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districts. At the end of the period the Inspectors assembled in Wellington and reported unanimously that they found the standard of grading to be practically uniform. Apparent divergencies from, uniformity in appraisement were found to be quite justified, and were explainable through varying local conditions. The result of this investigation appears to be a complete vindication of the system of grading of teachers, and. should dispose once and for all with the supposition that because Inspectors graded, teachers in nine different districts it was impossible to secure practical uniformity. The appointment of teachers based on their efficiency as shown in their grading continues to receive practically the universal support of teachers. There have been some objections from School Committees because they do not have a shari? in the appointments, but it ought to be recognized that if there is to be a Dominion system of appointment and promotion of teachers on merit alone and without any barriers of district or locality there must be a Dominion system of grading. STAFFS AND SALARIES OF TEACHERS. Owing to numerous complaints that there were too many changes in the staffs of schools, to the detriment of the children's education, the scale of staffs and salaries, as far as assistants are concerned, has been recast so that instead of there being seven grades of assistants there are now only three. This should considerably reduce the number of changes of staffs. It should be recognized, however, that it was only natural that there should be an unusual number of transfers of teachers in the first year or two after the adoption of a Dominion system of appointment on grading. For the first time the whole of New Zealand was thrown open for the promotion of teachers on their merits; consequently many teachers who, under the more parochial system that had largely existed previously, were unable to secure promotion outside their own district are now able to do so. After this first general transfer it is fairly clear that the number of changes will be smaller, and the reduction of grades of assistants from seven to three will further lead to a greater stability of staffs. CONFERENCES. A number of conferences was held during the year covering a wide range of subjects and representing very many interests. Apart altogether from the definite resolutions passed or the reforms resulting from these conferences, undoubted benefit has been received through the free discussion between various representative educational bodies and the officers of the Department. A very large number of misapprehensions and difficulties has been either cleared up or better understood, with the result that there is a sound and substantial basis for future co-operation and mutual goodwill. With the very numerous and widely .scattered local educational authorities, and the wide responsibilities which the Government has undertaken, in connection with education, nothing but good can result from a round-the-table discussion with those who are associated in the administration of education. SCHOOL COMMITTEE ALLOWANCES. Though the allowances to School Committees have been very largely increased in recent years, a further additional grant of £3,000 was this year placed at the disposal of the Education Boards to distribute to the School Committees where it was deemed most necessary. It should be recognized that newly-built schools with hot-water heating arrangements should, not require the same incidental allowances as the older type of school. In the new schools there is a very large saving in the cost of fuel, in labour, and in cleaning. WELFARE OF THE BLIND. A departmental investigation was made into the welfare of the blind, of the Dominion, and a very valuable and comprehensive report was submitted. The recommendations of the Committee are being carried into effect, and it is hoped that shortly the whole question will be placed in a highly satisfactory position.

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