195

In English Grammar and Composition, the range is from 187 to 35, the average, 90; the parsing is mostly too arbitrary, the candidates not stating the concord and regimen of the words. In English Composition, the neglect of punctuation was the most prevalent defect.

In History and Geography the range is from 157 to 19; the average being 90.

The candidates have passed the examination in the following order:-

1. Newton—1,501 marks.—Class III. Division 2.
2. Browne—1,233 ,, ,, 3.
3. Hoggan—1,060 ,, ,, 3.
4. Foster—902 ,, —Assistant’s Certificate.
5. Noding—803 ,, ,, ,,
6. Armstrong—777 ,,
7. Carter—723 ,,
8. Standidge—340 ,,

A table annexed shows the number of marks obtained in each subject.

Mr. Newton’s papers display a degree of proficiency sufficient to rank him in a higher class of certificate, except that his experience in school work has been limited to about two years as an under-master at the High School, and that he has not yet had the sole charge of a school. His certificate is the highest attained at this examination; it qualifies him for the probationary charge of a school having an average attendance of about 50. A higher certificate might be awarded after one year’s successful conduct of a school.

Messrs. Browne and Hoggan have each obtained certificates of the third division, qualifying them for masterships of small country schools.

Messrs. Foster and Noding are certified as competent for assistant-masterships; and Messrs. Armstrong and Carter might possibly attain a similar grade after from three to six months’ careful study and skilful training.

Mr. Standidge falls so far behind the required standard, that his attempt, and his recommendation by a minister of religion, are surprising.

It has been very satisfactory to find among the candidates gentlemen so well read and well informed as Messrs. Newton, Browne, and Hoggan; but, it is also a source of regret to find few, if any, having a sufficient amount of experience in school-keeping.

It appears that the stipend offered to schoolmasters in Canterbury is lower than in the neighbouring provinces and Australia, and that, therefore, there is not sufficient inducement for trained masters to come forward; an instance has just occurred of a trained master arriving by the Zealandia, but, for the reason above stated, going on to Nelson.

In conclusion, I would respectfully urge upon the Board the importance of requiring from candidates, as a condition of their examination, some previous training—at the least three months’ practice under a first-class master. I venture, without their permission, respectfully to indicate Mr. Cook and Mr. Gee, both of Christchurch, as either of them eminently qualified for the training of masters.

I would also respectfully suggest, for the consideration of the Board, the desirability of requiring the re-examination of masters in charge of schools but holding low certificates; the continuance in office of teachers scarcely eligible to the appointments which they hold is a serious drawback to the progress of education; but, a stimulus to improvement, on the part of the masters, would tend to materially increase the efficiency of their schools.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

J. P. RESTELL,
Inspector of Schools.