"Farnham Castle, 25th July 1855. "In conformity with the pledge I gave on Thursday last, I have now to request that you will make the following offer to the Surrey Church of England Schoolmasters' Association:

I. Schoolmasters.-I offer a prize of books, to be competed for by schoolmasters in connection with the Parent Society, or with any of its associated branches. Subject: "The teacher out of school; his duties, opportunities, and resources."

II. Schoolmistresses.-A prize of books, to be competed for by schoolmistresses in connection with the Parent Society, or with any of its associated branches. Subject: "On the best means of securing the sympathy of the children with the teacher in the great objects of Education."

Conditions.-(1.) Three adjudicators shall be appointed by the committee to decide on the merits of the essays sent in, under a cipher, in competition for the prizes.

(2.) The essays shall not exceed 200 lines of foolscap, and shall be sent to the Secretary at Reigate, prepaid, by the 1st of May 1856.

(3.) The successful competitors to be declared, and the prizes to be delivered, at the next annual meeting of the Association; and (if time permit) their subjects to be discussed orally at the meeting.I am, &c. &c. C. R. WINTON.'

"To Rev. J. C. Wynter."

VALE OF AYLESBURY ASSOCIATION.-The first anniversary of this Society took place on Wednesday, July 25th. The meeting was presided over by Archdeacon Bickersteth; and the proceedings commenced in the parish church with a full service and Holy Communion. There was a very good attendance of the clergy and teachers. The business of the Association was then proceeded with in the National Schools, when the Secretary, Mr. Mills, read the annual report of the progress, &c. of the Association during the past year. The report was adopted, and ordered to be printed and circulated among the members. The Rev. W. Rawson, Treasurer, next read the financial report, from which it appeared that the Society had a balance in its favour of about 41. To this was to be added 21. collected at the offertory in the morning. It was agreed that 51. of this balance should be set apart for the purpose of commencing a library. The number and place of meetings were then considered; and after a great deal of discussion, it was finally agreed that there should during the ensuing year be four at Aylesbury and two at Linslade.

After the conclusion of the business, the Association proceeded to the grounds of the Prebendal House, where a collation was provided for them by Archdeacon Bickersteth, who received the members upon their arrival at his mansion with his wonted courtesy and cordiality. Grace having been said, and justice done to the collation so kindly provided, a variety of toasts were given and responded to, which elicited remarks suitable to the occasion.

The company partook of tea; and after this repast, the proceedings terminated with prayers in the church. The members then separated, much cheered and gratified with the proceedings generally, and particularly with the hospitality of the Venerable Archdeacon.

During the day it was suggested, that in connection with this Society something of a Choral Society might be formed, embracing the clergy and schoolmasters of the neighbourhood, so as to make it the means of diffusing something like a uniform system of church music, the advantages of which must be familiar to any one who has attended churches in two or three different parishes.

The Secretary was ordered forthwith to act upon the suggestion.

HALIFAX ASSOCIATION.-On Saturday, July 21st, a general meeting of this Association was held in the Parish Church National School, when a paper was read by Mr. E. T. Stevens, of Crophills School, Halifax, "On the Minutes of Council on Education recently issued." Remarks on the pupilteacher and inspectorial systems occupied the principal part of the paper. Also on the 18th of August, at a general meeting, a paper was read by Mr. Jones of Harewood, On the value of illustration as an auxiliary to the teacher." Both papers were well received; and, after discussion, a vote of thanks was in each case unanimously accorded to the lecturers.

GLANDFORD BRIGG ASSOCIATION.-The quarterly meeting of this Association was held at the National Schoolroom, Brigg, and was well attended by schoolmasters from the surrounding districts, many of whom came a distance of nine or ten miles. In the absence of any of the local clergy, Mr. Probert filled the chair. After the reading of the minutes of the last meeting, and admitting new members to the Society, Mr. Cant of the Union School, Brigg, read a paper "On teaching reading in National Schools," which was attentively listened to; and as the subject is of great importance, a lengthened discussion followed, in which all the members present took a very lively interest. The meeting was closed by prayer in the usual manner.

