Continuing our look at the opening of Stonefield Infant School in April 1893. At the opening ceremony, the speeches continued, speaking of the nearby Stonefield School on Glasgow Road.
“We have added to the school subjects like military drill, musical drill and cookery. Free education has been granted to children up to the age of 14, which must have been a great boom for large families. We are fortunate of having a large compliment of staff, presided over by our esteemed friend Mr Ness whose unwearied and successful endeavours in education, I do not require to enlarge upon. It consists of 10 certified teachers, and one about to be appointed, four pupil teachers, and two more being added with a certified cooking mistress and drill instructor.”
Miss Lieshman was the infant mistress and had the fullest confidence of the School Board (and the affection of the children). Assisted by Miss Hastie and three student (pupil) teachers. The school was declared open to much applause.
Mr Ness spoke next, thanking Mr Craig for his opening remarks. Miss Lieshman, he said had seen many obstructions in teaching the infants at the main school and now having a dedicated premises, would be a blessing. Next, an interesting programme of songs by the choir conducted by Mr Welsh, a musical drill by girls, dumb bell exercises by the boys delighted onlookers.
To be continued tomorrow….
