STAFF FOR SCHOOLS

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31614, 27 February 1968, Page 22

STAFF FOR SCHOOLS

Position “Very Satisfactory”

Primary schools in the Canterbury education district opened this year with a very satisfactory staffing position; possibly the best in recent years, the Education Board was told at its last meeting, A deliberate build-up of firstyear teachers to cushion the effects of tbree-year training next year, when no students will come out of the Teachers’ College.

An increased number of married women returning to the service. Even though some wanted only jobs close to home, the gain was considerable. Fewer young teachers leaving the service than in recent times.

“The total effect is that more schools should enjoy stability of staffing than has previously been the case," said the report to the board. Both the ratio of teachers to pupils and size of classes have been improved. In secondary departments of district high schools all positions have been filled and any relieving teachers required were reasonably well qualified, the report said. Of 550 applications for primary teacher training, 361 were accepted. Some rejected have returned to school for better qualifications.