TEACHERS’ INSTITUTE.

Gisborne Times, Volume VIII, Issue 561, 3 November 1902, Page 2

TEACHERS’ INSTITUTE.

By Telegraph—Press Association, : Timaru, last night. The South Canterbury branch o Teachers’ Institute yesterday discusset the proposed new regulations for examina tion and classification of teachers. It was resolved at the outset to the effect thai there was no dissatisfaction with the pre. sent system, which gives as much satisfac. tion as could be expected from any schemt for classification of so many teachers. Proceeding to details objection was made to the reduction of the latter grades, five to three, and four was suggested instead, and the values indicated. Approval was expressed of higher value being attached to teaching ability, but objection was made to the limitation of the highest class to those able to manage a school over 150, on the grounds that the highest teaching I skill was really required in single-handed schools, say 35 to 40. It was contended that if the syllabus of examination were adopted, teachers in small districts like -South Canterbury would be unable to prepare science subjects (except improperly from books), unless further provision were made to enable them to attend training schools or University. The meeting stroDgly protested against the provision of clause 42, providing for lowering the classification once gained. It was agreed to withhold orders given for the provident fund pending a sitting of the Conneil in January, and the question suggested byOtago to be put to candidates was adopted, whether they are in favor of a superannuation scheme, and making its provisions at least as liberal as those of the railways and police schemes.