Mr. Lee. His son, for instance, had been told by Mr. Lee that he was not fit to be a pupil teacher, because he could not manipulate a paper fastener. He (Mr. Sinclair) said that if he were to describe some of Mr. C. C. Graham”s statements in connection with this matter he would have to use some of the strongest expressions in the English language.
Mr. Graham asked Mr. Sinclair to explain what he meant.
Mr. Sinclair said that he meant that Mr. Graham”s statement that he (Mr. Sinclair) had told him that he had boxed his wife”s ears in the school-room, was false.
Mr. Graham said that his statement was founded on what Mr. Sinclair himself had told him.
Mr Sinclair asked to be allowed to take a copy of the written statement he had first read, but he was not allowed to do so.
Mr Sinclair then withdrew, and consideration of the matter was postponed until the Inspector could be present.
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Evening Post 6 July 1877
Education Board
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Mr. Robert Johnson, formerly of the Kaiwaewae (sic) School, was appointed to the Taita school, vice Mr. Sinclair.
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Evening Post 5 August 1878
Education Board
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Assistants (Classed).-
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Miss Boulcott, Taita School.
Classification of Pupil Teachers
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Third year (over 15 years of age)
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Annie Milne, Taita
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Evening Post 19 February 1880
Mr. Howard Haywood, during his lecture last night at the Taita school, made reference to the knowledge many people at Home have of the geography of New Zealand. He produced a letter which was addressed to a gentleman in New Zealand from his father in England “Mr. William Collins, schoolmaster, Christchurch, Longbeach, Wellington.”
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Mr. Howard Hayward paid a visit to the Taita school last night, and by the kind premission of the school committee exhibited his views of New Zealand scenery to a large audience, who paid great attention to the lecture and frequently applauded the lecturer.
Evening Post 25 February 1880
EDUCATION BOARD
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TAITA AND PETONE
A deputation waited upon the Board for the purpose of urging the necessity for erecting a new school at Taita. The deputation promised to find the necessary site and timber for the building, and the Board agreed to give the matter their favorable consideration.
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Evening Post 14 April 1881
The following retrospect of school work in the Wellington Educational District is given in Mr. Lee”s annual report of the Board of Education. He says: “Seven years have now passed since the first standard examination was made also the firqt school age has expired, and all, or nearly all, the children then attending school are now engaged in the more arduous duties of life. On the first introduction of standards 32 public schools were nominally established in the present district. The State owned no school property in the city, not a rood of land, not a building of any kind. Two Church of England schools, two Roman Catholic schools, and an infant school, the last held in the lean-to of a cottage in Hopper-street, were supported by the Board. These five schools presented 684 children for examination, of whom 219 were classed in old Standard I., and 63 in Standard II. In the Porirua and Hutt Districts, including four half-time schools, there were sixteen schools held in buildings, all of which have since been rebuilt or largely added to, except Porirua, Wainui-o-mata, and the one at Taita, which at that time was the best public school building in the whole Educational District. These sixteen schools presented 563 children, of whom 153 were classed in Standard I., and 59 in Standard II. Besides these there were, including two half-time schools, eleven in the Wairarapa, all held in very poor buildings, that at Tauherenikau being about the best, and the only one now remaining in use. These eleven schools presented 404 children, of whom 127 were classed in Standard I, and 43 in Standard II. Thus in seven years the attendance at the examination increased from 1651 to 5488 children.”
Evening Post 27 July 1881
RESULT OF PUPIL TEACHERS EXAMINATION
The report of the exmination (Mr. R. Lee and Mr. C. C. Howard) upon the result of the recent examination of pupil teachers was laid before the Education Board this morning. Following is the class-list:-
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Second Year (age over 14).-
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Nita Johnston, Taita;
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Fourth Year (age over 16).-
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Alice Frethey, Lower Hutt;
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Fifth Year (age over 17).- Anna Boulcott, Taita;
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End of Fifth Year (age over 18).- Annie Milne, Taita;
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Evening Post 26 October 1881
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The Building Committee”s report was brought up
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and 300 pounds was voted for alterations to the Taita school,
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Evening Post 18 November 1881
TO BUILDERS.
THE Education Board of Wellington invite tenders until noon of Tuesday, the 29th inst., for the erection of a teacher”s cottage at Opaki; schoolhouses at Tawa, Whiteman”s Valley, and Wallaceville; additions and alterations to the Taita School, and also for school furniture.
Plans and specifications at my office.
THOS. TURNBULL,
Architect to the Board.
Evening Post 25 January 1882
Annual Election of School Committees
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TAITA SCHOOL.
A public meeting was held last night for the purpose of electing a Sohool Committee for 1882. All the members of the late committee were re-elected, viz., Mesers. Buck, Cleland, Clement, Haines, Meager, Milne, and Ross. Mr. Milne was elected chairman, and Mr. Johnston secretary. It was decided to re-open the school as soon as the two rooms now being erected can be handed over ���� probably by the 6th February.
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Evening Post 25 October 1882
Education Board
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Additions were authorised to the following school buildings, subject to the Board”s approval of the plans of proposed alterations: – Taita School, Park Ridge School, and teacher”s residence at Featherston.
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Evening Post 18 May 1883
The results of the Civil Service examinations for April, 1883, are just published.
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The ten successful Wellington candidates placed in order of merit were as follows:
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[10th] E. A. Welch (Taita School).
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Evening Post 30 April 1884
Education Board
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Drainage works, to cost 5 pounds, were authorised at the Taita School.
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Evening Post 9 June 1884
The annual reports of the Inspectors of Schools throughout the colony for the present year have been presented to both Houses of the General Assembly.
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The Taita school is second in order of merit.
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Evening Post 24 June 1885
Education Board
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A deputation, consisting of Messrs. Ross and Miller, from the Taita School Committee waited upon the Board for the purpose of asking for the balance of the money voted for the use of the Committee (about .£15) for the erection of a shelter-shed and placing the fence in proper order. The deputation urged that the work proposed to be done would cost £25, £10 of which might be raised in the district. There was only a gorse fence round the school at present, and the playground was not divided so that the sexes might be separated. The grant was agreed to, and the deputation withdrew.
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Evening Post 22 December 1885
The Schools
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TAITA SCHOOL.
