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Originally Croydon had experimented with a form of selective
inspection. In 1905 measurements of height and weight were made
in selected schools in the hope that such preliminary investigations
might reduce the number of children "concerning whom an
expert medical opinion was desirable" to 25% of the total. The
current Report includes a summary of an experiment in selection
from which I must conclude that at present the general inspection
of all children is to be preferred to the selective
examination of a smaller number.
Dental Health
In 1905, defective teeth were found amongst 75% of the
children who were medically examined. Although this figure is
not strictly comparable, the Principal School Dental Officer's
observation that 33. 5% of the children inspected last year were
referred for treatment does indicate the improvement which has
taken place, especially since it continues the downward trend of
recent years. Nevertheless determined dental health education
will be necessary to counter the rising consumption of refined
sugar which is an important factor in the aetiology of dental
caries.
Health Education
The very first annual report to the Education Committee drew
attention to the need for hygiene and the simple rules of health
to be taught in schools. The view was expressed that teachers
should be taught hygiene and pass an examination in the subject.
It is disappointing that even today, health education is not a
compulsory subject in the examinations at some Teacher Training
Colleges. In Croydon we enjoy the confidence of most teachers
and I am convinced that this comment from 1904 is just as
apposite today:- "Until the whole subject is grasped by the
teachers very little can be done, as the appointment of mere
peripatetic instructors will have comparatively little effect on
the habits of the children and on the school atmosphere". During
1964 preliminary discussions between officers of the Health and
Education Departments have attempted to define a comprehensive
programme of health education which could be integrated into the
general life of the schools.
Handicapped Pupils
In 1907 a special auxiliary class for backward children was
created at Vthitehorse Road and after a transfer to Grange Wood,
this became St. Christopher's School for educationally subnormal
pupils. This year the Head Master draws attention to the need
for more day places for children in this category and this is a
matter which must command the urgent attention of the new
Borough. Other forms of learning difficulty are now recognised
and these are usually referred by the medical officer to the
School Psychological Service for further investigation.