SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23499, 13 May 1938, Page 10

SECONDARY SCHOOLS

DECISIONS OF CONFERENCE APPOINTMENTS BOARD WANTED VARIOUS REFORMS SUGGESTED (Per United Press Association) WELLINGTON, May 12. After an animated debate the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Association resolved at its annual conference to-day that “ This association urge the establishment of a National Appointments Board and that a conference consisting of representatives of the Education Department, principals and boards of governors and assistants should be set up to consider the best means of giving effect to this reform.” Other motions were carried and remits adopted as follows: — “ That any pupil who has obtained a higher leaving certificate should in the opinion of this association be qualified to matriculate.”

“That in view of the diversified curricula in our secondary schools, which was not foreseen when the present staffing schedules were drawn up, and, considering the importance of the full participation of teachers in extra school activities, the staffing schedules should be modified to allow one assistant to 25 pupils.” “ That, when amalgamation is being considered, the department be asked to consider the advisability of limiting schools to between 500 and 600 pupils.” “ That the department be asked to make a per capita grant to libraries.” “ That this association considers that amalgamation of the two postprimary teachers’ associations would be in the best interests of all members.”

“ That all salary cuts be restored.”

“ That, in view of the importance of physical education and welfare, the Minister be asked lo make provision for the appointment of fulltime physical educators.”

Officers were elected as follows: — President, Mr J. Hutton; vice-presi-dent, Mr H. A. Heron; executive — Miss Stewart, Messrs W. A. Armour, E. N. Hogben, J. N. Millard. G. W. Morice, H. Henderson and E. W. Espiner; secretary and treasurer, Mr A. H. Thom.