HUDDERSFIELD ASSOCIATION.-The August meeting of this Association was one of more than usual interest. A paper, entitled "A few words upon, and an attempt to simplify, the method of teaching writing," was read by Mr. Brewer of Milnesbridge. After dwelling for a short time on the importance of writing, and deprecating the want of system which too often prevailed in many otherwise good schools in imparting instruction in this branch of education, the lecturer introduced his method, illustrating his remarks by numerous gradations, &c. The lecturer's plan of teaching the first principles was to all present a novel one; yet it was deemed simple, rational, and practical, and one that would, if fully carried out, ensure that rare acquisition, good writing. The paper was listened to with marked attention, and was highly applauded by those who heard it; the teachers strongly urging Mr. Brewer to make his views public, being fully persuaded that they only required to be known to be appreciated. The Secretary suggested that in future matters relating to schoolmanagement should from time to time be discussed; and proposed "The best means of securing punctuality of attendance in schools," for consideration at the September meeting.

THE WEST MEDINA (ISLE OF WIGHT) ASSOCIATION held its fifth meeting, by the kind invitation of the Rev J. Blackburn, at Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, on the 22d ult., when a variety of topics, immediately bearing upon the daily engagements of those assembled, was discussed. This Society has now been in existence about two years, and has recently united itself to the Hampshire Church School Society; from which union, it is hoped and expected, many advantages will accrue to it. The meetings, which take place half-yearly in the different parishes of the Deanery, are intended to form more of a relaxation than a business conference, and are so conducted, that business and recreation are very pleasantly and profitably blended. At the close of a meeting, it is customary for the President, the Rural Dean, to suggest some subject for consideration during the interval before the next meeting. A very important question is now placed by him before the members, in order that it

may be hereafter discussed, viz. "What can be done in our daily schools to induce the children to attend more regularly our Sunday-schools." A sort of amendment to this may also be canvassed, viz. "What alterations and improvements can be made in our Sunday-schools, in order that they may efficiently co-operate with the day-schools, and more effectually second the efforts there made for the welfare of our children and the unity of our Church."

MONTGOMERY ASSOCIATION.-The annual meeting of this Association was held in the National Schoolrooms at Welshpool, on Friday, August 3d. Archdeacon Clive presided. The meeting having been opened with prayer, the Treasurer submitted his accounts, which showed a balance of 61. 10s. 4d. in favour of the Association. It was agreed that 67. be laid out in the purchase of books, and a grant in aid of such purchase be applied for from the Committee of Council.

The Report, which was then read by the Secretary and adopted, states that the Committee feel greatly encouraged in a retrospect of the proceedings of the year which has just closed. Notwithstanding the great distance which separates masters in country-places, and particularly in this county, the district and quarterly meetings during this second year of the existence of the Association have been very well attended; and the excellent papers delivered, and practical lessons given by the masters, attest their energy and steadfastness, and the deep interest they feel in the operations of the local Association. Since the formation of this Association, essays have been written by the masters, and delivered at the quarterly meetings, on the following subjects: "The principles of teaching"-"The principles of life assurance"-"The early history of Turkey"-" The utility of the Montgomeryshire Church Schoolmasters' Association." Class lessons have also been given on the following subjects at the circulating District Meetings: On "Common things"-"The best method of teaching Grammar"— "The air, its properties and uses." The Association has also thankfully to acknowledge the advantage of several excellent addresses on the subject of Education from many of the clerical members of the Association. An excellent paper, "On the utility of the Montgomeryshire Church Schoolmasters' Association, with reasons for joining it," was read at the close of the meeting by Mr. Williams of Meifod School, in which mutual encouragement and combination of energies were forcibly advocated. The Ven. Chairman, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr. Williams, favoured the meeting with some lengthened and excellent remarks on the duty of teachers in respect to the individual disposition and character of the children intrusted to their management.

After a vote of thanks to the Chairman, the meeting separated, highly pleased with the day's proceedings.