The prizes awarded to the children of the above school were distributed on Friday last by the Chairman (Mr. R. Mellow), in the presence of the teachers and the following members of the School Committee:- Messrs. W. Cleland, S. Death, J. Harris, W. S Milne, and J. H. Ross. After a few appropriate remarks, the Chairman proceeded to distribute the prizes, addressing a few words of congratulation to each of the prize-takers as they came up. The following is the prize-list: Standard VI.- Ernest Pike, Agnes Drummond, Laura Pinny, Arabella Welch. Standard V.- Forbes Johnston, Hipzibah Fisk Standard IV.- Ernest Bodman, Harry Edwards, Francis Fisk, Ada Welch. Standard III.- Norman Bodman, George Boyd Frank Clement, Frank Death, William Death, William Fisk, Isaac James, William Meager, Horace Meager, Emma Barlow, Minnie Hancock, Allison Johnston, Nellie Mabey, Ellen Martin, Ilma Ross, Jane Wright. Standard II.- Charles Drummond, Edwin Edwards, Jack King, George Hancock, George Haywood, Albert Peck, Geo Russell, Marjore (sic) Duck, Eliza Duck, Katie Russell, Agnes Russell, Hettie Russell, Jane Stevenson, Maria Webb. Standard I.- John Fisk, Edward Rouse, Herbert Tilbury, George Wright, Charles Watson, Sophia Burt, Ethel Burt, Amy Death, Amy Hancock, Alice James, Connie Mellow, Minnie Russell, Maggie Ross. Special prizes were awarded to Laura Pinny and Alick (sic) Ross, for being the most popular and best-behaved girl and boy in the school. This decision was arrived at by vote, the girls voting for Laura Pinny, and the boys for Alick Ross The distribution having been made, the children sang ” Home Sweat Home” with great taste. The head teacher, Mr. Johnston, entertained the children to a tea at 5 p.m., to which ample justice was done. After games, &c, they proceeded homeward, evidently delighted with their evening”s outing. An entertainment was also given by the same gentleman in the evening; to the heads of families and young people in the district. After having spent a very pleasant evening the company broke up at 12.30 a.m. At the examination of the school on the 16th October, out of 60 presented 53 passed, which may be considered very satisfactory.
Evening Post 29 April 1886
School Committee Elections
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TAITA DISTRICT.
A meeting of householders of the Taita School District was held at the school buildings last Thursday evening, when there was a large attendance. The late Committee”s report was laid before the meeting and unanimously adopted, and a vote of thanks passed for their past services. The following gentlemen were returned as a committee for the ensuing year:- Messrs. W. Cleland, J. Clement, S. Russell, R. T. Mellow, S. Martin, S. Death, G. Hooper. Subsequently the Committee elected Mr. R. T. Mellow Chairman and Mr. Wm. Cleland Secretary and Treasurer.
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Evening Post 20 October 1886
Education Board
Wellington, 18th October, 1886
Applications, stating qualifications and experience, will be received at this office up to MONDAY, the 25th inst., for the following appointments:-
Teacher, Taita School – Attendance, 74; salary, about 200 pounds and residence
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Evening Post 27 October 1886
Reports on a number of schools recently examined by Mr. Lee, the Inspector, were laid before the Board of Education this morning.
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The examination at the Taita School resulted very satisfactorily.
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Evening Post 27 October 1886
Board of Education
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A vote of 2 pounds was made to Miss Welch, a sixth standard girl, who filled the place of a pupil teacher at the Taita School during the illness of the latter.
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Evening Post 30 October 1886
Mr. Johnston, late of the Taita, will assume charge of the Kaiwarra School on Monday next, and on and the same day Mr. Barry, late of Kaiwarra, will enter upon his duties as headmaster of the Lower Hutt School. Miss Johnston, the senior pupil teacher, will be in charge of the Taita School until another master has been appointed.
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Evening Post 30 October 1886
A pleasing ceremony took place last Thursday at the Taita School in the form of a presentation of a handsome clock by the children to the head teacher, Mr. R. Johnston. The clock was presented by the Chairman, Mr. R. T. Mellow, on behalf of the children, the Secretary, Mr. W. Cleland, being also present. The Chairman made a few appropriate remarks. Addressing Mr. Johnston, he said he had been deputed by the children to ask that gentleman to accept the clock from them. He might say that it came as a spontaneous gift from the scholars as a token of their esteem and good wishes. They had expressed a desire, through Miss Welch, one of their teachers, to present Mr. Johnston with a small memento of the respect and good feeling in which they held him, and that young lady had procured the handsome clock which he now asked their late master to accept. He regretted that a longer notice had not been given, as he had not the slightest doubt the heads of families in the district would have been only too pleased to have joined in the presentation, as there was a general feeling of regret at Mr. Johnston”s departure. Mr. Johnston, in replying, said that he could assure the Chairman that he greatly regretted the severance about to take place. So far as he was personally concerned he would have liked to remain in the district. It was very gratifying to him to be the recipient of such a handsome present, and to hear from the Chairman that his services had been appreciated. At the request of Mr. Johnston the children gave three cheers for the Chairman. Three hearty cheers were then given for Mr. and Mrs. Johnston, the assistant teachers (Miss Welch and Miss Johnston), and the Secretary.
Evening Post 6 November 1886
Mr. J. J. Edredge has been appointed to charge of the Taueru School, at a salary of 170 pounds per annum.
Mr. J. J. Mahood is to be the new master of the Taita School, the salary attaching to which position is 230 pounds a year. Bothe gentlemen are at present residing in Canterbury. Mr. Eldredge, who was for eight years Inspector of Schools in North Canterbury, is to go up to Taueru at once, bu Mr. mahood will be unable to proceed to the Taita for about a month.
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Evening Post 12 November 1886
The Chairman of the Taita School Committee announces that a reward of £1 will be given for information that will lead to tho conviction of the person who broke a window in the Taita Schoolhouse.
Evening Post 24 November 1886
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The Taita Committee recommended that a grant of 20 pounds should be made for repairing the teacher”s residence in their distict.
This was agreed to.
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Evening Post 16 December 1886
THE TAITA SCHOOL.
The “breaking-up” ceremony in connection with this school took place on Tuesday last, when addresses were given by Mr. T. Mason (who distributed the prizes), and Messrs. Melton (Chairman of the Committee) and Mahood (Headmaster). The following is the prize-list:-
Standard VII. – Ernest Pike, Laura Pinny, and Arabella Welch. Standard VI – Alexander Ross. Standard V.- Ernest Bodmin, Harry Edwards, Simon Martin, Reginald Russell, Francos Fisk, and Ada Welch. Standard IV. – George Boyd, William Death, Isaac James, Albert Lucas, William Meager, Ellen Martin, May McKain, Ilma Ross, and Jaue Wright. Standard III. – Charles Drummond, Alfred Edwards, Edwin Edwards, Charles Fiak, George Hancock, William Mellow, Mary Boulcott, Eliza Duck, Marjory Duck, Caroline Pilcher, Kate Russell, Agnes Russell, Hetty (sic) Russell, and Maria Webb. Standard II. – Herbert Tilbury, Charles Watson, Thomas Webb, George Wright, Amy Death, Amy Hancock, Alice James, Edith Mellow, Constance Mellow, Margaret Ross, Minnie Russell, Emily Fox, Adolphus Brown, Thos. Death, and John Fisk. Standard I. – John Hooper, Frank Lucas, George Pilcher, Cyril Pike, William Russell, Henry Walters, Alfred Webb, Charles Boulcott, Eliza Elliott, Georgina Peck, and Sophia Barlow.
