School Articles
Presented here are articles printed primarily in the 'Theosophy in New Zealand' magazine about the school. This page is devoted to articles written about the operation of the school from 1920 to 1960.
On other pages within this section are:
- Pre school Opening Articles. These articles reflect the build up to making the school a possibility in New Zealand.
- School Teacher Articles. A section of articles that teachers wrote in the national magazine about the school, its ethos, students etc
- Visitors Articles. Visitors from overseas wrote about the school such as Miss Christie, Mr Leadbeater, Mr Jinarajadasa and Mr Rogers.
- Inspired Articles. These are written mainly before the opening of the school. Mrs Besant was a source of inspiration amongst others and her ideas about education were published for the theosophical community.
On other pages within this section are:
- Pre school Opening Articles. These articles reflect the build up to making the school a possibility in New Zealand.
- School Teacher Articles. A section of articles that teachers wrote in the national magazine about the school, its ethos, students etc
- Visitors Articles. Visitors from overseas wrote about the school such as Miss Christie, Mr Leadbeater, Mr Jinarajadasa and Mr Rogers.
- Inspired Articles. These are written mainly before the opening of the school. Mrs Besant was a source of inspiration amongst others and her ideas about education were published for the theosophical community.
Scholarships at Vasanta College
ONE VACANCY
Two scholarships, to be called "The Samana Scholarships," have been established by a well-wisher of the school, each of £25 per annum, tenable for two years. Each scholarship will therefore cover about one-halt of the annual charges for a boarder, and it is intended that these foundations shall be utilised by members whose means do not allow them to send their children to the school without some aid. The aim of the donor is to assist children who are likely to be devoted Servers in their later years, and it is her wish that the ultimate decision as to the eligibility of the child shall be determined by Mr. J. R. Thomson.
One scholarship has been allotted. Any parent who wishes to apply for the remaining vacancy should in the first instance, write to the Secretary of the Educational Trust Board at 351 Queen Street, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
Two scholarships, to be called "The Samana Scholarships," have been established by a well-wisher of the school, each of £25 per annum, tenable for two years. Each scholarship will therefore cover about one-halt of the annual charges for a boarder, and it is intended that these foundations shall be utilised by members whose means do not allow them to send their children to the school without some aid. The aim of the donor is to assist children who are likely to be devoted Servers in their later years, and it is her wish that the ultimate decision as to the eligibility of the child shall be determined by Mr. J. R. Thomson.
One scholarship has been allotted. Any parent who wishes to apply for the remaining vacancy should in the first instance, write to the Secretary of the Educational Trust Board at 351 Queen Street, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
Theosophical Education Trust Board
The Annual General Meeting of the Trust Board was held on December 30th, 1919, Dr. J. Giles, the president, in the Chair. Fourteen members were present, also Mr. J. Mackay, of Sydney. Dr. Giles expressed the pleasure it gave him to meet members from other cities who have helped the school from a distance. Our disappointments, he said, appeared afterwards to be blessings in disguise. It was as though when seeking a site, some power had said, "No, not that. You must go further and get something better." This happened again and again. At last we found what did seem good enough and we accordingly made the act of faith and grasped it. We have much in common with other private schools, he said, especially in our belief that the development of character is the first thing to be considered. Let us cherish the faith and the prophetic vision which sees in the future the towns of this land, or at all events the chief towns, each with its Theosophical school, as good as the one we have now established.
Mr. S. T. Butler, L.R.A.M., Acting Principal of the School, read his report upon the work of the year. The College had opened on the 10th February, 1919, with 26 scholars. The number on the roll at present is 37 (11 boarders and 26 day scholars). With regard to religious and moral teaching, he said that he soon realised that the Universal Textbook of Religion and Morals was too advanced for the primary school. Miss Christie's Theosophy for Beginners proved very useful, and material for lessons was drawn from varied sources, including famous pictures by Watts and Holman Hunt, and pictures of a mythical or mystical character by other artists. It might be safely claimed that the majority of the children know the various steps of the Preparatory Path and the qualities necessary to attain to them as well as they know the multiplication table. To impress on the growing mind what control of thought, word and deed really means; what is the significance of such terms as tolerance, cheerfulness, one-pointedness and love, lays the foundation on which much useful training may be built.
The vital subjects of music and singing had received very close attention. The teaching of correct breathing for voice-production was immediately begun, and it was found that the children, having little to undo, were more easily taught than adults. There is among them undoubtedly a dawning artistic and musical discrimination. The most popular subjects were Reading and Geography. The latter had been much enjoyed. They had been round the world in an airship, and had followed the submarine cable round the world, and learned many things regarding the countries through which the electric current passes. They had commenced the reading of John Foster Fraser's book Bound the World on a Wheel. Instead of having their knowledge of geography confined to one country, with details of the exports of tobacco or ostrich-feathers, many of the children could take the pointer and sweep across the map of the world, retailing information about things which really matter.
In reply to a question, Mr. Butler said that physical drill on the Government system was given daily for about a-quarter of an hour. Several speakers suggested getting instructors in the Dalcroze system of Eurythmics. Mr. W. A. Scott proposed that the Board's thanks to Mr. Butler for his untiring energy, in the work be placed upon the minutes.—Carried unanimously.
The following new members were appointed to seats on the Board:—Miss Trevitliick, Wellington; Miss Webb, Napier; Miss Mary Watson, Hastings; Miss A. White, Masterfcon; Mr. D. W. Miller, Whangarei; Mr. Free, Palmerston North.
Two resolutions with regard to religious teaching, proposed byDr. Giles, were considered at length.
Mr. Butler said that the religious and moral teaching consists of teaching the significance of the steps on the Preparatory 'Path; love, tolerance, one-pointedness, etc. That is confined to the early part of the day, after the singing in the morning, about twenty minutes of this. That is practically all the set religious training which is given as a lesson.
It was decided to leave the form of religious teaching to the discretion of the Acting-Principal, as at present, and in the matter, of evening devotions to draft a form of short service, free from ritual, to be considered by the Board at a later meeting.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Jan 1920
Mr. S. T. Butler, L.R.A.M., Acting Principal of the School, read his report upon the work of the year. The College had opened on the 10th February, 1919, with 26 scholars. The number on the roll at present is 37 (11 boarders and 26 day scholars). With regard to religious and moral teaching, he said that he soon realised that the Universal Textbook of Religion and Morals was too advanced for the primary school. Miss Christie's Theosophy for Beginners proved very useful, and material for lessons was drawn from varied sources, including famous pictures by Watts and Holman Hunt, and pictures of a mythical or mystical character by other artists. It might be safely claimed that the majority of the children know the various steps of the Preparatory Path and the qualities necessary to attain to them as well as they know the multiplication table. To impress on the growing mind what control of thought, word and deed really means; what is the significance of such terms as tolerance, cheerfulness, one-pointedness and love, lays the foundation on which much useful training may be built.
The vital subjects of music and singing had received very close attention. The teaching of correct breathing for voice-production was immediately begun, and it was found that the children, having little to undo, were more easily taught than adults. There is among them undoubtedly a dawning artistic and musical discrimination. The most popular subjects were Reading and Geography. The latter had been much enjoyed. They had been round the world in an airship, and had followed the submarine cable round the world, and learned many things regarding the countries through which the electric current passes. They had commenced the reading of John Foster Fraser's book Bound the World on a Wheel. Instead of having their knowledge of geography confined to one country, with details of the exports of tobacco or ostrich-feathers, many of the children could take the pointer and sweep across the map of the world, retailing information about things which really matter.
In reply to a question, Mr. Butler said that physical drill on the Government system was given daily for about a-quarter of an hour. Several speakers suggested getting instructors in the Dalcroze system of Eurythmics. Mr. W. A. Scott proposed that the Board's thanks to Mr. Butler for his untiring energy, in the work be placed upon the minutes.—Carried unanimously.
The following new members were appointed to seats on the Board:—Miss Trevitliick, Wellington; Miss Webb, Napier; Miss Mary Watson, Hastings; Miss A. White, Masterfcon; Mr. D. W. Miller, Whangarei; Mr. Free, Palmerston North.
Two resolutions with regard to religious teaching, proposed byDr. Giles, were considered at length.
Mr. Butler said that the religious and moral teaching consists of teaching the significance of the steps on the Preparatory 'Path; love, tolerance, one-pointedness, etc. That is confined to the early part of the day, after the singing in the morning, about twenty minutes of this. That is practically all the set religious training which is given as a lesson.
It was decided to leave the form of religious teaching to the discretion of the Acting-Principal, as at present, and in the matter, of evening devotions to draft a form of short service, free from ritual, to be considered by the Board at a later meeting.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Jan 1920
Raising a question
Mr. Younghusband raised the question of adding to the business strength of the administration at Headquarters, and suggested that it might be submitted to a Special Convention, but the Chairman ruled that it would have to await the next Annual Convention in accordance with the notice already given by Mr. Scott.
Mr. Simpson gave some particulars of the Vasanta College and laid the Education Trust Board's report and balance-sheet upon the table. The accounts showed that the year's expenditure had been about £1200, met by school fees £700, guarantors' contributions £325, and small donations £175. Other donations had brought the capital to £1493, loans from members totalled £2015, and the amount borrowed on first mortgage was £3600. All the capital has been expended upon the property, the additions and furnishings, and the cash in hand will be nearly exhausted by the time that next year's fees become payable. The immediate need is for a wet-weather playroom and perhaps some sleeping shelters, as well as certain new appliances, a new piano, etc.
Mr. Scott said that we have undertaken to provide accommodation and good conditions, and we must "deliver the goods." He was sure that the school would develop. The Chairman expressed the pleasure it gave him to be staying at the College, and promised a gift of £20. It was understood that the subject would be brought up on another occasion, meantime the following resolution was passed: "That the attention of members be drawn to the need for increasing the Guaranteed Income Fund of the Vasanta College and to the fact that loans or gifts for further building operations will be needed."
