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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 75

The Twentieth Annual Report of the Educational Institute of Otago [1896-97]

Front Cover

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The Twentieth Annual Report of the Educational Institute of Otago, (Registered).

Dunedin Wise & Co., Printers and Stationers, 56 Princes Street. MDCCCXCVII.

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The Twentieth Annual Report of the Educational Institute of Otago. 1896-97.

Officers of the Institute.

President.

  • William McElrea Esq., B.E. (Balclutha).

Vice-Presidents.

  • Miss Anderson, (Central Otago)
  • Mr. J. A. Valentine, B.A., (Bruce-Chutha).
  • Mr. W. J. Moore, (Dunedin).

Secretary & Treasurer.

  • Mr. Walter Eudey.

Librarian.

  • Mr. James Jeffery.
Committee of Management. Elected by Branches.
Dunedin Mr. J. Garrow, B.A.
Central Otago Mr. F. S. Aldred,
Bruce-Clutha Mr. J. A. Valentine,

Elected by Institute.

  • Messrs W. Davidson, D. R. White M.A., W. G. Don,
  • A. M. Barnett, A. Tyndal.

Auditor.

  • Mr. J. E. Rutherford, B.A.
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Past Presidents of the Educational Institute of Otage.

  • 1878—Professor John Shand, M.A., L.L.D.
  • 1879—Sir Robert Stout, K.C M.G.
  • 1880—Professor James G. Black, M.A. D.Sc.
  • 1881—Proffssor D. McGregor, M.A., M.B.
  • 1882—J. B. Park, Esq.
  • 1883—Wm. Macdonald, Esq., M.A. L.L.D.
  • 1884—W. S. Fitzgerald, Esq.
  • 1885—William Milne, Esq., M.A.
  • 1886—James Reid, Esq.
  • 1887—Robert Peattie, Esq., M.A.
  • 1888—David White, Esq., M.A.
  • 1889—David A. McNicoll, Esq.
  • 1890—Alex. A. Wilson, M.A.
  • 1891—Charles Chilton, Esq, M.A. D.Sc.
  • 1892—James Rennie, Esq., B.A., S.C.
  • 1893—R. G. Whetter, Esq., M.A.
  • 1894—W. Davidson, Esq.
  • 1895—C. R. Smith, Esq.
  • 1896—James Jeffery, Esq.
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Twentieth Annual Report of the Educational Institute of Otago, 1896-97

In submitting the Twentieth Annual Report to the Teachers of Otago and others interested, the Committee of Management, in pursuance of the policy adopted in last year's Report, embody in it the resolutions passed at the last Annual Meeting together with any slight explanations that may be deemed necessary. The Committee of Management also think that a resumé of the most important work done by the Committee during the year will increase the value of the Report, as a permanent record of the work of the Institute.

1. That a Committee consisting of Headmasters and those present be formed to consider the question of Schoolbooks.

Moved by Mr. D. White. See page 10.

2. That the Secretary be requested to communicate with Members of both Houses urging them to support the Teachers' Court of Appeal Act Amendment Bill.

Moved by Mr. Davidson. Action was taken as directed; and Members stated their willingness to support the Amendments desired; but it was afterwards learned, from the Secretary of the New Zealand Institute, that the Premier considered that it was not advisable to amend the Act in the direction asked for. Members will see from the Report of the Council Meeting that the Question is being kept steadily in view.

3. That the text-books on History at present in use are unsuitable either as reading books or as history books.

Brought forward by the Central-Otago Branch. See page 10.

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4 That if members of the Education Board are to be elected by School committees, all committees should vote on the same day; but in the opinion of those present, the best mode of election would be a general popular vote, such as determines the election of M.H.R's.

Brought forward by the Central-Otago Branch and referred to Committee of Management. As an almost similar motion was passed last year, the Committee of Management took no action. It is generally conceded that the present method of election is open to three strong objections. (1) Committee's whether composed of five, seven, or nine members have equal voting powers. (2) Committee's representing a very small majority of parents can out-vote Committees representing a large majority. (3) Through the voting not being taken on one day, it is possible for circumstances to arise which might influence Committees to vote, not in accordance with their convictions, but rather from motives of policy.

It was not considered advisable for the Committee to take action at the time, seeing that an Act of Parliament is necessary to alter the system of election. (See Council's Report)

Page 11.

This question has been taken up by the Dunedin and Surburban School's Conference, but though strong arguments were brought against the present system, there seems no possibility of change in the immediate future. It can however again be taken up and remitted to the Educational Institute of N.Z. to take further action.

During last election to the Board the Dunedin Press very wisely abstained from publishing the votes of the individual Committees, giving only the total votes gained by each candidate.

