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295
During the year 27 children were admitted, and 21 left. On
December 31st, 1938, there were 136 children on the roll—94 boys
and 42 girls. I have again to record a very gratifying level of
attendance for the year—89%.
It is very pleasing to be able to report on the great strides
that the teaching of reading has made in the past year. We have
many fluent readers in the school, and many are borrowers from
the Public Libraries. Each class now has its own little library.
The teaching of physical drill is still very popular and it would
surprise many to see what our children can do in this subject.
We have now reached the stage when children have to be restrained
in their activities, where formerly they needed encouragement.
Woodwork is now the most popular subject. 36 boys receive
instruction weekly in this most useful part of the curriculum. Very
useful models for the home have been made.
We have now started a small boot-repairing class, and it is
hoped soon to extend this, so as to include a greater number of boys.
Four happy years have been spent at Mitcham Road and we
are shortly moving to new premises at Warwick Road, where we
hope to have more scope for our activities, among surroundings
which are far more congenial than our present ones.
The provision of excellent hot mid-day meals continues to be
a very important factor in building up the children's physical
condition and many thanks are again due to the Education Committee
for their provision.
I must once more record my appreciation of the kindly interest
shown by the staff and scholars of John Ruskin School."
PHYSICAL TRAINING IN SCHOOLS.
Detailed reports have been presented by the Assistant Inspector
of School and the Organiser of Physical Training to the Education
Committee, and the following is only a precis of the reports.
Boys.
During the past year efficient provision of physical education
and recreation has been maintained, and certain important advances