THE SCHOOL SYLLABUS

Taranaki Daily News, 10 December 1926, Page 7

THE SCHOOL SYLLABUS

COMMITTEE OF INQUIRY. VIEWS OF THE MINISTER. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, Last Night. Some of the problems of primary education which he- considers require careful attention, were outlined by the Min ister of Education when addressing the inaugural meeting of the committee appointed to inquire, into and report upon the present school syllabus. He stressed the importance and difficulty of the task the committee was confronted with, and assured the members that their findings would be awaited with interest, not only by the Government and the department but also by the parents. The Minister thought it would bs generally admitted that the time was ripe for the revision of the primary school syllabus. The need was recognised, not only by members of the teaching profession but by those who gave any attention or thought to the education of the young people. Anything that could be done to provide a syllabus laying the foundation for an education suitable, not only for the higher attainments but also bearing in mind the most important fact that 40 per cent, of the pupils did not go past the primary schools, would be very valuable. The order of reference on which tho committee will work provides generally for the preparation of a report on the whole of the primary school syllabus, with particular reference to its suitability to present day needs and the recommendation of such alterations as appear necessary to secure better articulation of the work of the secondary and technical schools. In the second place the committee will inquire into the present system of homework as to: (a) whether it be abolished? (b) whether it be curtailed? (e) whether it be retained as at present ? The committee will also inquire into any other matter affecting the primary State school system.