which would have justified me in reprimanding the master to whom he referred.
Examinations.
Another
In the next sentence D'Eitel says the cause of overpressure in Hongkong is the multiplication of examinations, and the introduction of "the expired and Cambridge Local want."
As regards Victoria College, there has been since 1882 no increase in the number of Exams. Introduced an examination in July to test the work of the previous half. "Gloss, and to check the pernicious habit" otherwise common in Hongkong and England, of cramming a year's work into the last quarter. The Annual Exam takes place in January at the coolest time of the year. Two exams are the least granted that, in my opinion, will ensure efficiency in school teaching.
The dozen boys who go in for the Oxford Local do not sit for the half-yearly Exam; thus, there is not, even in their case, much "cramming" for the exam. The boys have not to study for the Oxford Local in addition to Class work, the subjects for the First Class being identical with those required each year by the Oxford Delegates.
Drill.
The advantages of Drill suggested at the end of D'Eitel's Report (l.c.) are self-evident.
Doubt, however, whether one drill instructor would undertake 100 boys at a lesson, and even with that number, it would take 4½ hours daily to give each boy his daily exercise of half an hour.
I am not in a position in England to discuss the expense and other details connected with this suggestion.
I have the honour to be,
Your most obedient servant,
Francis Wright,
Headmaster,
Victoria College, Hongkong, May.