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
Mr. Simpson gave some particulars of the Vasanta College and laid the Education Trust Board's report and balance-sheet upon the table. The accounts showed that the year's expenditure had been about £1200, met by school fees £700, guarantors' contributions £325, and small donations £175. Other donations had brought the capital to £1493, loans from members totalled £2015, and the amount borrowed on first mortgage was £3600. All the capital has been expended upon the property, the additions and furnishings, and the cash in hand will be nearly exhausted by the time that next year's fees become payable. The immediate need is for a wet-weather playroom and perhaps some sleeping shelters, as well as certain new appliances, a new piano, etc.
Mr. Scott said that we have undertaken to provide accommodation and good conditions, and we must "deliver the goods." He was sure that the school would develop. The Chairman expressed the pleasure it gave him to be staying at the College, and promised a gift of £20. It was understood that the subject would be brought up on another occasion, meantime the following resolution was passed: "That the attention of members be drawn to the need for increasing the Guaranteed Income Fund of the Vasanta College and to the fact that loans or gifts for further building operations will be needed."
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
Garden Party, Picnics, etc
On Friday, January 2nd, a Garden Party and Sale of Work took place in the grounds of Vasanta College, the proceeds being devoted to the H.P.B. Lodge Building Fund. It was a pleasant gathering, but members who were Masons had their day filled and were unable to attend. Next day saw the members at Cornwall Park, better known as One-Tree Hill, for a picnic. The weather conditions were again most favourable, and though one boy had eleven ices before lunch, there were no casualties. In the evening a Farewell Concert in the Society of Arts Hall was well attended. Mr. Butler had arranged a full programme, including two operettas by the Vasanta College children, and a scene from "Alice in Wonderland." Mr. W. A. Scott, with a mixture of humour and persistence, presented the claims and needs of the College. The hat and hat-box belonging to the Mad Hatter ware borrowed, and finally the College Treasurer announced the receipt of donations totalling £410.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1920
Vasanta College
Vasanta College began work on February 19th, nine days later than had been intended. Dr. Armstrong Smith's axiom that in a co-educational school there should be more boys than girls, is fulfilled by Vasanta; our attendance register shows now 27 boys and 14 girls. It is evident that a large schoolroom must soon be built, and the Trust will be glad to have further loans at five per cent. from those who have money to invest.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine March 1920
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine March 1920
NZ gives Assistance
The Brackenhill Home School, in its Second Annual Report, devotes a special paragraph to the assistance given by New Zealand. The training of our little protege, George Hurt, is being planned to suit the needs of his future in this Dominion. Owing to lack of space the latest report on the Home cannot be printed here, but will be sent to the Secretary of each Lodge almost immediately.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine May 1920
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine May 1920
Vasanta College
The children re-assembled on 1st June, after some hesitation on the part of the Health Department, which was afflicted by fears of influenza. Numbers remain as last reported, namely, about fifty in all. There are several changes in the staff. Mr. A. E. Manning took over the work as Acting-Principal on 20th April. Miss Stephenson, wishing to be relieved from the heavy work as House-mistress, the Board reluctantly acquiesced. Fortunately the occasion generally produces the willing helper, and we are fortunate in securing the services of Miss Mary Watson, an energetic organiser and an experienced nurse. Mr. S. W. Golding, late secretary of Wanganui Lodge, has kindly undertaken to manage the grounds and garden, enabling Mr. Vicary to have a much-needed change. Dr. Armstrong-Smith is not able to accept the post of Principal offered him by cable, but in a recent letter he expresses his intention of visiting the Dominion some day. Mr. S. T. Butler, L.R.A.M., will teach class singing to the children of Standards I. to VI. visiting the College twice a week for the purpose. Miss Una Dibble and Mr. Chas. Speedy are kindly conducting the Lotus Classes at the College each Sunday afternoon.
The children's gardens are now fenced in, and a play-shed of the open-air type, measuring 25 by 17 feet, is under construction.
The Board hopes to relieve the present congestion in the school-rooms, by building two new school-rooms as the ground floor of a building to which upper storeys can be added later. This will leave rooms which will supply an extra dormitory and an enlarged dining-room in the present building. The work will probably cost about £2,000, hut at present the project is only in outline. Further loans at five per cent. to cover this undertaking will he welcomed by the Board.
Members who subscribe to the Vasanta College Guarantee Fund are reminded that July is the month when these promises mature. Remittances should be addressed to the Treasurer, Education Trust, 351, Queen Street, Auckland.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine July 1920
The children's gardens are now fenced in, and a play-shed of the open-air type, measuring 25 by 17 feet, is under construction.
The Board hopes to relieve the present congestion in the school-rooms, by building two new school-rooms as the ground floor of a building to which upper storeys can be added later. This will leave rooms which will supply an extra dormitory and an enlarged dining-room in the present building. The work will probably cost about £2,000, hut at present the project is only in outline. Further loans at five per cent. to cover this undertaking will he welcomed by the Board.
Members who subscribe to the Vasanta College Guarantee Fund are reminded that July is the month when these promises mature. Remittances should be addressed to the Treasurer, Education Trust, 351, Queen Street, Auckland.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine July 1920
T.S. News Items
About two hundred persons, including the children, attended a Garden Social at Vasanta College, Auckland, on Saturday November 27th. Chairs were arranged on the lower lawn, and the children gave an hour's entertainment, consisting of an exhibition of a new ball game, singing, a violin solo, and two original speeches, one an account of an air-raid, the other a short life of R. L. Stevenson. The worn-out constitution of the piano made itself apparent, and it is to be hoped that some member with a piano to give, or to sell at a reasonable price, will remember the needs of the school. Afternoon tea completed an agreeable function.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Nov 1920
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Nov 1920
NZ TETB
All the members of the New Zealand Theosophical Educational Trust Board will retire from office on 31st December, 1920, in terms of the Board's constitution, and it will be the duty of Convention to elect a new Board. The Annual General Meeting of the Board will take place at Dunedin on Wednesday, 29th December.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Nov 1920
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Nov 1920
College resumes work
Vasanta College resumed work on February 8th with a "total of fifty-five scholars; of these, twenty-five are boarders, fourteen boys and eleven girls. Accommodation is taxed to the extreme limit, two children sleeping on the balcony, and four on camp beds in the Montessori school-room, while two boys, had to be refused altogether. The Trust Board is trying to obtain capital, by loan or donation, for the erection of further buildings which are needed immediately, and which it is hoped will enable the admission of all applicants next term.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
Convention Week Conference
Our report of the Convention proceedings at Dunedin, published in January, covered the activities of December 29th, 30th and 31st. The first day of the New Year was spent in a delightful picnic at Woodhaugh Gardens, during which, the members of the newly-appointed Educational Trust held their first meeting, appointed their officers, and secured the services of Miss A. M. Orr as First Assistant-teacher at Vasanta College.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
Fraternity in Education
Mr. J. R. Thomson presided at a conference of the Fraternity on Monday, January 3rd. Miss White, the Hon. Secretary, read her report for the year. Membership was reported at 100. The main work of the Fraternity during the year had been the establishment of the S.P.G.A. Junior League in the schools of the North Island. This was accomplished largely by the fine work of Miss Orr. The international magazine of the Fraternity, Education for the New Era, had been circulated .amongst teachers and others. Mr. Thomson was elected President for the year. Messrs. Carter and Lockett, Vice-presidents, and Miss A. White, Secretary and Treasurer.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine March 1921
Vasanta College
The College now has an average attendance of fifty-five, and the approach of winter compels the Board to make some further provision for warm schoolrooms. It has been decided to enclose with glass the open-air play-shed and to place a stove there. The £2,000 loan wanted for buildings has been subscribed only to the extent of £320, so far.
The raising of fees, which were adjusted to prices early in 1918, has been long postponed, but the Board has now, decided to make a slight increase, to operate from the beginning of the third term, viz., 20th September.
HOUSEHOLD HELP
The College needs the assistance of some young and vigorous member for household duties, which are light, and to share the "on duty" hours in charge of the children. Age should not exceed 35. Some experience with children is desirable. A knowledge of music and of games would be an advantage. Apply to the Secretary, Educational Trust, 351 Queen Street, Auckland.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine May 1921
The raising of fees, which were adjusted to prices early in 1918, has been long postponed, but the Board has now, decided to make a slight increase, to operate from the beginning of the third term, viz., 20th September.
HOUSEHOLD HELP
The College needs the assistance of some young and vigorous member for household duties, which are light, and to share the "on duty" hours in charge of the children. Age should not exceed 35. Some experience with children is desirable. A knowledge of music and of games would be an advantage. Apply to the Secretary, Educational Trust, 351 Queen Street, Auckland.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine May 1921
Vasanta Lodge gives to the school
Vasanta Lodge (formerly Onehunga), after an existence of seventeen years found its room required by the landlord, and other premises not being discoverable a meeting was held on the 7th June to consider the position. The difficulty of securing a quorum, owing to age, ill-health and removals, seemed unlikely to improve and it was decided to return the charter, to place the twelve financial members on the "Sectional” list, and to hand property and funds to Vasanta College.
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Sept 1921
From “Theosophy in New Zealand’ Magazine Sept 1921
News Items
The Educational Trust Board has received a cablegram from Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc., the new Principal of Vasanta College, stating that he will sail on Christmas Eve, travelling' via Suez by the Orient steamer " Ormonde."
VASANTA COLLEGE
The Auckland Executive of the Educational Trust have secured as Principal of Vasanta College, Mr. Ernest N. Fernyhough, B.Sc. (pronounced Fernyho), a member of the British Section of the T.S., who has been a teacher in Archdeacon Tenison's Secondary School at Harrow during the last twelve years, with the exception of three years spent on active service with the Royal Engineers. Mrs. Fernyhough, who also is a trained teacher, will act as Matron. They have two children, and they will reside at the College. In making this appointment the Executive has had the vigorous aid of the Educational Trust in London, and Miss Christie also has kindly helped in the negotiations. During the whole of the past three years the Executive has been seeking for a permanent Head, and now the prospects look bright, for Mr. Fernyhough is eager to put Theosophical ideals into practice and is making a monetary sacrifice in order to have the opportunity which this post will give him. The Trust will still need the financial help of members until the School reaches payable dimensions, and doubtless further eguipment will be needed when the Principal arrives in February next; nevertheless, if we can make Vasanta a model of Theosophical educational methods, we shall accomplish an important piece of practical objective work for the New Era, which will more than repay the sacrifices made by teachers, helpers and subscribers.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1921
VASANTA COLLEGE
The Auckland Executive of the Educational Trust have secured as Principal of Vasanta College, Mr. Ernest N. Fernyhough, B.Sc. (pronounced Fernyho), a member of the British Section of the T.S., who has been a teacher in Archdeacon Tenison's Secondary School at Harrow during the last twelve years, with the exception of three years spent on active service with the Royal Engineers. Mrs. Fernyhough, who also is a trained teacher, will act as Matron. They have two children, and they will reside at the College. In making this appointment the Executive has had the vigorous aid of the Educational Trust in London, and Miss Christie also has kindly helped in the negotiations. During the whole of the past three years the Executive has been seeking for a permanent Head, and now the prospects look bright, for Mr. Fernyhough is eager to put Theosophical ideals into practice and is making a monetary sacrifice in order to have the opportunity which this post will give him. The Trust will still need the financial help of members until the School reaches payable dimensions, and doubtless further eguipment will be needed when the Principal arrives in February next; nevertheless, if we can make Vasanta a model of Theosophical educational methods, we shall accomplish an important piece of practical objective work for the New Era, which will more than repay the sacrifices made by teachers, helpers and subscribers.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1921
T.S. News Items
Mrs. Ensor has sent acknowledgment, on behalf of the Brackenhill Home School, of the sum of fifty pounds, contributed by members of the N.Z. Section this year, and she forwards also a portrait of George Hurt, our protege, " who is becoming a very fine boy, with ample spirits and energy." He is now 11 years old.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1921
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1921
College Report
Mr. Simpson, President of the Educational Trust, laid on the table the Report and Balance-sheet of the Trust, and gave further details. A motion that Vasanta College be transformed into a day-school with a view to the early institution of similar day-schools in the other centres of the Dominion was moved by Mr. H. W. Young. Mr. Simpson gave particulars of the cost of running such schools, and said that an endowment would be needed for every centre. Miss E. Hunt wished to see at least one boarding-school running successfully in New Zealand, an after that day-schools in other centres might be started. Mr.Young's motion was put and lost, and the Trust's Report an Balance-sheet were adopted.
Fraternity in Education
Mr. Carter, Vice-president, took the Chair. The Organising Secretary, Miss A. White, read her report, and stated that the Fraternity is now a certificated branch of the International Fraternity. Officers for the coming year were appointed, namely, Mr. J. H. Simpson, president; Misses Montgomery and Mackellar, vice-presidents, Miss A. White, secretary and treasurer. It was resolved to issue a circular dealing with Vasanta College, and Mr. Yates was appointed to be the representative on the Workers' Education Council for Wellington and Taranaki Provinces.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
Fraternity in Education
Mr. Carter, Vice-president, took the Chair. The Organising Secretary, Miss A. White, read her report, and stated that the Fraternity is now a certificated branch of the International Fraternity. Officers for the coming year were appointed, namely, Mr. J. H. Simpson, president; Misses Montgomery and Mackellar, vice-presidents, Miss A. White, secretary and treasurer. It was resolved to issue a circular dealing with Vasanta College, and Mr. Yates was appointed to be the representative on the Workers' Education Council for Wellington and Taranaki Provinces.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
Vasanta College
The Annual Meeting of the Educational Trust Board was held at Wellington on the 26th December, 1921; ten members being present. The President, Mr. J. H. Simpson, took the Chair.
The President's Report and the Treasurer's Balance-sheet were adopted. In his survey of the year's results, the President pointed out that the financial result was not so good as in preceding years. In spite of an increase in the fees received' during the year, higher costs left a balance of £176 on the wrong side. New loan moneys to the extent of about £700 are kept in hand for building such additions as may be recommended by the new Principal, Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc., who is expected to reach New Zealand in February.
Miss M. Hamilton, the retiring Principal, in her Report, stated that the present roll is 51, with an average attendance for the year of 48. She considered that great progress had been made during the year, but said that there was a somewhat high percentage of children whose natural bias is not in the direction of intellectual activity. "Yet," she said, "they are not lacking in intelligence, and it is for such children that a deviation should be made from the ordinary syllabus. Unfortunately parents present the chief difficultyin this, as they expect the annual, or more frequent promotion, from class to class. Steady effort has been made to train the children in self-control; to develop habits of helping others, and of making small sacrifices, and especially to form the habit of concentrated work. In this the response has been very gratifying.
"Though our school-rooms are not yet fully equipped, we work in some respects under ideal conditions, so that steady work is easily possible, and punishments are reducible to a minimum. In the beauty of our playground we are probably second to none in the Dominion.
"An isolation room for the nursing of childish ailments is really necessary. Vegetarian food has been quite satisfactory throughout the year, in spite of several changes in the domestic staff. The children have been treated with kindness, sometimes indulgently treated. A cry of pain or ill-temper is almost unheard; most of their noise is joyous noise."
Miss Hamilton's Report was adopted, and the Board recorded their great appreciation of her work throughout the past year. At the close of the meeting a silver-mounted handbag was presented to Miss Hamilton from the members of the Board, as a small souvenir of her thirteen months' service as temporary Principal of Vasanta College.
Formal business before the Trust at this meeting was small. It was decided to publish a report of the school activities bi-monthly. Certain recommendations were made for the guidance of the executive.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
The President's Report and the Treasurer's Balance-sheet were adopted. In his survey of the year's results, the President pointed out that the financial result was not so good as in preceding years. In spite of an increase in the fees received' during the year, higher costs left a balance of £176 on the wrong side. New loan moneys to the extent of about £700 are kept in hand for building such additions as may be recommended by the new Principal, Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc., who is expected to reach New Zealand in February.
Miss M. Hamilton, the retiring Principal, in her Report, stated that the present roll is 51, with an average attendance for the year of 48. She considered that great progress had been made during the year, but said that there was a somewhat high percentage of children whose natural bias is not in the direction of intellectual activity. "Yet," she said, "they are not lacking in intelligence, and it is for such children that a deviation should be made from the ordinary syllabus. Unfortunately parents present the chief difficultyin this, as they expect the annual, or more frequent promotion, from class to class. Steady effort has been made to train the children in self-control; to develop habits of helping others, and of making small sacrifices, and especially to form the habit of concentrated work. In this the response has been very gratifying.
"Though our school-rooms are not yet fully equipped, we work in some respects under ideal conditions, so that steady work is easily possible, and punishments are reducible to a minimum. In the beauty of our playground we are probably second to none in the Dominion.
"An isolation room for the nursing of childish ailments is really necessary. Vegetarian food has been quite satisfactory throughout the year, in spite of several changes in the domestic staff. The children have been treated with kindness, sometimes indulgently treated. A cry of pain or ill-temper is almost unheard; most of their noise is joyous noise."
Miss Hamilton's Report was adopted, and the Board recorded their great appreciation of her work throughout the past year. At the close of the meeting a silver-mounted handbag was presented to Miss Hamilton from the members of the Board, as a small souvenir of her thirteen months' service as temporary Principal of Vasanta College.
Formal business before the Trust at this meeting was small. It was decided to publish a report of the school activities bi-monthly. Certain recommendations were made for the guidance of the executive.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
End of School Year
Vasanta College closed its school-year on December 16th, and wll not resume until February 21st, a week later than usual to allow time for the settling in of the new Principal, Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc. A garden party on the school lawns was given on December 3rd, when about one hundred friends were present. An entertainment, by the children reflected great credit both on the performers and the teachers; both singing and dancing being admirable. The grounds looked well. The retiring Principal, Miss M. Hamilton, thought it doubtful if any school in the Dominion has a playground of equal beauty.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan 1922
Vasanta College
The long vacation has been far from an idle time at Vasanta. The Matron and her helpers have been filling the shelves with bottled fruit and jams. The painting and staining, the cleaning, remaking and rearranging, can be imagined only by those who have been through the experience. Mr. Blackman, in charge of the additions, hurried on the new sleeping shelter, 37 x 9 feet, in wood and polite, and the new lavatory in brick, so that things were complete just in time for re-opening on February 21st. The mental sufferings of the Executive ceased when, on January 30th, a cablegram reported the arrival of the new Principal and his party at Adelaide. So he really was on the "Ormonde"! It was good of them to forfeit their last Christmas in England and leave on December 24th in order to be in time to begin our school year in February 1922. That is the spirit which will make a great school of Vasanta. For the benefit of the astrologers we may say that it was February the 15th, 10.15 p.m., and a dark night, when the taxi reached the College, temporarily blazing with all its lights on, and Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, Mrs Fernyhough, Enid aged eight and Brenda aged one and a bit, entered into residence.
An "At Home" on the lawns, on one of Auckland's red-hot February afternoons, gave opportunity for about one hundred members and parents of pupils to welcome the new Heads. The grounds were in fine order and all are agreed that we could scarcely find better surroundings for the children than we now have.
Dr. Giles, the first president of the Trust, unable to be present, sent a note, some lines from which epitomise the feelings of many other members who are unable to offer in person their welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Fernyhough. "Convey to them my warm greeting and my earnest hopes that their connexion with the College will be long, and prosperous alike to them and to a large number of the Dominion's future men and women. I am sure their efforts will be seconded and reinforced by the silent but earnest thoughts of many Theosophical well-wishers throughout New Zealand."
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine March 1922
An "At Home" on the lawns, on one of Auckland's red-hot February afternoons, gave opportunity for about one hundred members and parents of pupils to welcome the new Heads. The grounds were in fine order and all are agreed that we could scarcely find better surroundings for the children than we now have.
Dr. Giles, the first president of the Trust, unable to be present, sent a note, some lines from which epitomise the feelings of many other members who are unable to offer in person their welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Fernyhough. "Convey to them my warm greeting and my earnest hopes that their connexion with the College will be long, and prosperous alike to them and to a large number of the Dominion's future men and women. I am sure their efforts will be seconded and reinforced by the silent but earnest thoughts of many Theosophical well-wishers throughout New Zealand."