TESTIMONIALS.-To Mr. C. CAYZER, on resigning charge of St. Anne's National School, Lime house, a Purse of Gold from the Rector and Subscribers, a numerously-signed Testimonial by the Inhabitants and old Scholars, and sundry Gifts from the Male and Female Pupil-teachers.

To Mr. CHARLES TOON, on leaving Rockingham School through ill-health, a handsomely bound 4to Bible and a Purse of 25 Sovereigns, by several Friends, the Pupil-teachers and Children of the School. To Mr. B. FRANKLYN, a Pencil-case, by the Children of Holy Trinity School, Aylesbury.

To Mr. JAMES B. CLARKE, a Writing Desk with Inscription, by the Parents and Friends of the Children attending Alton School, Staffordshire.

To Mr. and Mrs. EDWARDS, 7 Vols of Barnes's Notes, by the Pupil-teachers of the St. Stephen's Schools, Tonbridge, on the completion of the first year of their apprenticeship.

To Mr. and Mrs. SoWLER, on leaving Wintringham National School, for Forcett School, near Darlington, a Family Bible, from the Rev. T. F. R. and Mrs Read.

To Miss SPEAIGHT, on leaving Alverstoke, a Church Service, Rollin's Ancient History, and the Works of Josephus, by the Rector, Ladies, Visitors, Teachers, and Children of the School.

APPOINTMENTS.-Mr. JOHN TOWNSEND FOWLER, Normal Master of the York and Ripon Training College, to be Principal of the Normal College about to be established at Madras.

Mr. CHARLES MORGAN, late Tutor at the Training College, Carmarthen, to St. Paul's School, Plaisance, Demerara.

Mr. JOHN W. SAUNDERS, from Hackney Road, to St. Mary's Schools, West Brompton.
Mr. J. HARRIS, from Thorverton, to the Ridgway District School, Plympton, St. Mary.

Mr. W. ANDERSON, from Boscastle, to the National School, St. Helier's, Jersey.

Mr. B. FRANKLYN, from Aylesbury, to Audley Endowed Grammar School.

Mr. THOMAS JONES, from Bodfaen, to the National School, Llangollen.

NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.

We cannot undertake to notice anonymous communications, nor to insert letters or information received after the 20th. The name and address of our correspondents should always be sent, though not necessarily for publication.

"G. A. C." The kind gift you wish us to notice is from an individual, and cannot be considered

a public testimonial.

"H. H." Our notice of testimonials must be confined to teachers.

"J. Brown," "E. Martin," "Justitia," "A Pupil-teacher." Declined with thanks.

"T. M." The clergyman you refer to should procure the Church Education Directory and Supplement. It will supply him with the information he needs.

"W. L." For the managers.

The Lichfield and London Board Report in our next.

Several other communications not noticed above are in type, and we hope may appear in our

next.

THE Committee of the National Society are about to resume their Meetings after the Autumn Vacation.

New Subscriptions.

The following Donations and new Annual Subscriptions have been contributed since the last announcement, and are hereby thankfully acknowledged. The List is made up to the 20th October.

Wolverhampton, Collection at Collegiate
Church

Dolgelly, collection at Parish Church of 2 8 10
Contributions from Church Societies,
Association of the Parishes of Staple
Fitzpaine, Bickenhall, and Orchard
Portman, by Rev. F. B. Portman

Galloway, Rev. W. B. Regent's Park a. 1 1

Butt, Mr. A. St. George's Schools, South

Street, Grosvenor Square

Dacre, Miss Frances, Stratford
Heaton, Rev. H. E. Llangefni
Rodwell, H. Esq. Ipswich
A Friend, Springfield, Ross
Gaskill, Mr. J. Whitby.
Dover, Trinity District Schools
Anonymous, Dover

Boothby, Rev. H. B. Lissington

Jarratt, W. Esq. Driffield

Douton, Rev. C. D. Odell

DIOCESE OF DURHAM.

Durham, the Lord Bishop of, Stockton 105 0 0

Dodds, J. Esq.

Richmond, R. Esq.

Trotter, C. Esq.

Thompson, R. Esq.

