VPRS 3859 Subsidized Schools Correspondence Files

Full description

The system of subsidised schools grew out of the educational needs of families in areas of the state too remote and isolated to support a school. The system, already operating in the NSW Education Department, of subsidising the teacher's salary in certain special cases was seen as being a reasonable proposition. The proposal that the arrangement, based on the NSW system, should be introduced was approved by Cabinet on Nov 24, 1913. The Regulations, approved by the Governor in Council on May 13, 1914, allowed for the subsidy of five pounds per child per annum to be paid to the teacher employed by the parents. The number of children could be no fewer than four over five years of age who lived not less than six miles from the nearest school and for whom the system of conveyance could not operate. The qualifications for the teachers were that they be over 18 years of age and be certified as competent by the District Inspector or to have passed a written examination and have obtained satisfactory teaching experience as attested to by a Head Teacher of a State School. Five hours of secular instruction were to be given each day, records were to be kept and returns forwarded to the Department. The schools were also subject to visits and reports by the District Inspector.

In 1950, the shortage of teachers was so acute that the residence restriction was reduced from six miles to five miles and the subsidy raised to 25pounds per pupil to a limit of 125 pounds per annum. The system of subsidised schools was abandoned and the Regulation rescinded in 1951.

This series contains a general file relating to the Subsidised Schools scheme as well as files relating to individual schools. This general file contains copies of the Regulations, Hansard reports, examples of application forms, enquiries and applications from teachers to teach at a subsidised school and correspondence relating to the level of the subsidy available.

This series does not contain files for all subsidised schools that existed. Some files relate to enquiries made regarding the establishment of a school. Other early papers relating to this scheme may be found in other correspondence series.

On the existing files as listed there is correspondence from people in isolated areas asking for assistance for the education of their children, applications for a school listing the names and ages of the children, details regarding suitable accommodation for a school, correspondence with and about prospective teachers including character references and reports from District Inspectors and correspondence regarding the level and payment of the subsidy. Some files include the pupil register.