7

E.—l

KINDERGARTEN SCHOOLS. While the Department does not undertake the establishment of kindergarten schools, it has for some years past rendered financial assistance by way of subsidy and capitation to kindergarten schools conducted by recognized kindergarten associations. To obtain recognition by the Department an association must satisfy the Department that its business is not conducted for private profit, that the school in respect to which the payment of grants is desired is necessary in the locality in which it is situated, that the building and equipment are suitable, that the teaching staff is adequate and the instruction efficient. No fees shall be payable by pupils attending a recognized kindergarten school. Capitation payable is limited to £4 for each pupil in average attendance, and £l ss. for every £l raised by voluntary contributions and expended on the maintenance of the schools during any year. In addition, subsidies not exceeding £l for £l may be paid on voluntary contributions raised by an association and expended on buildings, sites, and equipment approved by the Minister of Education. During 1928 seven associations were recognized by the Department, and a sum of £4,331 was paid as capitation and £967 as building subsidy. The number of pupils in attendance at schools conducted in 1928 by the recognized associations, and the average attendance of such pupils, were as follows : — A ... Pupils on Roll Average Attendance, Association. , r , c moo at end of 1928. 1928. Auckland .. .. .. .. 420 291 Hastings .. .. .. .. 37 26 Hutt Valley .. .. . . 59 45 Wellington .. .. .. 303 238 Christchurch .. .. .. 325 230 Dunedin .. .. .. .. 322 233 Invercargill .. .. .. 94 78 1,560 1,141