CHANGES OF TEACHERS

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 30 March 1928, Page 9

CHANGES OF TEACHERS

MORE FREQUENT THAN ANTICIPATED. CONFERENCE TO CONSIDER PROBLEM. [BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] WELLINGTON, March 30. A deputation waited on the Hon. R. A. Wright, Minister of Education, and urged that a conference of educational bodies should be held to discuss the problem of substitute teachers and the constant changes which occurred in teaching staffs. The speakers laid stress on the injustice done to children by the constant changes of touchers which kept the pupils back and prevented team spirit among the teachers. Figures were quoted in support. The Minister admitted that there was no argument about the bad results of constant changes, but he pointed out that, they could not prevent retirements and sickness. He could not go to Cabinet- without knowing what it would cost to ensure permanence.

Mr. T. D. Strong, director of education, said that the principal complaint -regarded substitute teachers, and it was a fact that changes had been more frequent than the department had anticipated and it looked as if the substitutes should he made to remain for a year, as with probationers. Every year 6QO vacancies occurred by death, retirement o.r marriage, and their places had to be filled. The department was endeavouring to grapple with the retardiation of children, which was due to many causes.

The Minister agreed to arrange a conference as requested.