The Grammar School Exhibition of Hobbies 1917

Before dismissing for the vacation the pupils gave an exhibition of hobbies of a very extensive nature. In additionto a large marquee in the field, the school hall and all the classrooms were completely filled with exhibits. The major portion bore directly upon the various subjects of the school curriculum to which were added sections for war and curios of which the pupils had got together many interesting articles taken by former pupils in the present campaign. The waste products section gave scope for much ingenuity, such as pin cushions, trays,slippers etc., all made from what is usually deposited in the dustbin. The photographic section was well filled with enlargements and snapshots and collections of photos, some dating very far back. Geography aspired to the ceiling of the hall and embraced maps of every description, illustrated diagrams, modelhouses, camps, and representations of national life. The Cadet Corps exhibited useful diagrams, and drawings and paintings of the lower forms came in for praise. A feature was the correlation of art, literature and history exhibited in the annexed building. Scenes from the English classics were admirably portrayed, and around the walls were the Kings and costumes of their period supplemented by figures of historic interest robed with minute and excact attention showing particular knowledge of the subject.

The raffia work and nature study exhibits of the younger pupils were among the most gratifying specimens, as also was the large room set apart for needlework, and completely filled with a splendid assortment, indicating the skill and accuracy of the workers. In the laboratory useful apparatus and diagrams were shown, some indeed still generating noxious gases.

The cookery included lunch and tea tables delicately laid, and the viands were an irresistible attraction as subsequent events proved.

The marquee gave one the impression of a flower show, with the addition of live stock that baffles description, and a couple of benches of useful woodwork models made in the carpentry shop. A solitary mouse – the eleven others escaped – was in dangerous proximity to a lively kitten impudently playing with a pacific bulldog. The vegetables from the school gardens were distinctly praiseworthy as were also many of the flowers, particularly one exhibit of sweet-peas in sixteen different colours. The general impression was one of admiration for the perseverence and trouble which had brought together so much that was useful, attractive, and at the same time instructive.