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine March 1922
From Far and Near
Vasanta College, established by the New Zealand Section in 1918, calls attention, in a supplemental sheet, to its need for the enthusiastic support of T.S. members. The school, under its new Head, promises to fulfil all our hopes, but it suffers from a want of capital, and especially this year from a fall in income, due, we think, almost entirely to the prevailing monetary tightness. The Trust has considered alternative schemes, but figures show that the likeliest avenue to success is along the present line of a co-educational day and boarding school. The school roll of 54 compares favourably with the roll of 72 at the Morven Garden School, maintained by our sister-section in Sydney, but the larger proportion of day-scholars in the Auckland school makes the financial comparison less favourable to New Zealand, inasmuch as day-scholars are relatively less profitable. Vasanta College has been fortunate in receiving much gratuitous service in the past, and local members help in many ways, one giving a picnic, another a musical evening, a third keeping the flower-beds in order, and so on, while at the present time a working-bee is spending laborious Saturday afternoons upon the new Arts and Crafts Room. A school, however, is a costly venture and the areas which are able to profit most by its existence are not strong enough alone to bear the outlay. The aid of the whole Society is essential to the prosecution of this work, including the remoter districts who unselfishly support the Trust without any immediate prospect of advantage or return.
OUR SCHOOL
At the Fellowship Meeting of the H.P.B. Lodge,Auckland, on March 21st, Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc., Principal of Vasanta College, made an appeal to members to form a working-bee for the erection of an Arts and Crafts Room at the College. This appeal was responded to by several members, while others gave money amounting to S25/18/-. Mr. J. Zahara offered an old two-roomed cottage; a very valuable contribution towards the timber and iron needed. Mr. Fernyhough said :—"At the College we are aiming at the three main principles, wisdom, strength and beauty. Wisdom will come last, of course. Strength will be developed in the practice of the ideas of beauty which we propose to keep constantly before the children. We are asking them to promise not to gossip, which implies that they will not speak, write, or even think of anyone without something within them warning that they should be very careful that what they are about to do will help and not hinder. We want this kept strictly, in spirit and in letter; but it is a difficult thing, so we have not asked them to promise to do it, but to promise to try to do it. We have made it clear that if there is anyone who cannot honestly say that he can keep the promise, he should not make it. It was a delight to find that there was one who said he could not take it. But I think we can rely upon him to do his best, and he will let me know when he feels able to take and keep this pledge.
"We wish to follow Dr. Armstrong-Smith's methods, which have been so successful at Arundale in England. He based his scheme on the principle that beautiful colours and beautiful sounds lead to beautiful thoughts and feelings. Unfortunately at the moment we are not in a position to give our children of the best in music; but we should like, as soon as we possibly can, to install a gramaphone provided with records of the finest instrumental music that the world knows. It has been Dr. Armstrong-Smith's experience that the children demand the best. They want Wagner, Beethoven and the great masters of music. They will not tolerate anything inferior.
"With regard to colours, we have now a Common-room for the children but it is not yet fitted up as it should be. We want that Common-room to be a thing of beauty both in colour and design.Of course, it would be more or less easy to create for the children a room that would be beautiful; but it would not be appreciated by them as much as if they took a share in making it beautiful. With that in view we propose that the children shall co-operate with us in the design, and as far as possible carry out their own scheme. They have already chosen a colour scheme of blue and gold. I do not know whether it is altogether a wise choice, but, as I said before, wisdom is the last attribute to be attained, but I think it is an artistic scheme and that the children will take care of their room and be very proud of it.
"Beautiful grounds we already have, and although the grounds at Arundale school are more extensive—they comprise, I think, 20 to 24 acres—they are not so delightful., We certainly have beauty there, but not yet in the Common-room or the Class-rooms. We have the promise of some help towards achieving our aims, and I am sure the children will be very grateful for any further assistance.
" The Board have sanctioned the erection of a Workshop, or, rather, an Arts and Crafts Room, for sometimes the term Workshop implies merely carpentry—making dovetail joints and other things of no interest to children— but this room will be not only for carpentry, but for art needlework, modelling, pottery, and any other kind of handicraft which the children wish to take up. They will be invited to form a Guild and each member will have a certificate of membership, which I am copying from the one which is used at Arundale. This reads :—" The object of the Guild is to serve by expressing the Divine in its aspect of beauty. This principle must first be expressed in unfailing courtesy of conduct and cleanliness of body, Members must be quick to notice and to remedy anything in the nature of disorder. Members must undertake some specific craft or art, with the immediate object of beautifying the school and must satisfy the Master Craftsman of their ability to accomplish the work. The Master must be satisfied, too, that those who seek membership will be able to carry out the work and to live up to the principles."
Mr. Fernyhough then made an appeal for names for the working-bee. He said " We must have this workshop quickly. It is of no use to preach every morning, ' Beauty, Beauty, Beauty.' They will get tired of it. They want some way of expressing beauty." Mr. Fernyhough then mentioned the Vasanta Co-operative Guild, comprising parents, subscribers, and others who are interested in the school. The subscription is only one shilling per annum, and the Hon. Secretary, Mr. T. Tidswell, will be glad to receive names.
Mr. J. R. Thomson, said, "We are really trying to fit ourselves to be custodians of the Wisdom for this Dominion. The ordinary school does not educate to any appreciable extent. Many educationalists are imbued with the old notion that the present system is all that it ought' to be, though it has failed utterly to touch the noblest? part of the child, for the simple reason that those at the head of it have no idea of the highest and best in the child. That is the radical difference between a Theosophical school and an ordinary school. Our school is intended to be a place where the cream of the nation shall be educated. It is not the weak, inefficient souls we want, but the very best. We want our Theosophical school to be a centre in the Dominion where we can educate and draw out the qualities of our future leaders, artists, and craftsmen, and there is no place where that can be better done than under a Theosophical roof. Members can help if they will, but some will not, because they are ignorant of the great ideal. There should be places for the undeveloped and the weak egos, but not necessarily in a Theosophical school. Those who seek to help should try to visualise the ideal school and weave around Vasanta College, which is the nucleus of a number of schools in our Dominion, a halo of the noblest and the best thought they can command, and thus protect it from the intrusion of undesirable thoughts. This will make an atmosphere in which the best souls in our Dominion will grow and expand rapidly. Many have that ideal, but others are so tied to a smaller conception of things that they are hindering the realisation of that great ideal by pin-pricking regarding small details. Some think that the school is not successful. They lack vision. We need men and women with imagination, with power to see the future-and to detect the nascent qualities lying in those egos. We want everyone to co-operate in this sublime work, and if you want to develop vision,—believe and trust. There is one of the Great Brotherhood who has education as His special department, and if we make the right atmosphere He will ray upon Vasanta College His wisdom, because we, in our small way, are specialising it as a centre of the Wisdom. We make the conditions and He fills the cup. Those who constantly emphasise small details make leaks in the channel through which the force plays. It is not our College; it is not the Board's College; it is the Masters' College. Mistakes we have made, difficulties we have overcome, but that College will be, it must be, a success, if we play our part. We have all made difficulties; the Principal will perhaps make mistakes, but we shall create truly if we have the creative idea. Build, therefore, in your meditation every day, an uplifting noble thought around the College; visualise the great ideal which We shall attain. We are all seeking to make the College a success, but there is a lack of that Intuitive perception of the goal. I want each member of this Lodge to feel that it is his privilege to make it a success. We should go forward shoulder to shoulder and unitedly do the work, and never mind the pessimists, because it is to be a wonderful success. We are going to do the work for this Dominion. It is through education that achievement is to be obtained. It is to be obtained by your and my cooperation in this splendid work. You can; nay, you will, make it a success.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1922
OUR SCHOOL
At the Fellowship Meeting of the H.P.B. Lodge,Auckland, on March 21st, Mr. E. N. Fernyhough, B.Sc., Principal of Vasanta College, made an appeal to members to form a working-bee for the erection of an Arts and Crafts Room at the College. This appeal was responded to by several members, while others gave money amounting to S25/18/-. Mr. J. Zahara offered an old two-roomed cottage; a very valuable contribution towards the timber and iron needed. Mr. Fernyhough said :—"At the College we are aiming at the three main principles, wisdom, strength and beauty. Wisdom will come last, of course. Strength will be developed in the practice of the ideas of beauty which we propose to keep constantly before the children. We are asking them to promise not to gossip, which implies that they will not speak, write, or even think of anyone without something within them warning that they should be very careful that what they are about to do will help and not hinder. We want this kept strictly, in spirit and in letter; but it is a difficult thing, so we have not asked them to promise to do it, but to promise to try to do it. We have made it clear that if there is anyone who cannot honestly say that he can keep the promise, he should not make it. It was a delight to find that there was one who said he could not take it. But I think we can rely upon him to do his best, and he will let me know when he feels able to take and keep this pledge.
"We wish to follow Dr. Armstrong-Smith's methods, which have been so successful at Arundale in England. He based his scheme on the principle that beautiful colours and beautiful sounds lead to beautiful thoughts and feelings. Unfortunately at the moment we are not in a position to give our children of the best in music; but we should like, as soon as we possibly can, to install a gramaphone provided with records of the finest instrumental music that the world knows. It has been Dr. Armstrong-Smith's experience that the children demand the best. They want Wagner, Beethoven and the great masters of music. They will not tolerate anything inferior.
"With regard to colours, we have now a Common-room for the children but it is not yet fitted up as it should be. We want that Common-room to be a thing of beauty both in colour and design.Of course, it would be more or less easy to create for the children a room that would be beautiful; but it would not be appreciated by them as much as if they took a share in making it beautiful. With that in view we propose that the children shall co-operate with us in the design, and as far as possible carry out their own scheme. They have already chosen a colour scheme of blue and gold. I do not know whether it is altogether a wise choice, but, as I said before, wisdom is the last attribute to be attained, but I think it is an artistic scheme and that the children will take care of their room and be very proud of it.
"Beautiful grounds we already have, and although the grounds at Arundale school are more extensive—they comprise, I think, 20 to 24 acres—they are not so delightful., We certainly have beauty there, but not yet in the Common-room or the Class-rooms. We have the promise of some help towards achieving our aims, and I am sure the children will be very grateful for any further assistance.
" The Board have sanctioned the erection of a Workshop, or, rather, an Arts and Crafts Room, for sometimes the term Workshop implies merely carpentry—making dovetail joints and other things of no interest to children— but this room will be not only for carpentry, but for art needlework, modelling, pottery, and any other kind of handicraft which the children wish to take up. They will be invited to form a Guild and each member will have a certificate of membership, which I am copying from the one which is used at Arundale. This reads :—" The object of the Guild is to serve by expressing the Divine in its aspect of beauty. This principle must first be expressed in unfailing courtesy of conduct and cleanliness of body, Members must be quick to notice and to remedy anything in the nature of disorder. Members must undertake some specific craft or art, with the immediate object of beautifying the school and must satisfy the Master Craftsman of their ability to accomplish the work. The Master must be satisfied, too, that those who seek membership will be able to carry out the work and to live up to the principles."
Mr. Fernyhough then made an appeal for names for the working-bee. He said " We must have this workshop quickly. It is of no use to preach every morning, ' Beauty, Beauty, Beauty.' They will get tired of it. They want some way of expressing beauty." Mr. Fernyhough then mentioned the Vasanta Co-operative Guild, comprising parents, subscribers, and others who are interested in the school. The subscription is only one shilling per annum, and the Hon. Secretary, Mr. T. Tidswell, will be glad to receive names.
Mr. J. R. Thomson, said, "We are really trying to fit ourselves to be custodians of the Wisdom for this Dominion. The ordinary school does not educate to any appreciable extent. Many educationalists are imbued with the old notion that the present system is all that it ought' to be, though it has failed utterly to touch the noblest? part of the child, for the simple reason that those at the head of it have no idea of the highest and best in the child. That is the radical difference between a Theosophical school and an ordinary school. Our school is intended to be a place where the cream of the nation shall be educated. It is not the weak, inefficient souls we want, but the very best. We want our Theosophical school to be a centre in the Dominion where we can educate and draw out the qualities of our future leaders, artists, and craftsmen, and there is no place where that can be better done than under a Theosophical roof. Members can help if they will, but some will not, because they are ignorant of the great ideal. There should be places for the undeveloped and the weak egos, but not necessarily in a Theosophical school. Those who seek to help should try to visualise the ideal school and weave around Vasanta College, which is the nucleus of a number of schools in our Dominion, a halo of the noblest and the best thought they can command, and thus protect it from the intrusion of undesirable thoughts. This will make an atmosphere in which the best souls in our Dominion will grow and expand rapidly. Many have that ideal, but others are so tied to a smaller conception of things that they are hindering the realisation of that great ideal by pin-pricking regarding small details. Some think that the school is not successful. They lack vision. We need men and women with imagination, with power to see the future-and to detect the nascent qualities lying in those egos. We want everyone to co-operate in this sublime work, and if you want to develop vision,—believe and trust. There is one of the Great Brotherhood who has education as His special department, and if we make the right atmosphere He will ray upon Vasanta College His wisdom, because we, in our small way, are specialising it as a centre of the Wisdom. We make the conditions and He fills the cup. Those who constantly emphasise small details make leaks in the channel through which the force plays. It is not our College; it is not the Board's College; it is the Masters' College. Mistakes we have made, difficulties we have overcome, but that College will be, it must be, a success, if we play our part. We have all made difficulties; the Principal will perhaps make mistakes, but we shall create truly if we have the creative idea. Build, therefore, in your meditation every day, an uplifting noble thought around the College; visualise the great ideal which We shall attain. We are all seeking to make the College a success, but there is a lack of that Intuitive perception of the goal. I want each member of this Lodge to feel that it is his privilege to make it a success. We should go forward shoulder to shoulder and unitedly do the work, and never mind the pessimists, because it is to be a wonderful success. We are going to do the work for this Dominion. It is through education that achievement is to be obtained. It is to be obtained by your and my cooperation in this splendid work. You can; nay, you will, make it a success.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1922
Vasanta College
The second term of our fourth year opened on 6th June with a roll of 58 pupils (31 boys and 27 girls). We have only eleven boarders, and should be glad to fill the remaining beds. During the short holiday of eighteen days the Principal and his family stayed at Milford Beach, but alack, in almost continuous wet weather. Three boys remained at the College, and two girls were entertained at the house of one of our T.S. members. Just before the first term ended, the children repapered and painted their Common-room, doing the work quite skilfully and with pleasing results. The new Arts and Crafts Room has been a long time in hand,owing to the helpers having only Saturday afternoons to give to the work, but we are now getting some special labour to make a rapid completion. Volunteer help has done some necessary grading and tarring of paths, one of the many jobs which a large property is constantly offering to those whose motto is "Service."
We have had a timely offer from a friend who undertakes to set up in the Arts and Crafts Room a potter's wheel, and to give some instruction, as well as, finally, to bake the art products.
In the School things are going on well. A weekly meeting of the upper school and staff has been instituted to talk over together details of work and administration. The children of Standards V. and VI. visit the Technical Schools for weekly lessons, and it was found that the Cookery classes for girls were rather unpleasantly concentrated on meat dishes. Mrs. Fernyhough interviewed the Instructress, who very kindly undertook to bear in mind the vegetarian principles on which our School is managed, and the children's dislike for meat and its smells.
The appeal issued by the Board through this magazine caused some few kind friends to send in promises of support, but the number was very small and the addition to our income was less than twenty-five pounds. However, there must be over eleven hundred members who are hesitating how much to forward, and if they average only five shillings per head the deficit will be filled up.
Annual Subscribers to the Income Fund should receive with this issue a copy of the School prospectus. Perhaps they may be able to place it where it will bear fruit.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine July 1922
We have had a timely offer from a friend who undertakes to set up in the Arts and Crafts Room a potter's wheel, and to give some instruction, as well as, finally, to bake the art products.
In the School things are going on well. A weekly meeting of the upper school and staff has been instituted to talk over together details of work and administration. The children of Standards V. and VI. visit the Technical Schools for weekly lessons, and it was found that the Cookery classes for girls were rather unpleasantly concentrated on meat dishes. Mrs. Fernyhough interviewed the Instructress, who very kindly undertook to bear in mind the vegetarian principles on which our School is managed, and the children's dislike for meat and its smells.
The appeal issued by the Board through this magazine caused some few kind friends to send in promises of support, but the number was very small and the addition to our income was less than twenty-five pounds. However, there must be over eleven hundred members who are hesitating how much to forward, and if they average only five shillings per head the deficit will be filled up.
Annual Subscribers to the Income Fund should receive with this issue a copy of the School prospectus. Perhaps they may be able to place it where it will bear fruit.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine July 1922
The Children's Corner
The principal event of the past month at Vasanta College, Auckland, was the opening of the new building, measuring 25 x 15 feet, which has been erected by volunteer labour. The opening ceremony, conducted by the General Secretary, Mr. J. R. Thomson, is here described by one of the scholars.—Ed.
ACCOUNT OF THE OPENING OF THE GUILD OF ARTS AND CRAFTS' WORKROOM OF VASANTA COLLEGE.
On August 12th Mr. Thomson opened the Arts and Crafts' workroom. There were quite a large number of people present, and the room was packed tightly. On entering the door, on the left hand side, is the metal-work bench, made of solid rough wood, which will bear any amount of hammering and bumping. Further along, on the same side, is the more delicately-made bench for the girls sewing department. The contrast between the two is very marked. Although the room is of a fair size it is not yet large enough for all the crafts which will be practised there. Mr. Scott gave to the metal-work department a piece of tram rail to use as an anvil.
The room is on the slope of Mount St. John and is consequently very sunny and airy, and is overlooking the valley and Mount Eden. The inside has chocolate-coloured walls with a white plaster ceiling, across which are battens. It was decorated by some members of the upper classes with white narcissi, which showed up delicately against the dark walls and looked very artistic. Mr. Thomson's speech greatly impressed the elder children, and all listened intently. Mr. Thomson emphasised especially that the work of the Guild must be good, as every careful piece of work made a character better. These simple words made one's fingers itch to do some beautiful piece of work for the benefit of the school. On the wall above the speaker's head hung a panel, so as to attract the notice of anyone entering the door, on it was printed in Old English letters of blue and gold these words, "For the highest." After this Mr. Fernyhough closed the meeting. On the arrival of the potter's wheel, which is kindly promised us by Mr. Gardiner, the Guild will be completed with these crafts: needle-work, metal-work, wood-work, bee-keeping, basket and leather work, pottery, drawing and electrical departments.
Dorothy Stephenson
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Sept 1922
ACCOUNT OF THE OPENING OF THE GUILD OF ARTS AND CRAFTS' WORKROOM OF VASANTA COLLEGE.
On August 12th Mr. Thomson opened the Arts and Crafts' workroom. There were quite a large number of people present, and the room was packed tightly. On entering the door, on the left hand side, is the metal-work bench, made of solid rough wood, which will bear any amount of hammering and bumping. Further along, on the same side, is the more delicately-made bench for the girls sewing department. The contrast between the two is very marked. Although the room is of a fair size it is not yet large enough for all the crafts which will be practised there. Mr. Scott gave to the metal-work department a piece of tram rail to use as an anvil.
The room is on the slope of Mount St. John and is consequently very sunny and airy, and is overlooking the valley and Mount Eden. The inside has chocolate-coloured walls with a white plaster ceiling, across which are battens. It was decorated by some members of the upper classes with white narcissi, which showed up delicately against the dark walls and looked very artistic. Mr. Thomson's speech greatly impressed the elder children, and all listened intently. Mr. Thomson emphasised especially that the work of the Guild must be good, as every careful piece of work made a character better. These simple words made one's fingers itch to do some beautiful piece of work for the benefit of the school. On the wall above the speaker's head hung a panel, so as to attract the notice of anyone entering the door, on it was printed in Old English letters of blue and gold these words, "For the highest." After this Mr. Fernyhough closed the meeting. On the arrival of the potter's wheel, which is kindly promised us by Mr. Gardiner, the Guild will be completed with these crafts: needle-work, metal-work, wood-work, bee-keeping, basket and leather work, pottery, drawing and electrical departments.
