Page:Hints for the improvement of village schools and the introduction of industrial work.djvu/11

7 It is the object of this pamphlet to show, that a combination of industrial work with book learning, of a practical character, will, in great measure, solve the aforesaid problem, provided always that the managers are careful to adapt the education to the wants of their parish. At the risk of appearing egotistical, I will briefly state what has been done in the parish of Shipbourne, and what results have ensued.

In September, 1855, I was appointed to the incumbency. Up to that date the school, containing some thirty scholars, had been in charge of a young and uncertificated master, and the one room of which it consisted was cold, damp, and badly provided with materials. My first care was to consider what class and character of school would be best suited to the wants of the parish, and could be supported by the subscriptions which amounted to about £40 a year. It was very evident that two schools could not be maintained, and objecting strongly to a mixed school under a master, (for which indeed the funds were inadequate,) I determined on having a mixed school under a first-rate mistress, who could give such an education as the farmers and tradesmen in the village would be thankful to obtain for their children; while I purposed, by means of an industrial establishment, to attract scholars, and to retain them longer than is found practicable in schools of the ordinary description. The following table shows the progress of the school, and I think proves satisfactorily that parents appreciate a sound practical education more readily than is commonly supposed:—

The reports of Her Majesty's Inspectors run thus:—

May, 1855. "This school (mixed, under a young master) suffers not so much from want of finances, as of some one to exercise over it a due superintendence. The master receives no support, and there seems no prospect of any improvement. The writing was the best subject."

June, 1856. "This is a very promising little institution, lately placed under a certificated mistress, who seems likely to do justice to the favourable parochial auspices under which it has been set on foot."

July, 1857. "School premises very good, and well found in books and apparatus. Four classes, under a certificated mistress, an assistant mistress, and one candidate. The instruction is carefully given, and the tone of the school is exceedingly good."

July, 1858. "This school (mixed) is conducted with great care and judgment, and nothing is wanted to render it thoroughly efficient. The children are well instructed, and the industrial department is well managed."