XXIII

Restoration, and Revolution, besides answering about one-third or one-fourth of fifty promiscuous questions—the result being above the usual average.

The Geography comprised a fair general knowledge of the subject; and throughout the school, even to the youngest classes, a remarkably good knowledge of the Geography of New Zealand. The subject is taught both orally and with books, and greatly interests the children. Several Maps were drawn from memory, but they rather showed a general knowledge of the “lie” of the countries than any accuracy of outline.

The highest number of marks in History and Geography was obtained by Mary Stout.

English Grammar has been carefully taught to the senior classes. The Parsing is more rational and less mechanical than in most schools.

English Composition does not appear to have been systematically taught, but was tested in connection with the written exercises in Bible Knowledge and English History.

The school is decidedly the best in Lyttelton of those aided by the Board. It cannot rank high among the “Superior Schools,” but it has a higher standard of efficiency and attainment than the “Ordinary Schools.”

It has been faithfully and successfully conducted for the past three years by Mr. Ross and a change of assistants.

Report on the Gray-Cross School, visited Sept. 5. Present, 10. The school is situated about a mile and a-quarter north of Weeden’s Hotel, on a junction road called the Courtney Road, leading from the South Road to the West Coast Road.

It is conducted by a former master of the Lincoln School, in a sod-hut, about 21 by 10, with walls about six feet high, and a thatched roof. There is no fireplace, chimney, or other means of warming and airing the room. These defects were noticeable on account of the dampness of the walls, and the unpleasant closeness of one end of the room. It is much too narrow, and otherwise unfit for a school-room.

The country round is dotted with farms and homesteads, and I should hence infer that, with a proper School-room and a low rate of fees, an efficient teacher would secure a good attendance. The children pay 1s. a week.

There are forms enough to seat the children, and one ill-contrived... desk for six.

There is a want of proper books and apparatus.

Some very intelligent children here showed that, although they had been without a school, their education had not been neglected.

All that has at present been done towards the establishment of a school is the result of the voluntary effort of a few residents, to provide at least a temporary school for their children. I am informed that one gentleman has offered an acre of land for a site, and a contribution of £20, towards the erection of a school.

Of the Ordinary Schools examined—One (the Okain’s Bay School), is highly commendable as to the result of the examination; Eight are satisfactory; Four, moderate, and One (the Akaroa School), unsatisfactory.

List of Schools Examined.

Papanui Wesleyan ... August 30 ... Present, 30 ... Improved.

Avonside School ... Sept. 2 ... Present, 45 ... Satisfactory.

Roman Catholic ... Sept. 3 ... Present, 75 ... Satisfactory.

Templeton ... Sept. 5 ... Present, 27 ... Moderate. The School-room might be cleaner, but at present is used for Sunday services, Drill-shed, &c.

Organization imperfect at present; improvements were suggested as to management of the classes. The school requires more frequent visits of inspection.

Lincoln ... Sept. 6 ... Present, 29 ... Moderate.

Tai Tapu ... Sept. 6 ... Present, 31 ... Satisfactory.