Dorothy Stephenson
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Sept 1922
Vasanta College
Vasanta College concluded its second term on 1st September, and will be in vacation until the 19th.
The new Arts and Crafts Room was opened on 12th August and an account of the ceremony will be found in the Children's Corner. The Trust Board desire to specially thank Mr. A. H. S. McLeod (designer and director) together with all helpers who contributed to the erection and equipment of this important addition. Benches are now in, cupboards made, and tools purchased.
The Treasurer of the Trust (351 Queen Street, Auckland ) will be glad to receive a remittance from guarantors and donors who have not yet sent in their annual contribution. The financial year will close on 30th of November.
The attention of all our readers is drawn to the Trust Board's supplement to this issue.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Sept 1922
The new Arts and Crafts Room was opened on 12th August and an account of the ceremony will be found in the Children's Corner. The Trust Board desire to specially thank Mr. A. H. S. McLeod (designer and director) together with all helpers who contributed to the erection and equipment of this important addition. Benches are now in, cupboards made, and tools purchased.
The Treasurer of the Trust (351 Queen Street, Auckland ) will be glad to receive a remittance from guarantors and donors who have not yet sent in their annual contribution. The financial year will close on 30th of November.
The attention of all our readers is drawn to the Trust Board's supplement to this issue.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Sept 1922
Vasanta College
AN AFTERNOON IN THE ARTS AND CRAFTS WORKSHOP.
At the Council meeting of the previous Friday the work for the ensuing week was decided upon, and now the Master Craftsmen are busy in arranging the work. There are plans to prepare for the book shelves; Dick is to prepare the drawings for an easel to hold a picture; Roy is to proceed with the steps for the kitchen, the drawings for which have been already passed by the Council; and so the preparation goes on.
In five minutes more, the workshop is transformed from a peaceful, orderly room, into a busy shop. The noise is, as a rule, too great for one to hear oneself speak, and the noise incidental to hammering metal upon the anvil, a piece of tram-rail acquired through the kindness of Mr. Scott, and of hammering nails into wood, is usually augmented by the happy singing of the workers. A stranger entering the room would perhaps stand for quite an appreciable time unnoticed,—not, be it Understood, through lack of courtesy on the part of the workers, but because they are so intent upon their work.
In the corner, here, upon the left, behind the door, is the metal-work bench. Round the wall you will notice the racks that hold the tools, and underneath the bench, each on its own hook, are the templates Mr. Scott made for us. Here you see Fred using one. He is making a bucket from a petrol can, and a very substantial bucket it will be, too. A little further down the same bench, Lionel is doing some beaten copper work.
The next bench you will see is very much more lightly built. This was made for the girls, for needlework, but you will see leather-workers at it now; Margaret is making a pair of slippers for Brenda, and Graham a serviette ring.
That small cupboard at the end of the room, under the motto, is the work of the Master Craftsman of the Carpentry Department: no, not quite all his own, but the majority—not bad work is it? It is to contain the carpentry tools. It has been rather neglected lately, because several of the Master Craftsmen have been engaged in erecting the shed for the pottery wheel.It was not realised that the pottery wheel would require a shed all to itself, so that is why the Master Craftsmen are hastening with it now. Several of the younger people are watching its growth with great interest.
Yes, that big cupboard at the other end of the room contains the half-finished work. You will notice the beehives on the top. The members of the Guild are anxious to augment their present income and have started keeping bees. The Master Craftsman of the bees was asked, the other day, if he would write an article, "Bees and How They Sting," but before he could answer it was suggested that " Stings, and How They Be" would prove more interesting.
Before going back along this Side of the room, let us see what this young gentleman is doing. He is hard at work on this fret-saw machine, so kindly given us by Mrs. Woolcott. He is making a jig-saw puzzle. How simple it is to make! Here is the set of wood-carving tools given to us by Mrs. Buttle, and here is the rack for the leather work.
Just look at all the children! Aren't they happy? And their work—all of their own creation!
FINANCE
The Treasurer of the Trust is happy to report that loans have been promised almost sufficient to enable the mortgage payment of £1,000 to be made in January.
Unfortunately the Income Fund, fed by guaranteed subscriptions and donations is very deficient this year. Donations are barely half of former years. Members who subscribe annually and who have not yet remitted, are requested to kindly do so at once, as the financial year closeson 30th November. Address The Treasurer, Theosophical Education Trust, 351, Queen Street, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1922
At the Council meeting of the previous Friday the work for the ensuing week was decided upon, and now the Master Craftsmen are busy in arranging the work. There are plans to prepare for the book shelves; Dick is to prepare the drawings for an easel to hold a picture; Roy is to proceed with the steps for the kitchen, the drawings for which have been already passed by the Council; and so the preparation goes on.
In five minutes more, the workshop is transformed from a peaceful, orderly room, into a busy shop. The noise is, as a rule, too great for one to hear oneself speak, and the noise incidental to hammering metal upon the anvil, a piece of tram-rail acquired through the kindness of Mr. Scott, and of hammering nails into wood, is usually augmented by the happy singing of the workers. A stranger entering the room would perhaps stand for quite an appreciable time unnoticed,—not, be it Understood, through lack of courtesy on the part of the workers, but because they are so intent upon their work.
In the corner, here, upon the left, behind the door, is the metal-work bench. Round the wall you will notice the racks that hold the tools, and underneath the bench, each on its own hook, are the templates Mr. Scott made for us. Here you see Fred using one. He is making a bucket from a petrol can, and a very substantial bucket it will be, too. A little further down the same bench, Lionel is doing some beaten copper work.
The next bench you will see is very much more lightly built. This was made for the girls, for needlework, but you will see leather-workers at it now; Margaret is making a pair of slippers for Brenda, and Graham a serviette ring.
That small cupboard at the end of the room, under the motto, is the work of the Master Craftsman of the Carpentry Department: no, not quite all his own, but the majority—not bad work is it? It is to contain the carpentry tools. It has been rather neglected lately, because several of the Master Craftsmen have been engaged in erecting the shed for the pottery wheel.It was not realised that the pottery wheel would require a shed all to itself, so that is why the Master Craftsmen are hastening with it now. Several of the younger people are watching its growth with great interest.
Yes, that big cupboard at the other end of the room contains the half-finished work. You will notice the beehives on the top. The members of the Guild are anxious to augment their present income and have started keeping bees. The Master Craftsman of the bees was asked, the other day, if he would write an article, "Bees and How They Sting," but before he could answer it was suggested that " Stings, and How They Be" would prove more interesting.
Before going back along this Side of the room, let us see what this young gentleman is doing. He is hard at work on this fret-saw machine, so kindly given us by Mrs. Woolcott. He is making a jig-saw puzzle. How simple it is to make! Here is the set of wood-carving tools given to us by Mrs. Buttle, and here is the rack for the leather work.
Just look at all the children! Aren't they happy? And their work—all of their own creation!
FINANCE
The Treasurer of the Trust is happy to report that loans have been promised almost sufficient to enable the mortgage payment of £1,000 to be made in January.
Unfortunately the Income Fund, fed by guaranteed subscriptions and donations is very deficient this year. Donations are barely half of former years. Members who subscribe annually and who have not yet remitted, are requested to kindly do so at once, as the financial year closeson 30th November. Address The Treasurer, Theosophical Education Trust, 351, Queen Street, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1922
Acknowledgement
The Treasurer of the Brackenhill Home acknowledges with many thanks the £50 forwarded in July for the New Zealand Cot. George Hurt is now on a farm and will soon be ready to come to the Dominion. The editor of this magazine will be glad to hear of a suitable home for him where he can obtain a knowledge of farming.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1922
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Nov 1922
Theosophical Education Trust Board
The Theosophical Educational Trust Board held its annual meeting on December 26th, at 10 a.m. The President's annual report and the Treasurer's report, were read and adopted. The number of pupils at 30th November, 1931, was thirty; seven new pupils having joined, and thirteen left during the year. The work of the school under Miss Darroch' and Miss Worthington has been carried on happily and successfully. The report of the Government Inspector states that "the work of the school is being conducted in a very efficient manner—the methods employed are on modern lines and are educationally sound . . . abundant opportunity is provided for the development of initiative and independence of thought and action; the order and control, the general bearing of the pupils, their attitude to their work, and their willing response, are very good indeed, and reflect much credit upon the conduct of the school . . . Adequate provision is made for the development of social graces and the cultural and physical side of the children's natures."
The Treasurer's report gave assurance as to the future, but called for immediate help for the present. The sinking fund for working off the mortgage has been strengthened by a gift of £ 1,000 in the form of mortgages from the New Zealand Section, being part proceeds of the sale of Vasanta Farm. Generous assistance from friends, who wish to remain anonymous, had enabled the Board to pay off £ 100 of the mortgage in August, a further repayment to be made on February 1st, 1932. The Revenue Account also benefited during the year, by the proceeds from a Garden" Party, about £ 60, and an appeal sent out by Mrs. Crawford to members of the Section, £60.
While expressing deep appreciation for this valuable assistance, the Treasurer pointed out that the Board was in a more difficult position than it was a year ago—owing to the fact that two important pieces of work had to be done during the year, expenditure had exceeded income by £197. He pointed out that members throughout New Zealand have money invested in this property, and the whole Section is deeply interested in the welfare of the scheme. It was resolved to make a strong appeal for help to meet the present emergency, and Mr. H. G. R. Mason consented to bring the matter before the assembled delegates and members during Convention week. (This appeal was made and brought forth the splendid response of close on £100.)
The resignation of Miss G. Watkin from the Presidency of the Board, owing to pressure of work, was received amid expressions of regret, and Miss G. M. Hemus was elected to fill the position for the remainder of the term.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb 1932
The Treasurer's report gave assurance as to the future, but called for immediate help for the present. The sinking fund for working off the mortgage has been strengthened by a gift of £ 1,000 in the form of mortgages from the New Zealand Section, being part proceeds of the sale of Vasanta Farm. Generous assistance from friends, who wish to remain anonymous, had enabled the Board to pay off £ 100 of the mortgage in August, a further repayment to be made on February 1st, 1932. The Revenue Account also benefited during the year, by the proceeds from a Garden" Party, about £ 60, and an appeal sent out by Mrs. Crawford to members of the Section, £60.