Anon.

Stratten, Rev. J. R. Leeds
Robinson, Mr. E. Skipton
Birtwhistle, Mr. W. ditto

DIOCESE OF ROCHESTER.

0 10 6

Williams, Rev. T. Jones, Llanfair
Welldon, Mrs. Beaumaris

DIOCESE OF CHESTER.
Liverpool.

Brakell, Mr. Thomas

a.

Ellis, Rev. A. A.

0 10 a. 1

1

M'Cormick, W. Esq.

Cox, E. W. Esq.

Hubback, J. Esq.

Turner, Rev. D. W.

1515260502106

0 2 6

0 10 0

0 6 0

DIOCESE OF WORCESTER.

Birmingham.

Aston, Mr. Thomas

Aston, Mr. John

a.

a.

a.

a. 0 5 0

0

0

5 0

Mendham, Rev. J. Sutton Coldfield

Dickins, Rev. C. A. Tardebigg

Rotherham, R. K. Esq. jun. Coventry a. 1 1 0

L

Organising Masters.

The services of these officers of the Society continue to be greatly appreciated wherever they have been made available. At the present time the Society has an Organising Master disengaged; and the Committee are prepared to receive applications from Diocesan or Local Boards for his services.

Training Colleges.

VACANCIES FOR QUEEN'S SCHOLARS,

The following information is supplied by the Principal of the Durham Training College, with a view to the renewal of the Table which appeared in the November Number of this Paper last year. Particulars of the other Training Colleges in union with the Society shall be printed in the December Number, if the Principals consider it would then be available, and will forward the necessary information.

Diocese of Winchester Training School,

The following letters by the Principal, on the principles of training attempted to be carried out in the Winchester Training School for Masters, are deserving attention as meeting the prevalent objections to training schools in general:

DEAR SIR,-In reply to your inquiry, and in reference to your allusion to the course of study and discipline pursued in the training school, I offer these general remarks. A suspicion prevails that our system educates too highly for instructors of poor children, and not practically. Now, it is evident that no man can educate or draw out the faculties of children without a previous development of his own faculties. And how is a man's mind to be developed? Certainly not by confining him to the narrow childish range of subjects available in a village school. A manly power of mind requires a manly range for its exercise, and the great difficulty in training has hitherto lain in approximating such a course of study to what the students would be able to teach in their future schools. This difficulty has been evidently felt by the Inspectors of Training Schools not less than by the authorities conducting those schools. But a comparison of the question-papers given at the last inspection with those of any previous year, will show how much more distinctly such a course is now comprehended and defined. In explanation of the course pursued at the Winchester Training School, I offer these remarks, premising that the real end of its training is to produce minds of sufficient strength, discipline, flexibility, and resource for adapting themselves efficiently to any National School. A man cannot be reasonably regarded as competent to train the minds or form the principles of the rising population of a village, when he himself has merely learned those things in detail which he expects to teach the children of his charge. One who devotes his time to the education of two or three children only, may ultimately bring them nearly to his own standard of attainment and cultivation; but a man who would work a school efficiently requires a real ascendency of mind, information, and tone. Unless he is able to make his opinions justly respected, there will be a continuance of petty opposition from the children; or the master, despairing of any success by teaching, will allow the work to subside into a system of learning things by rote, which are not understood at the time and which serve no useful purpose in after-life.

The course of instruction pursued at the Winchester Training School is based upon these views, a large portion of the students' time, and the exclusive attention of one lecturer, are given to mathematical studies. For the effectual cultivation of mind, some uniform line of study must be pursued to a considerable extent. For this purpose, a course of mathematical reading is well adapted to the future National Schoolmaster. It produces strength and flexibility in the reasoning powers, with discrimination and decision pursuit of truth.

the

A knowledge of the Bible and Liturgy is of course regarded as fundamental in a schoolmaster's training. That a smaller aggregate of time is given to this than to mathematical studies results from the fact, that every person considered as a proper candidate for admission to the school must possess much previous acquaintance with these subjects.

