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In March of this year a report was received from the Department of Education and Science of a survey made
on physically handicapped children in normal schools. A considerable amount of detail and figures are contained in
this report, but the conclusion which is quoted is worthy of note:
CONCLUSION
It is the wish of many parents that their child should attend an ordinary school, both for social and
educational reasons. In Circular 276, issued on 25 June, 1954 by the Department of Education and Science it states
that "no handicapped pupil should be sent to a special school who can be satisfactorily educated in an ordinary
school". Where a special school is necessary, a day school is preferable if it offers a satisfactory and practical
solution.
It has been shown that 10,200 physically handicapped children are, in fact attending ordinary schools. For
some this may be the right placement but for others the more sheltered environment of the special school with smaller
classes, intensive medical and nursing care and a full range of therapies available may be more suitable. Those in the
special schools tend to be the most severely physically handicapped; many having multiple defects.
This survey by its very nature and the inclusion of multiple observers and many variables can only produce a
value judgement which cannot be standardised. It may, however, be considered to be an indication that further study
of the needs of physically handicapped children in ordinary schools might be appropriate."
As no Borough was identified local figures are not available for publication.
Two years have now elapsed since the separation of the Health and Welfare Departments, but liaison has been
maintained with what is now known as Social Services on a very happy and reciprocal basis, particularly with a free
exchange of information on handicapped pupils.
The report would be incomplete without an appreciative reference to the great co-operation and goodwill
which is extended to the School Health Service, by the Head Teachers and staff of schools within the Borough, when
medical examinations are carried out. This enables the maximum number of children to be seen, which is especially
to be remembered where real difficulties of accommodation exist.
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