1931

This year saw the Institute win the Rotary Shield for 8^th year running.

During winter the Institute further developed the ‘educational experiments’ begun in the previous year. Weekly classes in Art, Singing, First-Aid, Physical Training and Gymnastics were held, a French class was started, and a small dramatic society formed, which at the end of the year publicly performed a one-act play. A group of about 20 older boys met fortnightly to hear and discuss short talks on topics of interest.

The aesthetics of the building were also slowly improving: ‘The appearance of our concert hall has been much improved by a handsome present of stag’s heads and horns given to us by Mr Louis Cappel. They have proved a very appropriate decoration for the hall, but their introduction has emphasised the need for the replacement of the very old and shabby stage curtains and scenery.’