View report page

156
tory. At present there is no provision for these children,
and nothing can be done beyond recommending for the
younger ones an extra term or two in the Infants' Department,
which is far from an ideal arrangement for the child
concerned, the other children, or the teachers. Many of the
children if suitably treated would regain the average
standard. As it is, they either wade through their school
life considerably behind children of their own age, or they
get so far behind that they have ultimately to be certified
as feeble-minded. The best method of treating the dull
and backward child is by the provision of special classes
under open-air conditions, with teachers specially trained
and interested in the dull and backward child. The defect
in many cases is in some cases more physical than mental,
the removal of adenoids, cure of anaemia, good feeding, and
regular rest often changing a delicate dull and backward
child into a healthy normal one.
Epileptic Children.—Cases of severe epilepsy are best
dealt with by residential institutions. The Willesden Education
Authority does not maintain any such institution, but
in certain cases pays for the maintenance of children at
epileptic colonies or other recognised institutions. Mild
cases sometimes only have fits during the night, and such
children can attend an ordinary elementary school.
Great difficulty has been experienced in finding institutions
which will take the badly mentally-deficient epileptic
children. Such cases, however, now come under the care
of the Middlesex County. Council.
The Physically Defective.—One school is maintained
by the Authority for this class of children, viz.:—
Name of School. Effective accommodation, No. on roll, No. awaiting admission,
Furness Road, Physically Defective 69 75 46