5. That the Education Board be asked to consider the following proposal, "that no pupils be allowed in class rooms after 4 p.m.; and that the pupils doing Standard work be in no case allowed on school premises longer than 6 ½ hours, this time to include one hour for lunch."

Proposed by Mr. Jeffery. Motion lost.

6. That the Institute is in hearty sympathy with the Board's regulations re keeping-in and home lessons.

Moved by Mr Botting, and carried.

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7. That the Secretary write to the other Branches of the Otago Educational Institute asking their opinion as to the advisability of the members taking more active and united interest in the election of Members of the Education Board.

Brought forward by Otago Central Branch. Referred to Committee of Management. No action taken.

8. That it is not advisable to introduce the Bible into our Public Schools.

Proposed by Mr. Jeffery.

9. That it is not advisable at this Meeting to take a vote of Teachers on the question of the introduction of the Bible into the Public Schools, nod that the Committee of Management be requested to take steps to get the opinion of the Teachers of Otago on the question.

Amendment to 8. Proposed by Mr. Davidson.

10. That it is not desirable to take a vote of the Teachers on the matter.

Amendment to 9. Proposed by Mr. McElrea.

No. 10 was finally carried.

11. That in the election of President of the New Zealand Educational Institute, the Council shall in future receive nominations from the Branches, and shall at the Annual Meeting elect one of the Nominees as President for the ensuing year.

Remitted from Council of New Zealand Educational Institute for opinion of Branch Institutes. On the motion of Mr. Peattie it was resolved to disagree with the remit.

12. Mr. Peattie brought up the question of Syllabus for Class X.

It was explained that after an interview with the Chairman of the Board and with the Inspectors, the Syllabus had been amended, and in its amended form would give the teachers reasonable freedom, as the Inspectors only required from each school a Syllabus for Class X suited to the circumstances of that school.

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13. That the members of this Institute are-pleased to note that the Education Board has seen fit to appoint two of its teachers as Assistant-Inspectors; and that the Members congratulate the gentlemen so appointed.

Moved by Mr. Davidson.

14. That a hearty vote of thanks be passed to Mr. D. White, M.A., for his services as a member of the Executive representing this part of New Zealand.

Proposed by Mr. Davidson, seconded by Mr. Rennie.

Resume of Committee's Work,

Since the last Annual Meeting the Committee of Management has met seven times, the average attendance being 7.

Mr. Moore attended 7 times; Mr. Jeffery 6; Mr. Aldred, 4; Mr. W. G. Don, 5; Mr. Harnett, 3; Mr.Garrow, 4; Mr. McElrea, 3; Mr. White, 3; Mr. Davidson, 6; Mr. Valentine, 2; Mr. Eudey 7.

Scholarships.

Early in the year the Board proposed to change the date of the Scholarship examination from December to Midwinter, and the Committee on being asked its opinion on the proposed change, passed the following resolution:—"That while fully recognising the value of the reasons advanced by the Board for the change of date, the Committee of Management is of opinion that weightier reasons can be advanced for adhering to the present arrangements." At a subsequent meeting of the Board, it was decided to hold the Scholarship examinations as usual in December.

Quite recently the Board, in dealing with new regulations re Scholarships, asked the Institute to give its opinion on those for the Junior Scholarships, and to appoint a deputation to confer with the Boards' Committee and Inspectors. The Committee of Management expressed the opinion that it was not advisable to make any increase in the requirements for the Junior Scholarships, and appointed Messrs White, Moore, Jeffery and Eudey as a deputation to confer with the Boards' Committee and Inspectors.

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The Conference was held on Tuesday, May 18th., and dealt exhaustively with the question, the Inspectors and the teachers bringing forward facts hitherto unknown to the Hoard, and in some instances to each other At the conclusion of the proceedings it was generally conceded that Conferences of this nature are helpful to the Board, and are conducive to a better understanding among the three parties so closely connected with the Public Schools of the Province.

On the following Thursday, the Board agreed to revert to the old regulations for this year, and to ask the Inspectors, the Institute, and the Heads of the High Schools to meet for the purpose of drawing up, if necessary, a new syllabus of work.

The Committee thinking that the publication of the names of the defeated Scholarship candidates often did an injury both to the candidates and to the School which they attended early in the year, asked the Board not to publish these names: but the Board resolved to continue the practice.

Corporal Punishment.

In August, 1896, the Committee of Management, by invitation, conferred with Boards' Committee on Corporal Punishment regulations, and soon after were issued the regulations at present in existence. While there are admittedly defective, it must be remembered that they differ materially from what the Conference agreed to, and are less harassing than if the Executive had not been consulted. The Committee, feeling that some slight amendments were necessary, have recently asked the Board to require neither the registration of minor punishments, nor the presence of head-teacher while an assistant is administering a major punishment.—This question is to come before the Board's meeting in June.

