THE SCHOOL OF SOCIOLOGY.
[To THE EDITOR ClY THE " SPEcr■Toz."] Sta,—Your known sympathy with well-considered charitable methods encourages us to ask you to find space for a few words on the objects and work of the School of Sociology, which has its offices at Denison House, Vauxhall Bridge Road. Social evils and social reforms are discussed everywhere, and there is no end to the schemes and the efforts set on foot and vigorously carried on by innumerable workers. But there is one aspect of this social fermentation which is frequently overlooked,—the preparation and fitness of those who are giving themselves to this important and difficult work. The perception of the need, and plans to meet it, are slowly spreading; too slowly, for while we delay much harm is being done by zeal which outruns knowledge. In one or two pro- vincial Universities schools for social education and training have been established; in London there are various oppor- tunities offered for study. Only a small minority of workers, or intending workers, at present make any attempt to obtain special preparation; perhaps it cannot be hoped that the majority will ever submit to serious and prolonged study of social conditions, or of history and theory. But there must be very many who would be glad to have some know- ledge, and especially some guidance on the practical side. The School of Sociology arranges lectures to meet the needs of beginners, and others for more advanced students ; and for those who are willing to undertake a year's study practical work, generally in the offices of the Charity Organisation Society, is planned in connexion with the lectures and classes. For those who are willing to enter, an examination is held at the close of the year's work, and a diploma granted to successful students. A good many students of the school are now actively engaged, some in paid posts, some as volunteers. The great distances of London probably deter many who would gladly avail themselves of easily accessible lectures, and, if the demand were large enough, other centres might be formed in various parts ; there is, indeed, already a proposal to establish a centre in the East End. But the cost has to be met ; educational schemes can seldom be made entirely self.. supporting, and the Committee are anxious for a twofold increase, of students on the one hand, and on the other of financial support from those who are desirous of seeing social reform proceed on sound lines.—We are, Sir, Sm., BERNA.RD BOBANQUET. E. G. PowELL.
C. S. Loci'.
IL HILL.
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