TEACHING NEEDS

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29901, 15 August 1962, Page 24

TEACHING NEEDS

Institute's Pamphlet "Revaluation," a pamphlet on the needs of the teaching profession, has been sent to 10.000 members of the New Zealand Educational Institute as a first step in a campaign to inform the public of the most pressing problems in education. The institute believes its members should be aware of these so that discussion can be constructive. The Dominion president <Mr W. R. Familion) says he believes New Zealand should move steadily toward certain essential' goals—higher entrance qualifications, and longer training for teach* ers, smaller classes* and adequate facilities. • Revaluation of education if vital to preserve standards, the pamphlet says. It irtges that the Government should raise entry standards for teachers to the level of those for other professions; increase the training period by one year from 19M and by two years as soon after that as possible; reduce the size of classes: provide adequate teaching materials and facilities: and provide schools with sufficient clerical and other assistants so that teachers can teach. It is suggested that teachers should interest the public in these needs and that parent-teacher associations, school committees and community groups should consider how much depends on the quality of teaching service. Teachers themselves should be meticulous in their professional responsibilities.