Text Books.

At the last Annual Meeting, the question of School reading-books and histories was considered, and was referred to a large and representative Committee. This Committee determined to refer the question of Infant Readers to the matrons of the schools in and around Dunedin, and the question of Standard Readers and Histories to a sub-committee consisting of Messrs. White. Smith, Rennie, Kyle, Jeffery, South wick, and Eudey. This Committee, after long and careful deliberation, drew up the following report, which was forwarded to the Education Board by the Committee of Management.

page 10
The Committee recommended the following Readers:—
1.For Standard Classes.
(a).Longman's New Readers (New edition), or
(b).

Nelson's Crown Readers.

In order of preference.

2.For Infant Classes.
(a).Nelson's Crown Series, or
(b).Chambers's Fluent Series, or
(c).Longman's Ship Series.

As selected by Matrons of Dunedin and Suburban Schools.

With regard to Histories, the Committee recommended:—

1. For Small Schools Where Stds. Are Grouped:—
(a).Blackwood's Short Stories for Std III.
(b).Chamber's Senior History for Stds. IV. V. and VI.

2. For Large Schools Where Stds. IV. V. and VI. and Under Different Teachers:—

Arnold's Historical Reader. No. 7, for Std. VI. No. 6. for Std. V.; No. 5. for Std. IV.; No. 4. for Std. III.

If the Board thought it preferable to have a single volume for the three upper Stds., the Committee recommended Chamber's Senior History for these; and the retention of Blackwood's Short Stories for Std. III.

If it is preferable to have a single volume for the Standards, the Committee recommends that Chambers's Senior History take the place of Gardiner's History for Standards 4, 5, and 6, and that Blackwood's Short Stories be retained for S. 3.

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The Education Board referred the matter to the Inspectors, who reported:—

"The superiority (if any) of the readers recommended by the Institute over those in present use is not, we think, sufficiently great to justify us in advising the Board to make the charge. An entire change of readers would entail a heavy expense on parents—an expense that only very decided improvement in matter and manner would justify.

With respect to history, we advise the Board to adopt the teacher's recommendation to substitute Chamber's Senior History for Gardiner's. To enable the children to work off their old books (Gardiner's) the change should, we thing, begin in Std. IV.

The Board decided to adopt the recommendation of the Inspectors, and has since issued a circular authorising the use of Chambers's Senior History, which is admittedly easier and at the same time better adapted for use in Country Schools. The Committee of Management again communicated with the Board giving its reasons for desiring a change, and the letter was referred to the Board's Books Committee.

Incorporation.

In order to comply with the provisions of the Public School Teachers' Incorporation and Court of Appeal Act (extracts from which are given below), your Committee took steps during the past year to have 'The Educational Institute of Otago' registered and incorporated.

Extracts from Act.

4. Any society consisting of any number of teachers, not being less than ten, who reside in any one education district, and are associated for any lawful purpose connected with their profession (not being for purposes of gain), may be registered under this Act on compliance with the following provisions:— page 12
(1).An application for registration, stating the name of the proposed society, and signed by two or more officers thereof, shall be made to the Inspector General of Schools (hereinafter called "the Registrar").
(2).Such application shall be accompanied by—
(a.)A list of the members and officers of the society;
(b.)A copy of a resolution passed by a majority of the members present at a meeting of the society specially called for that purpose only, and desiring registration under this Act:
(c.)An address (to be called the "registered office") at which the business of the society is conducted.

5. On being satisfied that the provisions of section four hereof have been complied with, and on payment of a fee of one pound, the Registrar shall register the Society in a book to be kept for the purpose, and thereupon the society shall become a body corporate by the name mentioned in such application, with the addition of the word "registered," which shall be, its corporate style and title.

6. The Registrar shall issue to such society a certificate of incorporation in the prescribed form, and such certificate shall be evidence that the society named therein is duly incorporated under this Act.

7. The members of a society incorporated under this Act, and their successors, in general meeting assembled, may make rules for the government of the society, and alter and annul any such rules, and, in particular, may by such rules provide, inter alia, for

(1.)The qualifications and subscription for membership;
(2.)The method of election of new members;
(3.)The number and designation and the powers of the officers;page 13
(4.)The control, investment, and disposition of the funds and property of the society;
(5.)The method of enforcing observance of the rules by members of the society;
(6.)The control and use of the common seal.

