Author(s): Geoff Pryor

General

In 1878 a District inspector asserted that "Chas Long, owing to a weakness of sight which is inherent, will not make a successful teacher". He later added that "it would be a mistake to allow C. Long to become a teacher". This was not an audacious beginning for a career in teaching. Charles Long was born with albinism and suffered from poor eyesight. He went on to confound his critics with high academic results in teacher-training certificates and a Master of Arts degree. With persistence and creative determination his career ranged from head teacher, teachers' college lecturer, school inspector to the new position of Editor of Victorian Education Department publications including the highly successful School Paper, Education Gazette and the well-known Victorian Readers. This largely ignored Victorian educationist was a close confidante and friend of the widely acclaimed Frank Tate, who was appointed as the Director of Education in 1902.