Evening Post 27 April 1887
Pursuant to notice, a fair attendance of householders met in the Taita schoolroom on Monday evening, for the purpose of electing a committee for the ensuing year. Mr. Duck was voted to the chair. The secretary, Mr. Wm. Cleland, having read the annual report, which was adopted, the election was proceeded with, and resulted in the following gentlemen being declared the new committe :��������� William Cleland, Samuel Russell, John Clement, W. W. Bodmin, — Duck (sic), George Hooper, R. T. Mellow. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Duck for presiding, and to Messrs. Mahood and McMasters for their services as scrutineers. Subsequently the new committee met, and Mr. E. T. Mellow was re-elected Chairman, and Mr. Wm. Cleland re-elected Secretary and Treasurer.
Evening Post 28 April 1887
The report presented by the outgoing Taita school committee at the annual meeting on Monday evening was of a highly satisfactory character. In reference to the appointment of the new head teacher, Mr. Mahood, it is remarked that since he took charge the attendance has increased by 36 per cent. It notices the appointment of Miss Ellen Meager and Miss Boulcott as assistant teachers, and alludes in a congratulatory tone to the improvements effected in the dwelling-house, fencing, and yards attached to the school building. Financial matters seem also to be in a satisfactory condition, for a credit balance of £13 14s 4d is shown. The report concludes is follows:- In conclusion your committee would strongly press on parents and others interested that good teachers and good schools are not all that is required to secure success – it also requires the punctual attendance of the scholars, without which the teachers” efforts are ineffectual. The committee would wish to add that during their term of office they have had but one object in view – the welfare of the school, in which they have been supported by their indeatigable chairman, Mr. J. Mellow.
Evening Post 2 May 1887
Miss Boulcott, who has been first assistant at the Upper Hutt School for the last six years, was, on Friday, on the eve of her departure for the Taita School (to which she has been transferred), presented with a handsome gold bangle bracelet by the head-master, Mr. Hurley, on behalf of the pupils. The bracelet bore the inscription “Pupils of the Upper Hutt School to Miss Boulcott,” and was executed in very handsome style by Mr. S. Kohn, jeweller, Wellington. Miss Boulcott returned thanks to the children in very feeling terms, and expressed a hope that they would be as good and obedient to their new teacher as they had been to her.
Evening Post 19 December 1887
TAITA SCHOOL.
The annual prize distribution and breaking-up tea in connection with this school took place on Friday. The prizes were distributed by Mr. T. Mason, who addressed the children in kindly words of encouragement and advice, telling them to bear in mind that now they were on but the thress hold of life, and that what they would be in the future was in their own hands. They should never do anything of which they were ashamed, and should remember that, althongh unseen by mortal eyes, there was one above who saw everything. The master, Mr Mahood, having addressed those assembled expressing his especial approbation of true attendance prizes. Mr. Mason handed the books to the happy recipients as follows:-
Stardard V.- Ilma Russ, William Meager.
Standard IV. – Kate Russell, Ester Russell, Agnes Russell, Ellen Mabey, Marjory Duck, Mabel Adams, Mary Boulcott, william Mellow, Horace Meager, Chas. Fisk, Alfred Edwards, Charles Drummond, Norman Bodmin.
Standard III.- Margaret Ross, Alfrid (sic) Petterson (sic), Constance Mellow, Edith Mellow, Alice James, Amy Hancock, Amy Death, Louis Adams, John Tilbury, Thomas Death, Adolph (sic) Brown.
Standard II.- Lena Petterson (sic), Georgina Peck, Eliza Elliott, Maud Adams, Henry Walters, George Pilcher, Wm. McLennan, John Hooper, Karl Boulcott.
Standard I. – Rachel Wright, Lizzie Peck, Lily Mellow, Polly Johnson, Hetty (sic) Haywood, Kate Gibson, Emily Edwards, Lily Avery, Constance Avery, Charlotte Avery, Harold Mahood.
Teacher”s (Miss Boulcott”s) prizes for neatest exercise books – Geo. Russell, Amy Death, Wm. McLennan, Charlotte Avery.
Mr. Mason”s prizes for regular attendance – John Tilbury, Adolph Brown, John Hooper, Henry Walters, Ilma Ross, Ada Welch.
In addition to the above, each child in the infant classes received a pretty little gift book, which appeared to give them great pleasure.
Sports and games were then merrily indulged in in Mrs. Pyke”s paddock, kindly granted for the purpose, and a bountiful tea disposed of by the throng of delighted children. After tea the school children sang songs – “The brave oomrade” and “Up in the morning”s cheerful light,” by the senior scholars; “Action Song” and “The Cobbler” by Miss Meager”s preparatory class. Where all in the district did so much, it would be invidious to select a few names for special mention; but we should not close without saying that the tea was ably managed and superintended by Mrs. Welch and Mrs. Meager.
Evening Post 29 September 1888
The examination of the Taita, Upper Hutt, and Mungaroa schools has been completed by Mr. Lee, Inspector of the Board of Education. The results are as follows:- Taita School – Total number presented, 105, 39 being below Standard I. In Standard I., 17 were presented and 17 passed. In Standard II., 17 were presented, 1 was absent, 3 were exempted, and 13 passed. In Standard III., 10 were presented, 1 was absent, 3 failed, and 6 passed. In Standard IV., 11 were presented, 4 failed, and 7 passed. In Standard V., 7 were presented, 2 were exempted, 4 failed, 1 passed. In Standard VI. 4 were presented, 1 was absent, 2 failed, and 1 passed.
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Evening Post 19 December 1888
Board of Education
The monthly meeting of the Board of Education was held this morning,
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Permission was given to Mr. J. J. Mahood to resign the head teachership of the Taita School at the end of the holidays.
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Miss Clara Meager, pupil teacher in the Thorndon School, who lives at the Taita, asked that the cost of the instruction prescribed by the Board should be borne by that body. The Board decided that no special arrangements could be made in her case, but they resolved to transfer her to a school nearer her home at the earliest opportunity.
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Evening Post 22 December 1888
The Schools.
TAITA SCHOOL.
The following is the list of prize-winners for the Taita School. The prizes were presented by the Chairman (Mr. John Clement) on Thursday afternoon:- Standard VI. – I. Ross. Standard V.- W. Death. Standard IV.- A. Brown, J. Tilbury, A. Death, A. Hancock, A. James, E. Mellow, M. Ross. Standard III.- K. Boulcott. J. Hooper, M. Adams, G. Peck, L. Petterson, M. Russell. Standard II. – H. Mahood, C. Pike, C. Avery, L. Avery, E. Drummond, E. Edwards, M. Hooper, H. Haywood, P. Johnson, L. Mellow, E. Pitt, R. Wright, A. Webb. Standard I.- N. Death, H. Hancock, T. Hancock, E. Mahood, H. Mellow, N. Russell, A. Buck, M. Hawkes, M. Terry, A. Walters, L. Webb, E. Edwards, L. Johnston, H. Petterson, M. Russell, J. Russell, S. Wright, Infant classes.- First Division – N. Daysh, K. Fraser, J. Hawkes, J. Walters. L. James Second Division – C. Evenson, T. Mahood, B. Wright, N. Haywood, A. Pitt. Third Division – W. Buck, S. Campbell, F. Hancock, A. Mellow, G. Peck, E. Peck, A. Russell, H. Russell, P. Russell, J. Terry, A. Campbell, M. Daysh, L. Evenson, M. Fox, M. Haywood, L. Pike, L. Walters. Mr. T. Mason”s prizes for attendance were gained by M. Hooper, J. Hooper, M. Ross, J. Tilbury, J. Walters, A. Brown.
