Nestled between Wellington’s south coast and the city center, Ridgway School, now officially Te Kura o Tawatawa – Ridgway School, has been a cornerstone of the community since 1929. Imagine children racing around the large playing field, their laughter echoing against the backdrop of a 400m bike track. Ridgway School first opened its doors with just 87 pupils. Now, nearly a century later, over 200 students from Year 1 to Year 8 fill the classrooms. Many of these students walk to school from nearby suburbs like Mornington, Vogeltown, Brooklyn, and Kingston. Ridgway School boasts a unique history, documented in “Ridgway School – The Golden Years.” This book details the school’s growth, including the addition of a library, an assembly area, playing fields, and even a swimming pool. It also tells of challenges faced, like the polio epidemics that forced closures in 1925, 1936, and 1947. The impact of World War II is also woven into the narrative, with stories of the 40 past students who served, three of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. The school even purchased rations for war emergency precautions. In 2004, Ridgway School celebrated its 75th Jubilee. A commemorative booklet, “Then and Now,” captures the school’s evolution, highlighting the changing buildings, ethnic diversity, educational philosophies, and curriculum. The booklet includes student quotes that provide a glimpse into the past, likely resonating with many adults who attended Ridgway School themselves. Ridgway School isn’t just about the past. In 2019, it made history by opening Wellington’s first French-English bilingual class. As a Positive Behaviour for Learning School, Ridgway School emphasizes positive interactions between children of all ages and between adults and children. It also champions environmental sustainability as an Enviroschool and collaborates with neighboring schools as a founding member of the Capital City Kāhui Ako. Ridgway School’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals continues to shape young minds in Wellington.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to