View report page

42
Organised Games.
With regard to the Organised Games lessons, it is now felt that
most teachers are more familiar with intensive training methods,
making use of the maximum amount of apparatus and catering for all
pupils during the lesson. This has greatly increased the interest and
enthusiasm of the children. Organised Games out of school hours,
including Saturday mornings, have been re-introduced for the first
time since the outbreak of war.
Athletics.
As foreshadowed in the Annual Report for 1942, an Athletics
Scheme on the "All-in" principle was issued to the schools in the
Spring of 1943. The Scheme was originally intended for children in
Senior Schools, but such was the enthusiasm of the Junior Schools'
staffs that almost every school Sports Day in the Borough was conducted
on this principle. It was particularly gratifying to the
Organisers on these occasions to see every child, with the exception
of those medically unfit, taking part in and enjoying the School Sports.
It is hoped that in future seasons the full application of the Scheme
will also result in the regular coaching and training of each child over
a period leading up to the Sports Day.
Swimming.
The number of children who could benefit from swimming instruction
has again been limited owing to the continued closure of Mattison
Road Bath. Less accommodation was available in 1943 than in
previous years for Hornsey school-children at Western Road Bath,
Wood Green. Some classes attended at the Hornsey Open Air Pool
and some children from two schools were catered for at Hornsey Road
Bath. Islington. The inclusive total of 8,397 attendances throughout
the season represents approximately 466 children only who received
regular swimming instruction. The need for indoor swimming baths
designed for instruction purposes is urgent, and it is hoped that Postwar
Planning Schemes will include the provision of more than one
such bath.
It is understood that the Mattison Road Bath will be available
for use by the schools in 1944.
Gymnasia Floors.
The gymnasia floors at the Campsbourne, and North and South
Harringay Schools have been washed and treated with a special Scandinavian
varnish during the season. Apart from preserving the maple
floors, -this treatment has improved the surface by making it non-skid
as well as more hygienic. Similar treatment is to be carried out at
Highgate Council School.
Secondary Schools.
The secondary schools have been visited at regular intervals and
demonstration lessons have been given to the men teachers who are
endeavouring to carry on the work of the Physical Training Specialists
now enlisted in H.M. Forces. Head and assistant masters and
mistresses have expressed their appreciation of the advice and assistance
given during these visits.