Evening Post 19 February 1889
Mr Gordon Ponsonby, late of Matarawa School, has been appointed to the charge of the Taita School, rendered vacant by Mr. Mahood”s resignation, and will, it is understood, enter upon his duties on Monday next.
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Evening Post 27 February 1889
Board of Education
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Mr. Young called attention to the state of the Taita School, and it was ordered that a report on the subject be furnished.
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Evening Post 27 March 1889
Board Of Education
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The Chairman reported that the committee appointed last month had visited the Kaiwarra, Ngahauranga, Petone, Hutt, and Taita Schools, and inspected the buildings.
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The teacher”s residence at the Taita was found to be out of repair, and the committee thought that something should be done to it. The Board decided that the Chairman should act in the matter of
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and improving the residence at the Taita.
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The question of filling up a pupil teachers; vacancy in the Lower Hutt School was considered. It was proposed to transfer Miss Mary E. King, who lives at the Taita, from Mount Cook Boys”s School, but Mr. urged that Miss Payne, who resided at the Hutt, should be appointed.
The Board resolved to make the appointment at next meeting, and in the meantime to institute enquires from the committee on the subject.
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Evening Post 14 August 1889
Messrs. A. W. Brown and F. H. Fraser, members of the Board of Education, accompanied by the Secretary and the architect, visited the Taita School this morning, with the object of ascertaining the condition of the building.
Evening Post 28 August 1889
Education Board
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The Architect reported on the dilapidated condition of the roof of the Taita school and recommended that the same be repaired at a cost of 20 pounds.
Listed under Taita
NZPO 1890 – 91 Ponsonby Gordon, schoolmaster
Evening Post 15 February 1890
The following is the pupil teachers class list of 1890, in connection with Wellington State schools:-
Fifth year –
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Ellen Meager, Taita;
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Third year –
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Clara Meager, Hutt;
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Evening Post 30 April 1890
Education Board
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The sum of ? was voted for erecting new gates at the Taita.
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Evening Post 26 November 1890
Education Board
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the application for additional accommodation at the Taita School was referred to the architect and the inspector for their report.
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Evening Post 22 April 1891
School Committee Nominations
Further lists of candidates for membership of School Committees have reached us as follows:-
Taita – Wm. Cleland, John Clement, H. Daysh, John Edwards, James Harvey, Wm. Kilminster, and S. Russell. There being no other candidates, these gentlemen will form the committe for the year.
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Evening Post 30 July 1891
A pedestrian record of 10 miles per diem, or 50 miles a week, is not a bad one for children of tender ages, who have to perform the feat in order to enable them to obtain the advantages of the Education Act, yet that is what certain little folks at Stokes” Valley have, Dr. Newman asserts, to accomplish if they desire to acquire the rudiments of the three R”s. The doleful dally trudge of these children before the Education Board yesterday when asking the Board to erect an infant school at Stokes” Valley. The Board decided to communicate with the Taita School Committee upon the subject, and should their report be favourable it is probable that an infant school will be erected in Stokes” Valley.
Evening Post 19 December 1891
TAITA SCHOOL.
The prizes were presented by Mr. Thomas Mason on the 17th inst., prefaced by a suitable address to the children. After the prize distribution, tea was provided by the School Committee in Mr. Mason”s grounds, and races and sports were indulged in. The following is the prize list:-
St. 7, M. Ross, dux of school, 1; A. James, 2; A. Brown, 3. St. 6. K. Boulcott, 1; M. Adams, 2; M. Hooper, E. Pitt.
St. 5. C. Pike, 1; H. Walters, 2; E. Edwards, L. Johnston, N. Cleland, T. Handcook.
St. 4. L. James, 1; K. Frazer (sic), 2; M. Daysh, A. Buck, S. Russell, W. Buck, E. Russell, A. Pitt, N. Daysh, E. Edwards, J. Walters.
St. 3. A. Russell, 1; R. Russell, 2; E. Benge, I. Daysh, A. Death, A. Fisk, R. Fisk, M. Hooper, M. Hawk, L. Walters, F. Hancock, H. Russell, B. Wright, W. Whittington.
St. 2. – M. Craig, M. Frazer (sic), M. Fox, S. Hoar, E. Hoar, J. Harvey, C. Pescini, N. Pike, H. Russell (sic), A. Credland (sic), J. Hawk, A. Mellow, V. Mellow, P. Russell, C. Walters.
St. 1, preparatory – All these youngsters had a nice book presented to them. Head teacher”s prizes for good attendance were won by M. Ross (dux), K. Frazer (sic), H. Farrington, all with full marks. Head teacher”s prize for best kept exercise book, M. Adams.
Evening Post 15 February 1892
Education Board
Wellington, 15th February, 1892.
Applications for the following appointments will be received up to Saturday next, the 20th instant:-
Head Teacher, Taita School; attendance, 64; salary about 195 pounds and house.
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Evening Post 5 March 1892
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The resignation of Mr. Gordon Ponsonby, late master of the Taita School, was accepted with regret, and with an expression of hearty wishes for his success in England.
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Evening Post 26 March 1892
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The Rev. H. E. Tuckey, relieving master to the Education Board, takes temporary charge of the Taita School.
Evening Post 26 April 1892
SCHOOL COMMITTEE ELECTIONS
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TAITA
The new Committee are Messrs. Wm. Cleland, John Clements, Henry Daysh, John Edwards, John Fraser, Geo. Kay, and S. Russell. Mr. Russell was elected Chairman, and Mr. Cleland Secretary and Treasurer.
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Evening Post 17 December 1892
TAITA.
The year”s work at the Taita Public School was brought to a close on Thursday night by an entertainment given by the pupils, assisted by Misses Coltman, Morrison, and Williamson, Mrs. Thomson, Mrs. Fulton, and Rev. A. Gray. A prominent feature was a well-sustained debate by about a dozen boys, on “The Higher Education of Women.” The school was beautifully decorated with flowers and evergreens, and was comfortably crowded, the entertainment reflecting great credit on Mr. Williamson, the head master, and his staff. Special prizes awarded for the neatest set of exercise books were won by Karl Boulcott, 1, Alice Buck, and Myrtle Daysh (equal) 2; for greatest improvement during the year as shown by exercise books, Lottie Johnstone 1, Lily James 2.