While expressing deep appreciation for this valuable assistance, the Treasurer pointed out that the Board was in a more difficult position than it was a year ago—owing to the fact that two important pieces of work had to be done during the year, expenditure had exceeded income by £197. He pointed out that members throughout New Zealand have money invested in this property, and the whole Section is deeply interested in the welfare of the scheme. It was resolved to make a strong appeal for help to meet the present emergency, and Mr. H. G. R. Mason consented to bring the matter before the assembled delegates and members during Convention week. (This appeal was made and brought forth the splendid response of close on £100.)
The resignation of Miss G. Watkin from the Presidency of the Board, owing to pressure of work, was received amid expressions of regret, and Miss G. M. Hemus was elected to fill the position for the remainder of the term.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb 1932
Former Pupils of Vasanta
A meeting of the old pupils of Vasanta Garden School was held in the Assembly Hall on June 25th, for the purpose of forming an Association. It was decided to call the Association The Former Pupils of Vasanta. The Committee of the newly-formed Association arranged a Social, which was held in the Assembly HallonJuly 30. "Former Pupils" and their friends enjoyed a very pleasant evening,—dancing, playing games and renewing old friendships. All former pupils of Vasanta Garden School who wish to become members of the above Association are cordially invited to communicate with the President, Miss B. H. Darroch, Principal, Vasanta Garden School, Epsom.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine August 1932
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine August 1932
Vasanta Garden School
VASANTA GARDEN SCHOOL,
Epsom, Auckland, SE3.,
20th May, 1933.
Dear Fellow Member,
A scheme has been brought forward for the development of the school that embodies an ideal long cherished by parents and teachers alike. It is the establishing of a Secondary Department, in charge of a male teacher.
Miss Darroch, Principal of Vasanta School, advises us that the time is now most opportune for putting this ideal into practice. Otherwise eight or nine excellent Proficiency pupils will be drafted into other Secondary Schools, and lost to Vasanta, at the end of this year.
There is ample accommodation in the school buildings as they now stand, and the fees of such pupils would go towards defraying expenses. As, however, the present financial position does not allow for expenditure, and the salaries of our teachers must be assured, we cannot carry on without the support of every member who is interested in the success of the school.
We shall deeply appreciate any contribution sent to us for this important work.
With heartiest good wishes,
Yours sincerely,
Kathleen Crawford.
Contributions to be sent to:
Mrs. W. Crawford,
11 Belvedere Street, Epsom, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1933
Epsom, Auckland, SE3.,
20th May, 1933.
Dear Fellow Member,
A scheme has been brought forward for the development of the school that embodies an ideal long cherished by parents and teachers alike. It is the establishing of a Secondary Department, in charge of a male teacher.
Miss Darroch, Principal of Vasanta School, advises us that the time is now most opportune for putting this ideal into practice. Otherwise eight or nine excellent Proficiency pupils will be drafted into other Secondary Schools, and lost to Vasanta, at the end of this year.
There is ample accommodation in the school buildings as they now stand, and the fees of such pupils would go towards defraying expenses. As, however, the present financial position does not allow for expenditure, and the salaries of our teachers must be assured, we cannot carry on without the support of every member who is interested in the success of the school.
We shall deeply appreciate any contribution sent to us for this important work.
With heartiest good wishes,
Yours sincerely,
Kathleen Crawford.
Contributions to be sent to:
Mrs. W. Crawford,
11 Belvedere Street, Epsom, Auckland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1933
Vasanta Garden School
By Miss S. E. GIFFORD, M.A.
Some few who visited Auckland in March to hear Mr. Krishnamurti were kindly afforded the opportunity of seeing Vasanta School in working order before it broke up for the short Easter holiday. This school is certainly a model of the new type, and it was a pleasure and an inspiration to see how happy and interested the children were. The senior pupils were busily illustrating their Nature Study note books, each working out the description and making the drawings according to the observation of the plant gathered and lying on the desk. The general enjoyment in the pursuit was well in evidence, and one pupil at least was so absorbed as to show no anxiety to be dismissed and exchange holiday good-byes with the Principal. Studies of different countries had been made by the pupils' own investigation; records of these studies were to be seen on the walls in a series of maps, illustrating various points which had been discussed and lectured upon by members of the class. India had evidently lately been a subject of examination. A reference library at one end of the room seemed to be made good use of.
The junior pupils had just finished their work for the day. as we came among them. But a great variety of scenes depicted in coloured chalks on the blackboards around the walls evidenced a keen and living interest in the poems and stories read—productions often more telling than the conventionalised art of the adult. From the junior room we passed on to the Assembly Hall, where the pupils were finally summoned to practise the country dances which had just been introduced. There was no manner of doubt about the participants' pleasure in the graceful, rhythmic movements. During the course of the day the Assembly Hall is now being used for the Matriculation classes. The post primary course was an innovation in the School, beginning with this year, and provides a continuity of aim and outlook for those who wish to make further studies. The new addition, in charge of a yoi;ng master with an earnest appreciation of the requirements of the New Age, is proving a great success. This section of the School, too, has its appropriate reference library and pictorial adornment to the wails.
Every kind of historical tale and event, especially those dealing with more modern times, are sought out and brought to the master to lie attached in their appropriate place. A general interest in art was evidenced in linotype designs and etchings in various degrees of progress lying on a table near by. Science is not to be neglected either, as is seen by the beginnings of a laboratory being set up in roomy quarters beneath the hall itself. Happy the pupils who may find their way to such a new model school and pass through it, free to develop their own tendencies under wise guidance, without the demand for undue conformity and standardisation, and without those repressions, either, which have stunted the personalities and lessened the moral energy of so many of the older generation. Surely we have in Vasanta Garden School one aspect of the preparation for the coming age of leisure, when the creative activity of the individual shall take the place of the industrial drudgery which has absorbed till now too much of man's vital energy.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb-April 1934
Some few who visited Auckland in March to hear Mr. Krishnamurti were kindly afforded the opportunity of seeing Vasanta School in working order before it broke up for the short Easter holiday. This school is certainly a model of the new type, and it was a pleasure and an inspiration to see how happy and interested the children were. The senior pupils were busily illustrating their Nature Study note books, each working out the description and making the drawings according to the observation of the plant gathered and lying on the desk. The general enjoyment in the pursuit was well in evidence, and one pupil at least was so absorbed as to show no anxiety to be dismissed and exchange holiday good-byes with the Principal. Studies of different countries had been made by the pupils' own investigation; records of these studies were to be seen on the walls in a series of maps, illustrating various points which had been discussed and lectured upon by members of the class. India had evidently lately been a subject of examination. A reference library at one end of the room seemed to be made good use of.
The junior pupils had just finished their work for the day. as we came among them. But a great variety of scenes depicted in coloured chalks on the blackboards around the walls evidenced a keen and living interest in the poems and stories read—productions often more telling than the conventionalised art of the adult. From the junior room we passed on to the Assembly Hall, where the pupils were finally summoned to practise the country dances which had just been introduced. There was no manner of doubt about the participants' pleasure in the graceful, rhythmic movements. During the course of the day the Assembly Hall is now being used for the Matriculation classes. The post primary course was an innovation in the School, beginning with this year, and provides a continuity of aim and outlook for those who wish to make further studies. The new addition, in charge of a yoi;ng master with an earnest appreciation of the requirements of the New Age, is proving a great success. This section of the School, too, has its appropriate reference library and pictorial adornment to the wails.
Every kind of historical tale and event, especially those dealing with more modern times, are sought out and brought to the master to lie attached in their appropriate place. A general interest in art was evidenced in linotype designs and etchings in various degrees of progress lying on a table near by. Science is not to be neglected either, as is seen by the beginnings of a laboratory being set up in roomy quarters beneath the hall itself. Happy the pupils who may find their way to such a new model school and pass through it, free to develop their own tendencies under wise guidance, without the demand for undue conformity and standardisation, and without those repressions, either, which have stunted the personalities and lessened the moral energy of so many of the older generation. Surely we have in Vasanta Garden School one aspect of the preparation for the coming age of leisure, when the creative activity of the individual shall take the place of the industrial drudgery which has absorbed till now too much of man's vital energy.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb-April 1934
Inspectors Report
REPORT BY THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS.
Organisation is sound and management capable. Instruction is based upon the principle of individual development, a modified Dalton plan being used
by senior pupils. Every endeavour is made to lay the foundations for a sane and well-equipped adulthood, while cultivating individual interests to the
full. As is to be expected, the standard of attainment varies considerably from fair to very good. Pleasing features are appreciation in literature and oral response, and interest in geography and history. Two open-air class-rooms, and a large room used for general instruction purposes, afford sufficient and suitable accommodation. The general efficiency and the tone are good.
(Sgd.) B. N. T. Blake, M.A., 22nd June, 1934.
Inspector.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Oct to Dec 1934
Organisation is sound and management capable. Instruction is based upon the principle of individual development, a modified Dalton plan being used
by senior pupils. Every endeavour is made to lay the foundations for a sane and well-equipped adulthood, while cultivating individual interests to the
full. As is to be expected, the standard of attainment varies considerably from fair to very good. Pleasing features are appreciation in literature and oral response, and interest in geography and history. Two open-air class-rooms, and a large room used for general instruction purposes, afford sufficient and suitable accommodation. The general efficiency and the tone are good.
(Sgd.) B. N. T. Blake, M.A., 22nd June, 1934.
Inspector.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Oct to Dec 1934
Vasanta Garden School
VASANTA GARDEN SCHOOL
72 Williamson Street, Epsom, Auckland.
By An Observer.
During Easter the teachers of Vasanta Garden School carried out a most interesting experiment. They took fifteen of the girls and boys camping. The boys were under canvas, while the girls were housed in a hall.
In spite of the weather everyone had a most enjoyable and novel experience. Whangateau is a suitable spot for a camp of this kind— hardy mountain climbs, a lovely rock-bound shore, near by, and, best of all, a wide sweeping beach and a safe place for swimming and boating. The weather stopped us from the full enjoyment of these, but riotous indoor games sufficed and we wound up the camp with one glorious day on the ocean beach and the magic of a midnight supper round a camp-fire.
