EDUCATION.

Dunstan Times, Issue 439, 16 September 1870, Page 3

EDUCATION.

(To THE Editor op the Dhnstan Times. As some information regarding elementary education in this Province may be interest ing to many readers of your valuable paper I trust you will be so kind as to give publicity to my visit of Black’s National School on the Ist instant. In my inspection of the School, I did not enter into all the minutiae of an examination, my object being to gain a general idea of the character of the School, and the course of education pursued, Irequestod the teacher to call his various classes and put them through their ordinary exercises. The School comprises children of ages varying from six to thirteen years. The teacher first examined the third class, consisting of children from six to nine years. Their reading, I considered very good, and their spelling also was creditable. The first and second classes included boys and girls at from seven to thirteen years of age, their reading and spelling was really excellent, writing good, and some of the pupils displayed great aptitude for grammar, which branch of instruction they have only been

taught a short time. In arithmetic there wore only three pupils, who appeared to be acquainted with this branch of education. The teacher informed me that Geography has only been taught since he took charge of the School six weeks ago, bearing this fact in mind I must consider the progress the chi dreu have made to be satisfactory. My general impression of the School was a favorable one, the teacher, (Mr. H. Dixon) appears to be a person of considerable intelligence and skill in teaching. The behaviour of the children was perfectly respectful and orderly. The average attendance at the School tor the last six Weeks was twelve. The branches of educa' tion taught in the School are, reading’ writing, spelling, grammar, geography, and history. The children are of different denominations. The instruction books used in the School are those of the Scotch National Schools. In conclusion, Mr. Editor, I may express the opinion that, so long as the present system of apportioning aid to country schools is continued, Black’s School is entitled to the consideration of the Board of Education. Excuse the haste of this, being so busy by mission work, and believe me with much regard and esteem, Dear Sir, Faithful 1 }- yours in Christ our Lord, EMMANUEL ROYER, m.a. Catholic Pastor. St. Bathan’s, 10th September 1870.