Evening Post 7 Septemebr 1895
Miss Meater (sic), pupil teacher at the Taita Public School, has been promoted to be assistant at the same school.
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Evening Post 2 August 1928
The death occurred to-day, at the residence of his son in Hamilton, of Mr. Alexander W. Williamson. The late Mr Williamson, who was born near Coventry, England, in 1849, accompanied his parents to New Zealand in the ship William Hyde in 1851. He was educated at the Wanganui Grammar School and at Otago College. In 1874 he gained his B.A. degree, the first part bestowed by the Otago University, and in the same year was appointed to the Turakina School, where he taught for seven years. He was headmaster of the Patea School for eleven years, and afterwards was at the Taita and Epuni Schools, retiring in 1911, after thirty-seven years of service. The late Mr. Williamson, who was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Chuch, and an active Sunday school worker, celebrated his golden wedding in June last. He leaves a widow and a family of three sons, Messrs. C. A. Williamson, of Petone, and F. T. and B. A. Williamson, both of Hamilton, and four daughters, Mrs. A. McMillan, of Lower Hutt, Mrs. W. Rennie, jun., of Petone, Mrs. J. Park, of Bonhar, and Miss Williamson, of Lower Hutt.
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Evening Post 27 April 1892
Board of Education
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The Board went into committee on the question of the Taita School, and confirmed the appointment of Mr. Williamson (sic) as master.
Wanganui Chronicle 2 May 1892
The many friends of Mr. A Williams (sic), M.A., formerly headmaster of the Patea Public School, will be pleased to learn that he has been appointed to the charge of the Taita School, in Upper Hutt District, Wellington, The position is equal to that of Patea.
Evening Post 25 May 1892
Board of Education
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The carpenter was instructed to attend to the repair of the Taita School fence.
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Tenders for the erection of new school-houses at Stokes Valley and Makara were opened, and the lowest in each instant was accepted.
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Evening Post 1 June 1892
Mr. A. W. Wilkinson (sic), late of the Brunswick School, Wanganui, has just taken up his appointment as headmaster of the Taita School. The Rev. Mr. Tuckey, relieving master to the Education Board, will proceed to-morrow to the Wairarapa to take temporary charge of Hastwell School, the present teacher being disabled throngh having been thrown from her horse.
Evening Post 17 September 1892
At the monthly meeting of the Taita School Committee held on Wednesday, Mr A. W. Williamson, B.A., (sic) who was one of the first graduates of the New Zealand University, and who has lately been appointed headmaster of the Taita School, was presented with a beautifully illuminated address, handsomely framed, and a dinner set, as a token of esteem and good wishes from the residents of Patea, where Mr Williamson held the position of headmaster of the public school for over 10 years. The presentation was made on behalf of residents of Patea by Mr. T. Mason, Taita, who, in a neat speech, related reminiscences of the schools and schoolmasters of his own day. Mr. Williamson, in reply, stated that the presentation afforded him a pleasure and satisfaction not to be measured by the gifl itself. It would remind him of many associations and familiar faces of friends from whom in his new field of labour he was parted.
Evening Post 18 December 1893
TAITA.
At the annual concert and distribution of prizes in Taita School a programme was submitted including many novelties, amongst them a debate by the children and action and character songs; a dialogue by Rev. Mr. Gray and Mrs. Gray, songs by the Rev. T. G. Carr, Miss Chapple, and Mrs. Thompson; recitations by Mr. E. B. Jones, and a trio by Mr. and Mrs. Daysh and Miss Williamson. Miss Williamson also played the accompaniments. The Rev. Mr. Harrison distributed the prizes. Mr. Mellow, Chairman of the School Committee, also spoke, and concluded by moving a hearty vote of thanks to the performers and to the Head Master, Mr. Williamson. The entertainment concluded with three cheers for Mr. Williamson given very heartily by the children.
Evening Post 22 December 1894
At the annual entertainment in aid of the prize fund, held in the Taita School on Thursday evening, 7 was realised. The Rev. C. Harrison occupied the chair, and also distributed the prizes. Mr. Williamson and his staff are to be congratulated on the efficiency displayed by the scholars in elocution and singing.
Evening Post 30 January 1895
Education Board
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On the recommendation of a committee of the Board, a grant of 14 pounds was made for fencing at the Taita School grounds.
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Evening Post 28 August 1895
EDUCATION BOARD.
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The carpenter was directed to effect necessary repairs at Eketahuna, Hastwell, and Taita;
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Evening Post 3 September 1895
Miss Boulcott, at present assistant teacher at Taita School, is the successful applicant for the post of assistant at Kilbirnie School.
Evening Post 7 September 1895
Miss Meater (sic), pupil teacher at the Taita Public School, has been promoted to be assistant at the same school.
Evening Post 12 September 1895
Education Board
Wellington, 11th September 1895.
Applications will be received for a Pupil Teacher at the Taita School up to Friday, the 20th instant.
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Evening Post 25 September 1895
EDUCATION BOARD.
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The following appointments were made:-
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pupil-teacher at the Taita, Mr. L. Price.
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Evening Post 19 October 1895
Miss Boulcott, who was for over six years connected with the staff of the Taita School, and who was recently promoted to the position of first assistant at Kilbirnie, was presented at the Board of Education office this morning with a very handsome watch, as a mark of the esteem in which she was held by the residents of the Taita. Mr. A. Dorset, Secretary of the Board, in making the presentation, spoke of the regret felt by parents and children at the Taita at the removal of Miss Boulcott, who was very popular in the district. Miss Boulcott briefly expressed her sense of the compliment that had been paid her.
Evening Post 16 November 1895
The Taita School has been closed, in consequence of the prevalence of diphtheria in the district.
Evening Post 24 February 1896
HUTT AND TAITA SCHOOLS.
EXCURSION TO MASTERTON TO-MORROW (TUESDAY), 25th INST.
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THESE Schools will be conveyed by Ordinary Train, leaving Lower Hutt at 7.45 a.m., leaving Masterton at 3.15 p.m.
Evening Post 8 August 1896
The judge of the “Loo-loo Sap” essay competitions, Mr. T. W. Rowe, M.A., has awarded first place in each standard as follows:- Fourth Standard, Constance E. Knowles, Thorndon School; Fifth Standard, Amy Williamson, Taita School; Sixth Standard, Ruby M. Farr, Newtown School. The prize in each case is a golden sovereign.
Evening Post 21 December 1896
TAITA.
An excellent entertainment, held in Welch”s Hall, was given by the Taita School in connection with the breaking up for the holidays. The most notable event was a debate by some of the scholars, on the question, “Are School Excursions Beneficial ?” which, of course, ended in a decided victory for the affirmative side. The action songs by the children were much appreciated, as also was a trio by Misses and Master Williamson. The Rev. Andrew Gray presided, and presented prizes to all who had passed their examinations. Special prizes were awarded to Emily Colson for greatest improvement, to Edith White and Amy Williamson (equal) for neatest set of exercise books, to Hilda Hudson and Sam Campbell for rapid arithmetic. The other performers at the concert were Misses Ross, Drummond, Gray, Garwood, and McGurk, Messrs. Jones, Feist, Pringle, Kirk, Drummond, and Gillet, with Misses Williamson and Brown as pianistes. The whole entertainment reflected much credit on Mr. Williamson and his staff.
