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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
I am indebted to the Physical Education Advisers,
Mr. J. Hopkins and Miss E. A. Osgathorp for the following
report:—
The selection tests, G.C.E., College of Preceptors and
R.S.A. examinations have, in recent years, been given so
much publicity that some school timetables in the County
have become overweighted with examination subjects. Fortunately
most of the Headteachers in the Borough of Bexley
believe that to educate a child in the widest sense, time must
be found for artistic, creative, and physical activities.
In spite of having very limited time at their disposal, the
teachers concerned have worked to develop skill in gymnastics,
dance, games, athletics and swimming. At infant,
junior and secondary school levels a good standard has been
maintained, and Upton Primary School was one of six schools
who contributed to a film on Junior Gymnastics in Kent
schools.
Most of the infant, primary and secondary girls' schools
realise the importance of creative physical activity and modern
educational dance forms an imporant part of the physical
education programme. Some interesting work takes place in
the Borough and many schools are helped by the services
of a gifted accompanist.
Many schools are attempting to offer the older secondary
children a bridge from school to adult clubs by introducing
recreative club activities into the curriculum. The choice
ranges widely from sailing and canoeing, to fencing, archery,
badminton and table tennis. This policy is commendable.
It involves a great deal of extra work on behalf of the staff
particularly out of school hours. The willingness of some of
the Borough's teachers to undertake this voluntary work is
appreciated. In particular Westwood Secondary School and
Bexley Technical High School for Girls should be congratulated
on the liberal programme they offer to their pupils.
All these activities require apparatus and equipment
and the Borough has been very generous in its provision.
Suitable dress for the children taking part is essential—
clothing in which the body can breathe freely and move
without restriction, and most parents are co-operative and
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