Geography, Popular Astronomy, and English History, must be regarded among the

most useful branches of digested information. A knowledge of past history must also be the real though latent antidote to the excess of innovating principle too generally prevalent among a large class of the community.

Elementary, experimental, physical, and chemical science, have been pointed out to me as the first effectual means of arousing the mind to general habits of intelligent observations and reflection. My present experience fully confirms this opinion.

The parsing and paraphrasing of Milton, though difficult to attain without a competent knowledge of Latin, are yet justly made by Privy Council the test of a schoolmaster's acquaintance with his own language.

You allude to tone and discipline, as probably auxiliary to the intellectual success of the training school. It would be possible to demonstrate this connection by striking instances. I wish the whole tone and discipline of the training school to rest on a sense of our mutual obligations to God. I wish to do what I can for the pupils in every way. I ask them in turn to do what they can for me. I am enabled, through my mother's assistance, largely to consult their comfort in little things. I ask them in turn to consider my feelings and wishes in things seemingly indifferent. I ask a certain amount of deference to my opinion, from experience and long intercourse with a highly cultivated grade of society; on the other hand, I do not assume myself faultless either in judgment or practice; and I feel it no compromise to alter any of the rules, if I am convinced that they are founded on false notions or that circumstances render them inexpedient. The pupils are encouraged to tell me their grievances, so that they are not frivolous; and if they and I are both striving to do what we ought, what reasonable ground can there be for antagonism? If such enforcements as I cannot abandon are thought needlessly stringent or galling, I have almost invariably data to produce from my seven years' experience in the training school, and twenty-three years' in teaching; the statements or complaints made to me at different times by clergymen furnish me largely. Sometimes I can fall back upon remarks of the Lord Bishop of the Diocese, or of leading members of the Board. Disobedience commonly results from thoughtlessness rather than wilfulness (a fact which every schoolmaster needs well to bear in mind); but if forbearance is too strongly tasked, the pupils are reminded of the authority of the Board, and that without a change, the Board must decide whether they or I remove, for we certainly shall not continue together. I feel it essential to cultivate in myself great sensitiveness, without suspiciousness, and if a point cannot be cleared up at the time, I watch for circumstances to unfold the truth. If a pupil shows petulance, which rarely happens, I can turn it into a plea for forbearance towards my own unintentional aggressions upon a pupil's rights or feelings. I assume that he has inconsiderately hurt my feelings; let him then judge as candidly of what has been hurtful to himself. Every thing which can justly induce retaliation or resentful feelings is most scrupulously avoided, such as sweeping accusations, unsupported by facts, and stated without palliations for thoughtlessness or accident. Nothing is so strongly marked for reprobation as the leaving matters to find their level by mutual sullenness; petulance may be borne occasionally, but sullen compliance must not be tolerated. This is attacked as utterly inconsistent with Christian principle. Every student is regarded as wishing to act upon Christian principle, or he has no right to appear in the training school. That school is mainly supported by persons anxious that children should be trained in the knowledge and love of God. Then how unmanly and unprincipled must any one be who will undertake for hire to train children in a path of holiness which he himself will not follow! This point being settled, that no students can consistently resist Christian principles, it is my object continually to bring before them gentlemanly principles (by which I mean generosity of character and consideration for others), the appeal being made to them whenever occasion serves. "Why should not they, from the love of Christ, cultivate those habits which impart the delight we feel in social intercourse? Others will do so from secular motives; much more may Christians, with a view to commending the cause which they have at heart; especially as the neglect of these must cause their good to be evil spoken of." Secret faithfulness in devotion is represented as the life-spring of all Christian energy, and occasions are watched for showing how those who seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness have usually the other things added in the largest measure.

I believe I may conscientiously state this as an outline of the system on which I wish to carry out my discipline; but I admit the imperfections which accompany its working, on my own part as well as the pupils'.—I remain, &c.

Wolvesey, March 29, 1853.

To the Rev.

JOHN SMITH.

DEAR SIR,-AS you are issuing a fourth reprint of my letter, I append some remarks upon the teaching of Common Things. This subject, for which we are indebted