Richmond resident Arnold Clark has written a book, ‘Into the 21st Century’, as a tribute to Wakefield School’s upcoming 175th birthday celebrations next month.
Arnold has spent the last 20 months voluntarily researching, interviewing, writing and compiling the last 25 years of the school’s history.
“I wanted to carry on from Marion Stringer’s book and record the next 25 years of history,” says Arnold.
“Wakefield School is very special and significant. It is the oldest school in New Zealand – being built in 1843 – just three years after the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.”
A member of the Waimea Historical Society, and editor of past newsletter Village News, Arnold spent many hours of many days collecting his information.
“I was gobsmacked by the number of activities and programmes that the school does, and has done, that is what I found the most interesting.
“In my opinion, it is up there with some of the best country schools in New Zealand.”
Amanda Ledger designed the front cover of the book and Jenie and Lindsay Bradley from Wakefield Print spent hours designing the format and layout. “It has been a labour of love,” says Arnold.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole process. It is a very personal compilation.” Arnold’s book ‘Into the 21st Century’ will be launched on Friday, November 9, and copies can be purchased for $25 during the weekend’s celebrations, or alternatively from the Wakefield School office after the birthday celebrations. For more information call Arnold Clark on 5447834.