8. Prima facie evidence of the rules shall be afforded by the production of what purports to be a copy thereof, if sealed with what purports to be the seal of the corporation, and signed by the President or Chairman thereof.

9. Every society when incorporated shall have perpetual succession and a common seal, and, in its corporate style and title, may hold and dispose of real and personal property, and may sue and be sued may may recover any moneys due to the corporation by any person whether a member thereof or not.

10. Any member who resigns, or in any other way ceases to be a member of the corporation, shall, unless the rules of the society otherwise provide, thereupon cease to have any right or interest in its property and concerns, but shall not thereby be freed from any then existing liability to the corporation whether for subscriptions or otherwise.

11.
(1.)Every society registered under this Act shall be deemed to be situate in the education district wherein its registered office is situate.
(2.)Every such society shall forward to the Registrar, at prescribed periodical intervals, prescribed returns containing prescribed particulars.
(3.)If any such society fails or neglects to furnish such returns, or to otherwise comply with the provisions of this Act, the Minister may cancel its incorporation.

12. It shall not be lawful for any society to be registered under this Act without the previous consent of the Minister, nor for any society to be registered under a name so similar to that of any registered society as, in the opinion of the Registrar, to lead to confusion.

page 14

Court of Appeal.

13. There is hereby constituted a Teachers' Court of Appeal (hereinafter called "the Court") for the purpose of hearing and determining appeals by teachers against dismissal or suspension.

14. (1.) the purposes of each appeal, as it arises, the Court shall consist of three persons, as follows:—
  • Such Stipendiary Magistrate in the district wherein the appellant teacher was employed at the time of his dismissal or suspension as the Minister appoints;
  • One person of either sex, to be nominated in the prescribed manner by a corporation situate in such district, and
  • One such person to be similarly appointed by the respondent Board which dismissed or suspended such teacher.

(2.) The Stipendiary Magistrate shall be Chairman of the Court, and shall have an original and, in the event of an equality of voting, a casting vote.

The above extracts deal with Incorporation and the Court of Appeal. The remainder of the act supplies regulations for the method of appeal, and for the carrying out of the Act.

Appointment of Teachers.

The new regulations for the appointment and promotion of teachers have now been in force for 15 months; and the table on page 5 of the Board's Annual Report just issued, is interesting, as showing how the regulations have worked during that time. These regulations have now had a fair trial, and on the whole have given pretty general satisfaction, especially to country teachers. The experience gained, however, has shown that there are defects in connection with the working of the regulations; for in some cases, length of service has not received due consideration either by the Board or by the appointing school committee, as, other circumstances being equal, short-serviced teachers have been preferred.

page 15

The Library.

Though the Institute possesses a Library, it has been of but little value to members. Want of funds has prevented the circulation of parcels of books, and the Institute does not possess a room; for these and other reasons the Home publishers have not been asked to forward specimen copies of their latest educational works. During the year there has been a movement on foot towards renting a room for the exclusive use of members of the Institute; but as yet the movers have not felt justified in taking the financial responsibility connected with the proposal; so in the meantime, the matter is in abeyance. The Dunedin Branch has, however, made arrangements with the Principal of the Normal School for the use of a room to house the Library, and it is proposed that this room be open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and that the leading Educational Journals be placed on the table. The Executive and the Dunedin Branch cordially invite country teachers to make the freest use of the room. The Home publishers will be communicated with, and it is hoped that during the year the Library will be considerably augmented. Perhaps the Executive will then be able to see its way to circulate up-to-date educational works among Branch centres.

The Institute and the Education Board.

By reference to other parts of the Report, it will be seen that the Board has been anxious to get the opinion of the Institute on questions connected with the effective administration of our Educational System. Teachers will fully appreciate this action, and it is to be hoped that the practice will continue; for a Conference consisting of representatives of the Board, of the Institute, and of the Inspectorial staff, must bring about good results and minimise misunderstandings and friction.

But in this connection it will not be amiss to say a word to teachers not connected with the Institute. The Board and its Inspectors, however willing to consult the Institute as representing page 16 experts, can only do so with dignity and with confidence in the results, when the Institute embodies the general opinion of the teachers as a whole. A great deal has been said about the Institute not being a fully representative body. The remedy lies with the teachers themselves, for the times are past when individual opinions can be listened to by a governing body taking charge of interests so varied and having results so far reaching. More would have been done in the past if teachers had been true to themselves. When an opportunity has occurred to voice the opinion of the Institute, the Executive has been brought face to face with the fact that teachers themselves might not be in agreement what the Executive might advance, and the Board also was able to retort that the Institute's opinion could not be taken as a representative one. It is therefore hoped that all certificated teachers in the Board's service will see their way to become members; for when the Institute represents the whole, of the teachers, the Board and its Inspectors will be still more willing to consult with the Executive, knowing that the outcome of such consultations will be welcomed by the majority of the profession.

