36 THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

conditions of entrance, whilst at Oxford the Hebdomadal
Council are also recommending new regulations.
Let us take the proposals of the Cambridge Syndicate
first. They suggest that the examination should consist
of three compulsory groups :—
1. Languages.—Two languages to be compulsory.
2. English.—Including History and Divinity (or an
alternative).
3. Mathematics and Science.
““ A paper shall be set in each of the subjects :—
“(1) Arithmetic and Algebra, (2) Geometry, and (3)
Physics and Chemistry or Experimental Mechanics.
‘“ A candidate must take the two mathematical papers,
and may take the paper in experimental science. A
pass in the group shall be determined by the aggregate
marks obtained on the papers taken.”
Such a syllabus shows clearly the value that the great
and ancient University of Cambridge attaches to the
value of science in general education!
Science certainly receives some recognition, and
doubtless the Syndicate considers that the Cinderella
“ Science” should be grateful for any morsels, however
small. Unfortunately these morsels are not only devoid
 of nutriment but are indigestible.
What will be the effect of such proposals on the
teaching of science in schools? The clever boy will be
able to get sufficient marks in mathematics alone to
qualify in the group, and consequently will not trouble
to take up science. The dull boy will be passed over
to the science department in order to cram up sufficient
science to get the required number of marks in the group.
The energies of public school science masters will thus
be employed in doing useless work, because for this type
of boy « formal science” is frequently unsuitable: no
time will be available for the valuable work which
really is their function.