Evening Post 23 February 1897
The Teachers” Examinations
The Classification List
The classification of pupil teachers and ex-pupil teachers of the Wellington Education district for the year 1897, on the basis of the recent pupil teachers” examinations, is as follows:-
Ex-pupil Teachers
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Clara Meager, Lower Hutt;
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Second Year
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Leonard Price, Taita;
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Star 10 August 1897
Fires
[Per Press Association.]
Wellington, August 10
The Taita school and teacher”s house on the Hutt Road, fourteen miles from town, were burned about midnight. Nothing was insured. The origin was a defective chimney. The teacher, Mr Williamson, saved a portion of the furniture.
Evening Post 14 August 1897
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Until the Taita School, recently destroyed by fire is rebuilt, school will be held in the Sunday School buildings.
Evening Post 20 August 1897
THANKS.
Mr. and MRS. WILKINSON (sic) desire to return their most sincere Thanks to all those who so kindly rendered assistance at, and since, the late fire in the Taita school.
Evening Post 25 August 1897
Education Board
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The Chairman reported the result of the Coroner”s enquiry into the fire which destroyed the school buildings at Taita. He had made temporary arrangements for the education of the children, and had plans prepared and tenders called for the erection of a new school. Until the residence was re-built he recommended that the present teacher be allowed a special rent allowance of 35 pounds. The report was adopted.
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Evening Post 25 August 1897
TO THE HOUSEHOLDERS TAITA SCHOOL DISTRICT
We, the undersigned, hereby call a public meeting, to be held at the Wesleyan Sunday School, Taita, on THURSDAY EVENING, at 8 o”clock, to consider the advisability of having the new School erected in a more central position.
JOHN TILBURY.
WILLIAM JONES.
JOHN PECK.
Evening Post 21 December 1897
TAITA.
The annual entertainment in connection with the breaking-up of the Taita School was held in the Taita Hall on the 16th inst., the Rev. J. H. Gray in the chair. The performances were of a high standard – a noticeable item being a debate in which some 12 children took part. The competition in elocution was a keen one, and the prizes were awarded by the judges (the Rev. A. Thomson and the Chairman) as follows :- Boys, J. Brownley; girls, Kate Doull. The committee showed its liberality in the excellent volumes placed on the table for distribution, every child in the school receiving a book.
Evening Post 3 August 1898
The differences between last year”s Taita School Committee and the Education Board led to the non-election of a Committee at the April meeting of householders. At another meeting, however, held a few days ago a Committee was partly elected, consisting of Messrs. E. Clement, W. Cleland (secretary), W. Gwilliam, and L. Gwilliam (chairman), leaving three vacancies to be filled.
Evening Post 6 October 1898
TENDERS for Levelling, Fencing, Drainage, &c., required at the Taita School. Specifications to be seen at Mr. Clealand”s (sic) Store, Taita,, where tenders will be received up to Monday, the 10th inst.
W. CLEALAND.
Secretary School Committee.
Taita, 5th Oct., 1898
Evening Post 20 December 1898
TAITA SCHOOL.
The Taita School broke up for the holidays on Friday, with an entertainment in the school. Songs were contributed by Misses Gray (2) and Messrs. McKinnon, Drummond, Kirk, and Appleyard. A number of songs, recitations, and dialogues were given by the children, and were much appreciated by their elders. Miss Williamson was accompanist. A feature of the evening”s entertainment was a debate on the question “Whether School Prizes should be Given,” which was capitally given by the children. The Rev. A. Gray presided, and before distributing the prizes remarked on the great, efficiency of the school under Mr. Williamson and his assistants, and also congratulated Miss Amy Williamson on having gained a scholarship in the recent examination – the third scholarship which has been won by scholars attending this school. Special prizes were awarded as follows:- Neatest exercises, senior division, Amy Williamson; junior, Annie Westbury and Nellie Williamson; rapid arithmetic, senior, Emily Colson; junior, Blanche Cocking; most popular girl, Amy Williamson; most popular boy, Bertie Johnstone; best elocution, girls, Violet Peck; boys, Fred. Williamson; strongest pass in St. II., T. Gadsby; St. III., M. Webb.
Evening Post 30 November 1899
When an application came before the Education Board yesterday afternoon for the use of the Taita School for Sunday services, the Chairman said it had been the custom of the Board to refuse such applications. Mr. John Young, speaking as an old schoolmaster, was strongly opposed to the use of their schools on Sundays for any purpose of the kind. It was a perfect nuisance to master. Finally, the matter was referred to the local School Committee.
Evening Post 13 February 1900
Education Board,
Wellington, 13th February, 1900
Applications for a Pupil Teacher for the Taita School will be received up to Monday, the 19th instant. Forms of application may be obtained at the office.
A. Dorset,
Secretary
Evening Post 15 June 1900
WEDNESDAY, 20th JUNE,
At 12.30 o”clock.
CLEARING SALE OF FARM STOCK AND IMPLEMENTS, AT TAITA, LOWER HUTT.
MACDONALD, WILSON AND Co. have received instructions from Mr. John Hudson, whose lease is up, to sell on the farm, Taita, Lower Hutt (opposite the Taita School)-
3 good trap horses
3 milch cows and 2 yearling heifers
7 good pigs
40 tons hay and straw
2 h.p. chaffcutter by Andrews and Beaven, wih elevator complete, in first-class order; s.f. plough and swingletrees, harrows, Planet, Jr., scarifier, good spring cart, set harness, steelyards, lot of dairy utensils, 30cwt seed Fluke potatoes, and lot of sundries
As Mr. Hudson”s lease is up the whole will be sold without reserve.
Evening Post 12 May 1900
The following are the latest additions to the Indian Famine Fund
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A substantial donation to the Fund will result from a happy thought of a Waimate resident, Mr. J. Barr. This gentlemn offered a handsome flag to be competed for by the Hutt and Taita School Children, the flag to go to the school which collected most money per head for the Indian Famine Fund. The substantial sum of 20 pounds has been collected by the Taita school children, and they should stand a very good chance of securing the prize.
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Evening Post 2 July 1900
At the Taita School on Saturday afternoon a New Zealand ensign, the gift of Mr. J. Barr, of the Waiwetu, was presented by the Rev. J. Martin to Mr. Williamson, head master, on behalf of the school. Afterwards Mrs. Barr was presented with a choice boquet by the Misses Buck and Williamson on behalf of the teachers and pupils. Mr. Bunny, Mayor of the Hutt Borough, hoisted the flag amid cheering and the singing of the National Anthem. Speeches were made by the Mayor and Mr. Barr, and during the afternoon patriotic songs were sung by the children, who were trained by Mr. Burns, and finally afternoon tea, provided by the ladies of the district, was partaken of by all present.
