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20
ST LUKE' S SCHOOL FOR TOE PARTIALLY SIGHTED
Miss Rundle, the Headmistress, reports that during 1964 steady progress
continued in all aspects of school activities. The children's
wide range of ability and visual acuity present many problems but these
are dealt with individually as far as possible, seeking to meet the
children's own particular needs.
Various educational excursions were made during the year including
visits to the London Zoo, Hampton Court, the Greenwich Museum, etc. For
many of the children home and school are the only aspect of life with
which thay are familiar. It is, therefore, very necessary to widen
their interests and experiences as much as possible.
A group of children attended swimming regularly with the result
that four children gained their 400 yards certificates. