ECONOMY IN EDUCATION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21114, 23 February 1932, Page 13

ECONOMY IN EDUCATION.

Sir,—ln spite'of the number of suggestions concerning - economy in the Education Department, no one yet seems to have hit upon the scheme which is obviously the most suitable, namely, reduction in the inspectoral staffs. School inspectors are useful advisers to young and inexperienced teachers in the country districts, but city schools can readily and easily maintain their efficiency without visits from inspectors. Ihe headmasters of high-grade schools arc all tried and trusty men, who are quite capable of doing all that inspectors can do. Not only do these headmasters organise and manage their schools to the benefit of their pupils, but they also teach young teachers how to teach, and help, guide and advise the elder assistants. Many thousands of pounds a year could bo saved by dispensing with the services of those inspectors who arc not required for countiy work. In other words, the department should immediately reduce the staff of each inspectorate and cause those who remain on the staff to confine their attention to schools which need their help and advice, certainly not the city schools. Close Observer.