Annual Meeting of Council,

The Annual Meeting of the Council of the Educational Institute of New Zealand, was held in Auckland on January 4th., and the two following days. There was a record attendance, representatives being present from every Education District in the Colony with the exception of Marlborough. The delegates were welcomed to Auckland by Sir G. M. O'Rorke. Canon Bates, Mr. Monk, M.H.K. and others who take great interest in education. A report of the Council meeting will be forwarded to each member of the Institute. It is unnecessary here to mention in detail the business transacted at the Council meeting, as no doubt our representatives, Messrs Davidson, Hodge, Mahoney and Moore will, at the Annual Meeting, report fully on the work done. Mr. Wm. Davidson, who, for four successive years has represented Otago at the Council's meetings, was elected president for the present year. The next meeting of the Council will be held in Dunedin beginning on January 4th 1898. It, is hoped that Otago teachers in general, and those of Dunedin and suburbs in particular, will give the visitors a hearty welcome, and do what they can to entertain them during their stay in our district.

page 17

The Educational Institute of New Zealand.

It has been urged that the connection of the Otago Educational institute with the New Zealand Educational Institute is a useless one, and therefore results in an unnecessary addition to the annual subscription. But this appears to the Committee to be an extremely narrow view of the position. If it is necessary for the Otago teachers to be a united body, so that the Board in consulting it does not lose dignity and will feel certain that the results will be satisfactory to all; it is also necessary for the Provincial Institutes to be united in one central body, which the Government may consult. In the past the Government has consulted the New Zealand Educational Institute, and has adopted proposals forwarded by it; it is therefore only reasonable to assume that the stronger the central body is, the greater the respect it will receive from the Executive of the Colony.

File of Back Reports Wanted.

It has been deemed advisable to procure and keep for future reference a complete set of the Institute's Annual Reports. Such a set would be most valuable, as showing the history of the Institute. Unfortunately, the Secretary has only a few odd reports, and he will be pleased to receive copies of reports from any member who may happen to have a spare copy.

The Constitution.

The Committee of Management thinks the time has arrived when the Constitution of the Institute should be revised, now that the Institute is incorporated. Great care should be taken in this work, and a strong endeavour made to bind the Branches of the Institute more closely together. A motion dealing with the question is to be tabled at the coming meeting.

page 18

The Institute's Finance.

Last year and this, it has been represented that the subscription to the Institute is large for the benefits received. The Otago Educational Institute receives from its Branches 7/6 from males and 4/- from females, giving an average last year of about 6/- per member. Of this, 2/6 is forwarded to the central body, the Educational Institute of New Zealand, leaving 3/6 per member for the Provincial Institute. By reference to the Report it will be seen that printing, advertising, and Secretary's expenses absorb about 2/6 of this amount, leaving about a shilling for incidentals. And this is too little rather than too much. Again and again the Institute has had to allow opportunities to do good to pass by, owing to want of funds. Further, the expenses for years past have been below the normal, for delegates to the Annual Meeting of the Educational Institute of New Zealand have not received their travelling expenses, nor has the item of rent appeared in the Balance Sheet.

The subscription can only be reduced by reducing the expenses; and expenses can only be reduced by one or both of the following: an increased membership or severance from the New Zealand Educational Institute. The printing, advertising, etc., of the Institute would cost but little more if the membership were doubled; but even then, those intimately connected with the working of the Institute know that it would not be advisable to reduce the subscription. Nor is separation from the Central body to be thought of. If it is advisable to have a strong Provincial Institute which the Provincial Education Board can consult with confidence) it is the more necessary that there should be a Colonial Educational Institute, which the Executive of the Colony can look upon as an advisory body. It is just as well to remember too, that forty per cent of the subscription to the New Zealand Educational Institute goes to the Defence Fund, which now amounts to £150, and stands behind any member suffering an injustice. In one page 19 respect it may be that the subscription at present is partly a useless expenditure. That, however, will cease to be the case when teachers swell the membership of the Institute, for then teachers will be able to exercise a public influence consonant with their position.

In connection with the financial position of the Institute there is a very general misconception connected with the Balance Sheet issued with the Annual Report. A balance of say £25, may in reality be a debit, for out of the balance, the expenditure for the ensuing year has to be paid; and reference to the Report shows that the Balance does not do much more than meet that expenditure.

Many teachers in outlying districts may not see the necessity of joining a Branch when distance prevents them from attending the meetings such Branch may hold When it is seen that Branch membership is not convenient, then teachers can enroll themselves by sending 7/6 in stamps or otherwise, direct to the Secretary of the Institute.

