NRS-18701 | Observation Book [Wirrimah Public School]

Full description

The purpose of the observation book was for the Inspector to record general remarks about the management of the school, the relationships and discipline within it and the range and effectiveness of the teaching. The Regulations under the Public Schools Act, 1866 noted, “ The Inspectors remarks upon the state of the school visited by him, will be entered in the Observation Book of the school, which, as a School Record should be carefully preserved.  Entries therein are not to be erased or altered." (Regulations adopted by the Council of Education on 27 February 1867 s.83.)

The earliest entries in this volume are hand written and later entries made on pre-printed forms which were pasted into the Observation Book.  The form details the school and inspection date, which was normally only once a year.  The form is divided into three main areas: Organisation, Government and Instruction.  

Organisation pertains to school equipment including buildings, furniture and gardens, smoothness and effectiveness of general management and the standing of the school in relation to the general community.

Government concerns relations between staff and students, effectiveness of discipline in fostering ideals of conduct and stimulating independent thought and activity, and the socialising influence of the school on its pupils.

Instruction or general survey evaluated covered teaching methods and resources, preparation, general speech-training, teaching methods and the effectiveness in promoting intellectual growth and development, and an appreciation of higher cultural values.