PROBATIONER TEACHERS

Greymouth Evening Star, 7 November 1931, Page 5

PROBATIONER TEACHERS

NO POSITIONS AVAILABLE. [special to “stab.”] AUCKLAND, November 6. The opinion that the Department should have given more warning of the drastic action, was expressed by Mr Burns, Chairman of the Auckland Education Board, when he was advised of the Minister’s decision closing the door on probationer teachers. “We recognise the need for improvement in the employment position, but it is regrettable such short notice has been given.”

With 200 teachers out of permanent positions, the Board is faced with a serious problem. However, the Department’s action must be very discouraging to many secondary school pupils who have worked during the year in order to take up teaching. It is a tragedy for those who were expecting to enter the profession,” said Mr H. J. D. Mahon, headmaster of Auckland Grammar School. “Pupils have been preparing all the year for teaching work and they now suddenly find the door is closed. It will be very difficult for them to find other work as so many avenues of employment seem to be closing.”

Miss E. M. Johnston, headmistress i Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, had already advised pupils who were intending to become teachers that some doubt existed regarding their employment. Miss Johnston did this without definite advice, but acting upon indications. “It is most unfair that the girls of 1931 should be deprived of the opportunity to become teachers.” said Miss Johnston. “No warning has been received and the girls have already been medically examined.”