A Charitable Appeal.

About three years ago the head-teacher of the Waikoikoi School had to apply for leave of absence on account of mental troubles brought on by overwork. After a lengthened holiday, spent for the most part in Australia, he recovered sufficiently to take up his work again; but in a short time it became necessary for him to retire from the service, and he has since then been quite incapacitated from work of any kind. His helplessness and misfortune have been further increased by the recent loss of his wife, who had been for some time in ill-health. Seven young children are left practically without parents. The savings of years have been more than absorbed in household and medical expenses; and, though some of the children are permanently placed, and the rest at present cared for by friends had relatives, a few pounds will be of extreme service in relieving pressure and in providing for immediate necessities. Subscriptions, sent in the way most convenient to givers, will be received and acknowledged, either by J. Jeffery, Anderson's Bay School, or W. Eudey, Kensington School.

page 20

Annual Meeting.

This year's Annual. Meeting will be held in the Y.W.C.A. Rooms, Moray Place, and as the schools will be closed at the time of the Diamond Jubilee celebration, it is to be hoped there will be a record attendance.

The Committee unsuccesfully endeavoured to procure for the schools a fortnight's holiday in connection with the Record Reign Celebration. In doing so it was prompted by the fact that schools usually get one week at Midwinter, and it therefore thought that, to mark the very exceptional event, an extended holiday might be granted to the children.

The Committee regrets being unable to have the Annual Report in the hands of the teachers at an earlier date. As the meeting this year, has been brought forward about three weeks, this has caused the Annual Meeting of the Institute to follow very closely upon the Annual Meeting of the branches.

As in former years, the Institute is indebted to the Education Board for the use of the Normal School and for issuing circulars to School Committees advising the closing of the schools; and to the Inspectors for kindly refraining from holding examinations during the week immediately following the holidays.

The Report issued this year is intentionally more exhaustive than was the case in previous years. The Institute passed through a crisis last year and now that it stands on a firm basis it has been thought advisable to make the report fuller so" that non-members may not plead ignorance of the Institute's work and may be in a position to realize the necessity for falling into line.

page 21

Branch Reports.

Reports From the Dunedin, Bruce-Clutha, and Central Otago Brandies are attached. From a perusal of these it will be seen that there is considerable vitality in some parts of the province; and it is to be hoped that during the year Branches will be re-established in the Oamaru and Tuapeka districts.

Report of Dunedin Branch.

1896-7.

During the year the Executive have held eight meetings all of which have been well attended.

In reply to a request to the Committee of Management to recommend to the Board the advisability of showing on Scholarship and Pupil Teacher Examination papers, the marks allotted by the examiner to each question, the Executive were informed that there was little difference in the number of marks allotted to each question.

In view of the increase made in the requirements in Scholarship examinations the Executive supported the Hon. John Macgregor's motion to raise the age limit to 13yrs. 6mths. and 15yrs. 6mths.

As you are aware the increase proposed is withdrawn for the present year.

The question of Corporal punishment bulked largely in teachers' minds during the year and the Committee of Management was the object of many unkind remarks on the part of teachers.

The Executive viewed with alarm the attitude the Committee was reported to have taken up on this question, but on enquiry found that the interests of the teachers were being carefully guarded by that body.

page 22

Acting under directions given by ten at the general meeting of members, the Executive arranged for holding a picnic at the Glen Outram.

Unfortunately the weather proved unfavourable. Those who were present expressed themselves as thoroughly pleased with the outing, and the Executive is of opinion that the teachers' picnic now inaugurated, will in its yearly recurrence prove a great means of bringing teachers together in social intercourse.

The success of the picnic under adverse circumstances leads the Executive to the conclusion that the time has arrived when one or two evening gatherings could with advantage be held.

Another of the recommendations of the General meeting was, 'that a room should be obtained in which teachers might meet, and in which educational books and journals could be read.' After obtaining information as to the rent of suitable rooms, the Executive decided that for the present at least it would be better to use one of the rooms in the Normal School. The library is now in that room, and Educational papers will be filed. Teachers will in turn be in charge of the room on Saturdays from 9a.m. to 4p.m. and all members of the Institute will be cordially welcomed and are invited to make the freest use of the room.

It was thought that on account of the Diamond Jubilee, schools should be closed from June 19th to July 3rd, and that the Inspectors' examinations should not begin till a fortnight after the re-opening of the schools. Suggestions to that effect were made to the Board through the Committee of Management, bet the proposals were not favourably received.