It is during the intimacies of camp life that an observer may discover all the more delicate touches of character-building which co-educational Vasanta Garden School offers to its children. The natural and friendly relationships between the growing girls and boys; their mutual trust and courtesy both among themselves and to their teachers, was a proof that the child is "a fragment of the morn, a piece of spring."
Help From Oamaru.
The young people of Oamaru Lodge have decided that their chief work for this year will be to help Vasanta School. They intend to work to that end by organising a sale of work to be held about the middle of the year. 30
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1935
72 Williamson Street, Epsom, Auckland.
By An Observer.
During Easter the teachers of Vasanta Garden School carried out a most interesting experiment. They took fifteen of the girls and boys camping. The boys were under canvas, while the girls were housed in a hall.
In spite of the weather everyone had a most enjoyable and novel experience. Whangateau is a suitable spot for a camp of this kind— hardy mountain climbs, a lovely rock-bound shore, near by, and, best of all, a wide sweeping beach and a safe place for swimming and boating. The weather stopped us from the full enjoyment of these, but riotous indoor games sufficed and we wound up the camp with one glorious day on the ocean beach and the magic of a midnight supper round a camp-fire.
It is during the intimacies of camp life that an observer may discover all the more delicate touches of character-building which co-educational Vasanta Garden School offers to its children. The natural and friendly relationships between the growing girls and boys; their mutual trust and courtesy both among themselves and to their teachers, was a proof that the child is "a fragment of the morn, a piece of spring."
Help From Oamaru.
The young people of Oamaru Lodge have decided that their chief work for this year will be to help Vasanta School. They intend to work to that end by organising a sale of work to be held about the middle of the year. 30
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine May 1935
Vasanta Garden School
Inspector's Report, 26th June, 1936.
The buildings and equipment are very good. Accommodation is sufficient. The pupils are well supplied with reading matter. Provision is made to give instruction in cookery, woodwork and science. The general discipline is good and the tone pleasing. The teaching is based on the Dalton Plan, and although the attainments vary, each pupil as a rule is working to his capacity. The teaching is effective and the general management good.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine July 1936
The buildings and equipment are very good. Accommodation is sufficient. The pupils are well supplied with reading matter. Provision is made to give instruction in cookery, woodwork and science. The general discipline is good and the tone pleasing. The teaching is based on the Dalton Plan, and although the attainments vary, each pupil as a rule is working to his capacity. The teaching is effective and the general management good.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine July 1936
Vasanta Garden School
The general consensus of opinion concerning modern educational methods is that they are perhaps right for the non-academic pupils, but that they unfit children to cope with ordinary school subjects in the acknowledged style. Last December Patricia Hastings, daughter of Drs. Violet and J. Hastings, and Sirius Crawford, son of Vasanta Garden School General Secretary, passed the Matriculation Examination, both with creditable marks, after having spent their entire school life at Vasanta Garden School. We congratulate Patricia and Sirius on their success, and thank them for helping to convince a sceptical public of the practical value of allowing children the freedom and the environment to determine their own life course untrammelled by coercive methods. We wish them that they would wish for themselves, and remind them of the words of George Herbert:-- ". . . . Who aimeth at the sky Shoots higher much than lie that means a tree."
Bertha H. Darroch.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb 1938
Bertha H. Darroch.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Feb 1938
Vasanta Garden School
Extract from Miss Darroch's Annual Report, December, 1938.
The past year at Vasanta School has been a delightful, happy and helpful one for all concerned—children, parents, teachers and friends having all shared and contributed towards the goodwill and friendliness that pervades the Vasanta section of our Theosophical activities.
We have a roll number that circles round fifty, and the ages of the pupils range from 3 to 15 years. The Kindergarten 'wee ones' are mothered by a charming young teacher, Miss Phyllis Ward, while in the Lower Primary School we are most fortunate to have the services of Miss W. E. Miller, an efficient and experienced teacher.
A noteworthy feature of the work this year has been conducted by Miss Millicent Ward, our drill (Bagot-Stack), Greek and mime mistress. Several public demonstrations have been given by our pupils. Keen interest has been taken in all our sports activities, chief of which are swimming, tennis, cricket, net ball and baseball. At our sports afternoon, held at the end of the swimming season, three out of every four of the pupils received swimming certificates. Next year we hope to have every child a swimmer.
The Arts and Crafts have received special attention, and we find our children enjoy and excel in this work. The girls, too, are keen on their cookery lessons.
Choral Speaking and Play-writing have been favourite side-lines this year. Of no little importance is the work done in our Teacher-Parent Friendly Club, teachers and parents meeting often to discuss their common interest—the child.
March, 1939: Miss Darroch adds--
At the end of last year the parents of Form II. (Standard 6) requested me to reopen a secondary department, as they wished their children to continue along the same educational lines.
The Trust Board secured the services of Miss Patricia Hastings, a former pupil, who had matriculated from Vasanta and is now attending university. She has nine senior pupils, accommodated in well-equipped, sunny rooms overlooking the grounds.
Since opening school Vasanta children have enjoyed many extra hours each week in the open air at seasonable sports—swimming, cricket and tennis being the most popular. They have truly excelled at swimming, 72% having gained distance certificates.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan-March 1939
The past year at Vasanta School has been a delightful, happy and helpful one for all concerned—children, parents, teachers and friends having all shared and contributed towards the goodwill and friendliness that pervades the Vasanta section of our Theosophical activities.
We have a roll number that circles round fifty, and the ages of the pupils range from 3 to 15 years. The Kindergarten 'wee ones' are mothered by a charming young teacher, Miss Phyllis Ward, while in the Lower Primary School we are most fortunate to have the services of Miss W. E. Miller, an efficient and experienced teacher.
A noteworthy feature of the work this year has been conducted by Miss Millicent Ward, our drill (Bagot-Stack), Greek and mime mistress. Several public demonstrations have been given by our pupils. Keen interest has been taken in all our sports activities, chief of which are swimming, tennis, cricket, net ball and baseball. At our sports afternoon, held at the end of the swimming season, three out of every four of the pupils received swimming certificates. Next year we hope to have every child a swimmer.
The Arts and Crafts have received special attention, and we find our children enjoy and excel in this work. The girls, too, are keen on their cookery lessons.
Choral Speaking and Play-writing have been favourite side-lines this year. Of no little importance is the work done in our Teacher-Parent Friendly Club, teachers and parents meeting often to discuss their common interest—the child.
March, 1939: Miss Darroch adds--
At the end of last year the parents of Form II. (Standard 6) requested me to reopen a secondary department, as they wished their children to continue along the same educational lines.
The Trust Board secured the services of Miss Patricia Hastings, a former pupil, who had matriculated from Vasanta and is now attending university. She has nine senior pupils, accommodated in well-equipped, sunny rooms overlooking the grounds.
Since opening school Vasanta children have enjoyed many extra hours each week in the open air at seasonable sports—swimming, cricket and tennis being the most popular. They have truly excelled at swimming, 72% having gained distance certificates.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan-March 1939
Vasanta Garden School
Skipping over the pre-war period, we come to Vasanta Garden School in 1920, when it was a boarding school. Those were the Red-letter days of the Order, when no less than 60 graced the Circle, enthusiasm was at peak point and the redoubtable J.R.T. never failed to inspire as Leader. We had to take a church hall in the vicinity, our numbers were so large. I shall never forget those days, nor will all of the young people all their lives, for the very Presence of the King was often in very truth in the midst of those gatherings. Miss Gladys Peake must not be forgotten, -she was wonderful with the small Pages.
The Round Table magazine “The Torch” December 1939
The Round Table magazine “The Torch” December 1939
Vasanta Garden School
Inspector's Report
There is a very happy atmosphere about this school. The pupils are courteous, and are taught to be self-reliant in the prosecution of their studies. Oral response is very good. Such subjects as history and geography are dealt with on a discussion plan, and a lively and intelligent interest is displayed.
The health of the children is very good— this in part at least being due to the open-air classrooms. Cultural subjects are taken by well-qualified instructresses, while the more formal school studies are, in the upper classes, treated along Dalton lines. The work seen was everywhere of good quality.
A very fine tone is in evidence. The grounds are spacious and beautifully laid out, while all seasonal sporting activities are adequately catered for.
John C. Hall, M.A.,
Inspector.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Oct 1940
There is a very happy atmosphere about this school. The pupils are courteous, and are taught to be self-reliant in the prosecution of their studies. Oral response is very good. Such subjects as history and geography are dealt with on a discussion plan, and a lively and intelligent interest is displayed.
The health of the children is very good— this in part at least being due to the open-air classrooms. Cultural subjects are taken by well-qualified instructresses, while the more formal school studies are, in the upper classes, treated along Dalton lines. The work seen was everywhere of good quality.
A very fine tone is in evidence. The grounds are spacious and beautifully laid out, while all seasonal sporting activities are adequately catered for.
John C. Hall, M.A.,
Inspector.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Oct 1940
Vasanta Garden School
Early this year it became obvious that Vasanta Garden School would not be able to continue. The Principal resigned through illness and could not be replaced. It was then decided to close the School in May after 40 years of work.
According to its Constitution the assets of the Theosophical Educational Trust pass to the New Zealand Section. The Educational Trust Board wished to hand over the properties and other assets after the end of its financial year. 31st October, and as it had been suggested that the transfer might be made directly to the Theosophical Properties Trust Board instead of first to the Section and then to the Properties Trust Board, the General Secretary circularised all members of the Section Executive Committee and gained their approval. The transfer is now being effected by the Section Solicitor, Mr J. S. Longland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan – April 1960
According to its Constitution the assets of the Theosophical Educational Trust pass to the New Zealand Section. The Educational Trust Board wished to hand over the properties and other assets after the end of its financial year. 31st October, and as it had been suggested that the transfer might be made directly to the Theosophical Properties Trust Board instead of first to the Section and then to the Properties Trust Board, the General Secretary circularised all members of the Section Executive Committee and gained their approval. The transfer is now being effected by the Section Solicitor, Mr J. S. Longland.
From the ‘Theosophy in New Zealand’ magazine Jan – April 1960