CONFERENCE OF SCHOOL INSPECTORS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2085, 8 February 1894, Page 24

CONFERENCE OF SCHOOL INSPECTORS.

Wellington, February 7.

At the School Inspectors' Conference it was decided, after a long discussion, that the science syllabus as at present issued by the department remain in operation; that while the teaching of science should, as far as possible, be experimental and illustrative, it would be,,an advantage, for revisal and for securing sufficient supervision of the matters taught, to have a suitable set of simple textbooks in the bands of pupils. It was decided that comprehension __ of language of the reading lessons is of sufficient importance in itself to justify a separate judgment as "excellent* by inspectors in every examination summary, and that such proved estimate might conveniently occupy the position which the subject matter of reading lessons has hitherto occupied, and it should refer to all standard classes.

With regard to the examination of pupil teachers, the conference decided that there should be one pupil teacher system for the whole colony, and one annual examination. The following resolution was passed: — " That in the opinion of the conference the opening of evening continuation schools in the larger towns will supply a much felt want." A recommendation was made to the senate of the university urging the propriety of adding to their course of instruction subjects which will induce the various university college councils to establish lectureships on education. It was decided that some steps should be taken for the establishment of a central department of science and art, to encourage and foster the efficient treatment of science in primary schools and for the furtherance of technical education.

A committee was appointed to prepare a report of the proceedings of the conference and forward it to the Minister for Education.

It was decided to make a presentation of a set of gold links and studs to the secretary (Mr Hill), in acknowledgment of his services. The conference closed with a hearty vote of thanks to the Inspector-general of Schools for the able manner in which he had directed the deliberations of the conference.