Your Executive also took into consideration another matter that seemed to them of pressing importance; that was the payment of subscriptions. Though the Branch has been supported this year even better than last there are many teachers who are not members. The custom has prevailed of paying page 23 subscriptions at all times before the year begins and after it has closed. This leads to confusion both as to membership and as to the actual financial position of the Branch—a state of affairs that should not be allowed to continue. The Branch now forms a part of a duly registered society, with a legal standing, and if membership is of any use at all, teachers should see that they are on the roll of members. The Executive have therefore to recommend to their successors the urgent necessity of devising some means of collecting subscriptions and compiling the roll in the beginning of the Institute's year, as a roll is absolutely necessary, now that the Branch forms part of an incorporated society.

Another matter that must soon be considered is the drawing up of a set of rules for the Branch, in accordance with the Constitution to be drawn up by the Institute.

While convinced of the greater facility in the despatch of business obtained by present arrangements, the Executive consider that the general monthly meetings were of good service, and would recommend that arrangements be made for again holding general meetings.

When Unions of all kinds are so flourishing it is strange that "The Teachers' Union," which has for its object, not only the improvement in the position of teachers as a body, but also the advance of general education throughout the Colony, should be so feebly supported.

The Incorporation of teachers as a legally registered society, the gathering in social intercourse, and the opening of a teacher's reading-room are the main distinguishing points of progress during the past year, and these, the Executive trust will be effective in destroying the apathy which at present so largely exists, so that our Union may become more powerful, not only for the furtherance of the interests of teachers but also for the good of the whole community.

page 4

List of Members.

  • Miss Jessie Cairns, High St. School.
  • Mr. Bobert Huie, Totara.
  • Mr. John F. Botting, Broad Bay.
  • Mr. O. J. Hodge, Normal.
  • Dr. J. B. Don, Waitaki.
  • Mr. Wrn. G. Don, Caversham.
  • Mr. Geo. Balsille, Sandymount.
  • Mr. Arthur W. Tyndall, Blue Spur.
  • Mr. Fred. S. Aldred, Greytown.
  • Mr. Wm. Davidson, Waitati.
  • Mr. Miss Farquharson, Waitati.
  • Mr. Miss Kirby, Waikouaiti.
  • Mr. Joseph Southwick, St. Leonards.
  • Mr. D. McNicoll, George St.
  • Miss Turnbull, George St.]
  • Miss Jane Campbell, Kaikorai.
  • Miss Mary Alexander, Kaikorai.
  • Miss Jane Wilson, Kaikorai.
  • Mr. John Robertson, High St.
  • Miss Jane Hooper, Kensington.
  • Mr. Walter Eudey, Kensington.
  • Mr. William Gray, Mornington.
  • Miss Mary McEwen, Kaikorai.
  • Mr. John Whyte, Highcliff.
  • Mr. W. B. Graham, Forbury.
  • Mr. C. Young, Caversham.
  • Mr. J. R. Rutherford, Kensington.
  • Miss Anderson, North Taieri.
  • Miss S. Albert, Kensington.
  • Miss Alice Andrew, High St.
  • Miss Effie Morgan, Taiaora Heads.
  • Mr. Thos. C. Fraser, West Taieri.
  • Mr. Alex. Kyle, Mornington.
  • Miss Mary Cameron, Mornington.
  • Miss Janet Highet, Green Island.
  • Mr. W. S. Fitzgerald.
  • Miss Waiden, Anderson's Bay.
  • Mr. Jas. Jeffery, Anderson's Bay.
  • Miss Gordon, N.E. Valley.
  • Miss Mcintosh, Mornington.
  • Miss Mary Mills, Green Island.
  • Miss Jessie Mills, Walton.
  • Miss Bott, Fort Chalmers.
  • Miss Scott, Mosgiel.
  • Mr. W. Milne, Caversham.
  • Miss Harrison, Whare Flat.
  • Mr. L. A. Line, Union St.
  • Mr. J. A. MeNickle, Albany St.
  • Mr. John White, Outrarn.page 25
  • Miss Horne, Green Island.
  • Mr. D. E. White, Normal.
  • Miss White, Union St.
  • Miss C. E. Little, Eavensbourne.
  • Mr. J. S. Tennant, High St.]
  • Mr. John A. Pitzgerald, N. E. Valley.
  • Mr. Alex. McLean, George St.
  • Mr. J. D. Gar row, Kaikorai.
  • Mr. David Murray,
  • Mr. John Heid, Ravensbourne.
  • Mr. Anderson, North Taieri.
  • Mr. Sinclair, Port Chalmers.
  • Mr. Jas. Rennie, Port Chalmers.
  • Mr. Alex. Stewart, Union St.
  • Mr. J. W. Smith, High St.
  • Mr. W. J. Moore.

