School of Practical Philiosophy

In 1913, a grand building arose on Aro Street in Wellington’s Aro Valley. This building, the William Booth Memorial Training College, now houses the School of Practical Philosophy and Meditation. The School of Practical Philosophy occupies a building steeped in history. It’s a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, designed by the architects Stanley W Fearn and Austen Quick. Their design was so impressive it won a gold medal from the New Zealand Institute of Architects in 1927. Originally, this building served as a training college for the Salvation Army. It was named in honor of William Booth, one of the founders of the Salvation Army. The official opening on April 2, 1914, was a grand affair. The Prime Minister, the Minister of Customs, and other prominent figures attended. The ceremony was filled with speeches praising William Booth and the Salvation Army’s dedication to helping those in need. Construction costs reached £13,000, a substantial sum in those days. This was part of a larger £40,000 investment by the Salvation Army in various building projects. The training college remained the heart of Salvation Army training in Wellington until 1982. Then, the operations shifted to Lower Hutt. Even during tough times, like the Great Depression in 1933, the college’s doors briefly closed due to financial constraints. The School of Practical Philosophy found its home in this historic building. Now, it continues a tradition of learning and growth, albeit with a different focus. The Wellington City District Plan recognizes the building’s heritage value. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of architecture and its ability to adapt to changing times. The School of Practical Philosophy at the William Booth Memorial Training College offers a unique blend of history and contemporary thought. It’s a place where the echoes of the past resonate with the pursuit of wisdom in the present.