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6
A comparison of the 1937 figures with those for 1936 shows
a considerable reduction in the percentage total of the bad
group, a slight reduction in the percentage total in the slightly
sub-normal group, and a slight increase in the normal and
excellent groups. The variation in these figures is, I think,
to be explained in two ways. There is first, the personal factor
in assessment, and secondly the nutrition of our school children
is generally good, and there is a gradual improvement in
nutrition in the two sub-normal groups. This is confirmed by
examinations and contacts other than those routine ones.
Arrangements for supplying milk during the school term
continue generally to work satisfactorily. The arrangements
for supplying during school holidays are, however, not so satisfactory.
Many children fail to attend to obtain the milk.
The milk supplied under the Milk in Schools Scheme to
schools in the area coming within the scope of the scheme, is
required to be milk designated as Pasteurised, and treated in
accordance with the provision of the Milk (Special Designations)
Order, 1936.
Provision of Meals, Milk and Malt and Oil.
Milk has been issued on the School Medical Officer's certificate
to 119 children during the year, the issue being two
1/3 pint bottles per day. In the case of children suffering from
a greater degree of malnourishment, meals have also been
provided, particularly at the Northumberland Heath School
Canteen and to a lesser degree at the Picardy Central School
Domestic Subjects Centre.

At the end of the year a total of 245 children were receiving
free milk at school.
Extension of provision of facilities for having meals at
school would be of undoubted benefit, and would simplify the
attempts in certain cases, of the School Medical Service to
supplement the feeding of ill-nourished children who come under
observation.