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72
provision of cupboards and circulation space, play a large part in
contributing to the high morale of children and teachers alike.
Two difficulties were encountered, the pressure on places and
the transport of totally helpless children.
The first difficulty was foreseen. It is generally accepted that
provision increases demand. Long before Woodbrook was ready
it was noted that many more oases were being brought forward
for admission than in previous years. Teachers in special schools
were prepared to "hold on to a child until Woodbrook is ready",
especially if parents were vocal against such a transfer. Furthermore,
parents of children under 5 pressed for their children to
start at "the new school in Beckenham as soon as possible".
The pressure for places had to be considered against the knowledge
that there would be a delay of two years before sufficient
vacancies were available at the Adult Training Centre to take on
the Woodbrook school leavers.
In spite of these difficulties every child reported to the Section
by July, 1969, was found a place at Woodbrook and soon the
total number of children reached 100 against 80 places. The
excess was divided equally between the school proper and the
Special Care Unit where 10 children had to attend part-time to
enable as fair a distribution of this provision as possible.
The second difficulty was not foreseen. The Council had
agreed a special vehicle to transport the totally helpless children,
numbering 13, who cannot travel by coach. The estimated period
between placing the order and delivery of the "ambulance" was
in reality doubled. Fortunately, the Bromley Society for Mentally
Handicapped Children stepped into the breach and organised a
fleet of voluntary cars to bring these children to Woodbrook.
The school became part of the local community with other
care-giving bodies, including the churches, taking a keen interest.
The parents, delighted with the new premises, attend open days
and monthly meetings to discuss subjects of common interest.
The mental health social workers provide family support
and keep in close touch with the head teacher and her staff. The