Bruce Clutha Branch.

Annual Report. 1896-7.

Officers.

  • President.—James Reid, Esq., Milton.
  • Secretary.—Mr. J. A. Valentine, Clutha.
  • Treasurer.—Miss Allan, Balclutha.
  • Representative on Committee of Management.—Mr. C. R. Smith, Stirling.
  • Librarian.—R. Peattie, Esq., Taieri Ferry.

During the year 1896-7 six meetings have been held, two at Milton, two at Balclutha, one at Kaitaugata, and one at Stirling. The attendance has been very good, the lowest being 12 and the highest 24.

Great interest has beer, displayed at the meetings, and some of the papers read were of high merit. The discussions that arose out the various topics dealt with were profitable and carried on in a capital spirit.

Altogether, our Franch is in a healthy, lively condition, yet our membership might be much larger than it is, and our members would do well to seek to induce teachers outside our ranks to join with us.

page 26

The following is the programme that has been carried out 1896.

June 27—At Balclutha. Taste. "The Cultivation of Literary Miss E. J. Anderson, M.A.
Aug. 29—At Kaitangata. "Standard X." R. Peattie, Esq, M.A.
Oct. 31—At Stirling. (a) "Oral Composition." C. Mahoney, Esq.
(b) "Perspective Drawing." W. McElrea, Esq., B.E.
1897.
Feb. 27—At Milton, (a) Report on Council Meeting. C. Mahoney, Esq.
(b) Discussion on Proposed Amendments in Hoard's Appointment regulations.
Mar. 13—At Milton. Same discussion continued.
May 1—At Balciutha. Annual Meeting. "Bonuses or no Bonuses." R. Peattie, Esq., M.A.
J. S. Valentine, Hon Sec.

List of Members.

  • Miss Heckler, Waitahuna Gully.
  • Miss Sinclair, Southbridge.
  • Miss Allan, Balclutha.
  • Miss Ralston, Manuka Creek.
  • Miss Kinder, Stony Creek.
  • Miss Jordan, Round Hill.
  • Miss Paterson. Kaitangata.
  • Miss Sinclair. Kaitangata.
  • Miss M. A. Green, Circle Hill.
  • Miss McLaren, Milton.
  • Miss Gibb, Milton.
  • Mr. James Smith, Milton.
  • Mr. A. M. Barnett, Waitahuna Gully.
  • Mr. C. H. Richardson, Dunedin, Inspector.
  • Mr. J. A. Valentine, Balclutha,
  • Mr. James Reid, Milton.
  • Mr. Robert Peattie, Taieri Ferry.
  • Mr. W. McElrea, Balclutha.
  • Mr. Jos. Davidson, Waitepeka.
  • Mr. C. R. Smith, Stirling.
  • Mr. A. Grigor, Matau.
  • Mr. Nicholson, Kaitangata.
  • Mr. W. McLaren, Kaitangata.
  • Mr. McNeur, Port Molyneuk.
  • Mr. Watters, Milton.
  • Mr. A. Parlane, Milton.
  • Mr. C. Mahoney, Fairfax.
page 27

Central Otago Branch.

  • PresidentMr. Warburton.
  • Vice-PresidentMiss Cameron.
  • SecretaryMiss Waddell.

Annual Report.

I have the honour to submit for your approval the Report for the year 1896-7.

Four meetings have been held during the year, two at Cromwell and two at Clyde. The average attendance has been seven.

The programme for the year is a very short one, and is as follows:—

Nov.—"The New Learning, an Historical Sketch,'

Mr. Fleming.

March 6.—"An Hour with the Dictionary,"

Rev. Mr. Cumming.

During the year the Board's attention was again drawn to the unsuitability of the History Text Books at present in use in our schools, and this Branch congratulates itself that its unceasing efforts have at last met with success.

The Secretary of the Institute was written to for particulars about the Library of the Institute, and the matter was brought before the Committee of Management. Steps are to be taken to put the Library on a more useful footing, and to allow country Branches the opportunity of gaining some advantage from it.

List of Members.

  • Miss Cameron, Tarras.
  • Miss White, Queensberry.
  • Miss Waddell, Cromwell.
  • Miss McMillan, Earnscleugh.
  • Mr. Harvey, Bald Hill Flat.
  • Mr. Closs, Alexandra, S.
  • Mr. Warburton, Cromwell.
  • Mr. Fleming, Bannockburn.

Members Not Attached to any Branch.

  • Mr. Barnard, Hyde.
  • Mr. Ellison, Tuapeka Mouth.
  • Mr. Hilgendorf, Taieri Beach.