Evening Post 9 November 1901
Tenders for Erection of Breakwind and Fencing will be received up to Monday, the 18th instant. Specification may be seen by applying to William Cleland, Secretary Taita School Committee
Evening Post 31 July 1902
EDUCATION BOARD
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Inspector Bakewell reported that in his opinion there was no necessity to erect another school in the Hutt district. Accommodation was required for Epuni children, but he thought it could be met by altering the sites of the Hutt and the Taita Schools. The Chairman said the Board had no money to erect a third school in the Hutt district. A Committee was appointed to meet the Hutt and Taita Committee in September, and go into the whole question.
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Manwatu Standard 10 August 1903
Mr Plunkett Cole, of the Horowhenua school, has been appointed to the charge of the Taita school
Poverty Bay Herald 6 May 1905
Sarcastic School Report
The annual report of the Taita School Committee, Wellington, makes excellent reading,
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– note also reported in other papers
Evening Post 28 July 1905
An offer by Mr. Hobbs, dentist, to make a free inspection of the teeth of the children attending the Hutt, Epuni Hamlet, and Taita Schools, was conveyed to the Education Board yesterday by Mr. T. W. McDonald. The Board was asked to give permission, subject to the School Committees and the parents of children being also agreeable. It was decided to comply with the request.
Evening Post 3 August 1905
Tenders for the Erection of Latrines at the Taita School will be received at the Education Board Office, Wellington, up to noon of Friday, 11th inst. Plans and specifications may be seen at the Schoolhouse, Taita, Chronicle office, Petone, and at the office of the Education Board.
G. L. Stewart, Secretary
Taranaki Herald 27 January 1906
About dentist visiting school and how many children”s teeth needed attention
Evening Post 27 April 1909
Forty-four years” continuous service as a school committeeman has been achieved by Mr. W. Cleland, of the Taita. He has been a member of the Taita School Committee since 1864, and in all those years he has been absent from only one meeting
Evening Post 28 April 1909
THE HUTT RIVER.
PROPOSED EXTENSION OF BOARD”S DISTRICT
A public meeting to consider the question of extending the present River District is to be held at the Taita School at 7.30 p.m on Monday next. Yesterday Mr. Robert Stevens, chairman of the board, with the consulting engineer, Mr. Laing-Meason. M. Inst C.E., made an extended inspection of the land which it is proposed to bring under the River Board”s control, and they examined the river bank, and the overflow channels from which danger is apprehended. The recent very heavy flood in the river made it an easy matter to observe the height to which the flood waters had risen, and the chairman was strongly impressed with the seriousness of the situation. The flood mark made it very evident that an overflow had taken place into an old river channel about a mile northward of the Taita Hotel, and this old channel was traced from the river bank to the point where it crosses the main road near Mason”s Gardens. In the early days of settlement, this channel was the main branch of the Hutt River, and in times of flood it carried a very great volume of water into the Waiwetu River and inundated a large area of land in the lower valley. Should this occur again, and experts say it is quite possible, disastrous results would follow, and all the work erected by the board in its own district would be outflanked and rendered useless. It was observed, also, that much good land is being eroded by the river in every flood, and if the proposed new area was brought under the control of the board, all this loss of land would be prevented. After his inspection of the ground, the chairman was strongly of opinion that, both in the interest of the settlers in the area proposed to be included in the River District, and of the lower valley, the suggested extension of the district should be given effect to without any delay.
Evening Post 30 April 1909
FORTY YEARS AGO.
THE GENESIS OF A COUNTRY SCHOOL.
A FAITHFUL SECRETARY.
Month in and month out, for nearly two generations, the Taita school committee has met with regularity, and, what is more interesting, on each occasion the same familiar figure – that of Mr. Wm. Cleland – has occupied the secretary”s chair. With the exception of one – break on the occasion, of his taking up his residence at Petone for about three years, Mr. Cleland has filled the post of secretary, being absent from one meeting only.
It was in the days of the old Provincial Government, in 1864, that the then settlers of the Taita and surrounding districts began to bestir themselves in the matter of securing a public school. Previously, a private school had been conducted by a Mr. Robinson, but its” benefits were not quite so far-reaching as could have been wished.
A meeting to discuss the project of a permanent school was held at the general rendezvous of that time – the bush hotel – then known by the sign of the Albion, and situated on a site now occupied by Gadsby Bros., butchers. On the motion of a Mr. W. Whitewood, it was resolved to set up a committee to canvass the district for subscriptions. The settlers, though, comparatively small in numbers, responded fairly liberally, with the result that ��150 was collected. Even so long ago deputations were the order of the day, and the Provincial Government was waited upon by the settlers who had the project in hand. The Government, according to the minute-book of the secretary (Mr. Cleland), which is still preserved intact, extended a very courteous reception, offering every encouragement, and agreeing to grant a subsidy of pound for pound on all the subscript tions received, including a school site of a half-acre, donated By the late Mr. George Brick (sic). This seems to have given considerable impetus to the movement. The next step of importance was the acceptance of the tender of a Mr. H. Meager for the erection of a two roomed school-house, with dwelling attached. The fact that they had to pay for the tuition of their children does not appear to have produced any pronounced hesitation on the part of the settlers – many of whom were struggling hard for their existence – in deciding to send them to school. The district served by the school included Stokes Valley and the Nainai (sic), and to the credit of the original founders of the school, no less than between one hundred and two hundred children attended for instruction soon after its opening. At the Taita at the time mentioned, each child – through its parents, of course – had to pay £2 per annum for the privilege of receiving instruction; for two children in one family the charge was £3 10s; and 30s for every other child. Despite the fees, however, very few children, if any, were debarred from receiving tuition; settlers often, paying for somebody else”s children in cases where the parents could not find the money.
The first teacher engaged was Mr. Walter Mantel, who continued in his position for some four or five years. The salary he received – 200 pounds and house provided free – while by no means large, compares very favourably with some of the remunerations at present being paid to back-block teachers. Towards the payment of the teacher”s salary, a subsidy was each year received from the Provincial Government. Some of the scholars were rough and ready specimens to keep under control, but, notwithstanding this, their attendance was more regular than that of the children of to-day. Now and again the school would be plunged into perturbation by rumours of Maori risings, but nothing untoward happened until some years later, when the building was destroyed by fire. After that, for an interval of a few months, the classes were housed in the old Wesleyan chapel. Meanwhile there was being built a new structure, which as in use at the present time. Gradually, however, the general condition of things had been undergoing a metamorphosis; colleges had sprung up; new educational laws had come into operation, and the system governing the school was greatly changed. The new building was erected by the Government, the settlers not being asked to assist financially. All that remains, officially, to remind one of the early schooling- days is the minutebook, in which the business of the first and subsequent meetings of the original committee were recorded.
Incidentally, it may be said that it is noteworthy that the only members of the first committee who are alive today are Messrs. W. Cleland, S. Milne, and D. Hughey. The former has kept a store at Taita for many years, while Mr. Milne is one of the oldest settlers, if not actually the oldest. The other gentleman has been away from the district for a number of years.
Evening Post 10 July 1909
The Taita School Committee is aranging to make a presentation to Mr. W. P. Cole, the head teacher, who is retiring on superannuation
Evening Post 9 February 1910
A meeting of the Hutt Park Committee was held last evening
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The children of the Taita school were granted the use of the park on the occasion of their annual picnic today.
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From Island Bay Database
Not on NZPO
NZPO Wm Plunket, Occ: None listed, Esplanade by Severn Street South, 1914 – 1915
– unsure if same one?
EP 14/7/1910
Plunkett-Cole – On the 12th July, 1910, William Plunkett-Cole, of West Best, Island Bay; aged 65 years
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Mr. William Plunkett-Cole, whose death occurred at Island Bay last Tuesday, was well-known in educational and volunteer circles in Wellington. He was born in the Old Country 65 years ago. In 1879 he entered the service of the Wanganui Education Board, but over 20 years ago he was appointed first assistant master in the Te Aro School, Willis-street. After holding the position for several years, he was transferred to Dreyerton as head teacher. He was afterwards in charge of the State Farm School, the Te Horo School, and the Taita School, in that order. Last year he retired from the service on superannuation. The deceased was an enthusiastic volunteer for many years, and was captain of the Rifles & corps which has been defunct for a considerable time. His son is master of a large steamer trading between London and the Far East, and there is a daughter living in Wellington. The funeral is to leave St. Paul”s Pro-Cathedral, Mulgrave-street, at 9.30 a.m. to-morrow.
Probate William Plunket-Cole, Place: Porirua, Occ: Schoolteacher, Date of Death: 12/7/1910, AAOM 6029 12950, Filed: 28/7/1910, Will, Archives NZ, Wellington
Evening Post 10 March 1911
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A meeting of the Hutt Park Committee was held at the Hutt last evening,
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The Taita School Committee and the Petone Salvation Army were also granted the use of the park for picnic purposes.
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Evening Post 15 March 1911
The Hutt County Council decided yesterday to call the attention of the Health Department to fact that there has been an outbreak of scarlet fever in the Epuni Hamlet. It was stated that owing to the outbreak some of the Epuni school children were attending the Taita School, and the others the Hutt School.
Evening Post 2 October 1911
Waxing interestingly reminiscent at the opening of the Normandale School on Saturday afternoon, Mr. R. Lee, chairman of the Education Board, said it would surprise many of his listeners to know that thirty-seven years ago there was a school – if it could be termed such – only a few chains away from the site they were then on. It was called the Belmont School, and was attended by thirteen pupils, who were taught in a small whare. Their teacher was a Mr. Golder, a venerable old master, who was then nearer 80 years than 70. Despite his age, Mr. Golder was very active and always cheerful. He took the Belmont School in the morning, and every afternoon he would tramp across the hills and teach at Koro-koro. This completed, he would wend his way back to Belmont, where he resided. Of this old gentleman Mr. Lee had some pleasing reminiscences. Mr. Lee also remembered the time when the Hutt School was held in a blockhouse under the guidance of Mr. J. Martin. “The place was so dimly lighted that you could scarcely tell one boy”s face from another.” There were between thirty and forty on the roll. “It is extremely interesting,” concluded Mr. Lee, “to be on the old ground once again and witness such a transformation.” Mr. Lee”s remarks reminded Mr. Wilford of the first time he met Mr. Lee. Mr. Wilford was then a pupil at the Taita School, and Mr. Lee, as inspector, was naturally looked upon by the scholars with fear, “But I”m not afraid of him now,” added the speaker, amidst laughter.
Evening Post 8 May 1914
THE SCHOOLS
COMMITEE ELECTIONS
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OTHER DISTRICTS
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Taita – Messrs. M. Welch (chairman), J. Stonehouse (secretary), G. Hooper, W. William, F. Eales, S. Chivers, and W. Kilminster (sic)
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Evening Post 23 November 1914
Mrs. H. A. W. McKenzie gave an enjoyable afternoon at Wilmor, Taita, to the elder girls attending the local school, on Saturday afternoon. Various game were played, the croquet matches being keenly contested. The observation table proved interesting to the children, who inspected twenty-eight diverse articles, and Miss May Smith secured first prize (twenty-four correct), and Miss Elsie Atkinson second (twenty-two correct). The centre-piece of the teatable was a Christmas tree (probably the first one of the season), containing gifts to be drawn for by all present, the articles, being of a varied character, caused considerable merriment amongst the girls.
Evening Post 27 December 1921
TAITA SCHOOL
The “breaking-up” ceremony at the Taita School was marked by an enjoyable concert contributed by the scholars. In Standard VI. there were no failures. The following gained proficiency certificates:����� Evelyn Parkinson, Marjorie McArthur, Daphne Hunter; Mary Burgess, Jean Burgess, Alan McArthur, Edward Hewer, Albert Hewer, and Lyle Murray. An endorsed competency certificate was gained by Arthur England, and competency certificates by Ethel Jenner and Vivian Peck. A special prize (The Gilrs” (sic) Own Annual) was presented by the committee to the dux of the school (Evelyn Parkinson).
Evening Post 8 May 1923
The following have been elected as the Taita School Committee: Messrs. A. Burgess (chairman), V. Pemberton (secretary), D. McArthur, F. W. Kitchener, A. W. Kilminster, F. Eales, F. Ferretti.
Evening Post 1 November 1940
Mr. A. M. Macfarlane, assistant master at the Clyde Quay School, has been appointed by the Wellington Education Board to take charge of the Taita School till the end of the year. Mr Macfarlane is a member of the Petone Borough Council and of the Petone and Lower Hutt Gas Lighting Board.
Evening Post 7 August 1945
FAREWELL TO TEACHER
A large number of residents of Taita attended a farewell social evening in the Taita Hall recently in honour of Miss Williamson, who has left Taita School to take up the position of infant mistress at Epuni School. Miss Williamson had been on the staff of Taita School for 28 years, practically the whole of her teaching career. Eulogistic references to her work for both school and district were paid by Mr. Stonehouse (Education Board), Mr. Hutchison (school committee). Mr. Vaughan (a former headmaster), and Mr. A. MacFarlane. Miss Williamson suitably replied. During the evening she was presented with a handbag and a cheque from the residents of Taita. Supper was served and dancing followed.
Evening POst 15 August 1945
TAITA SCHOOL CARNIVAL
Launched six weeks ago by the ladies” auxiliary, the Taita School Queen Carnival concluded on Saturday, when Princess Elizabeth Gabites was elected queen. Princesses Jillian. Judith, and Glenna all were accorded strong support.
The proceeds of the carnival, amounting to £866, are a magnificent result, and will be devoted to grounds improvements, school library, sports equipment, and other needs. The crowning ceremony will take place in the Taita Hall tomorrow.
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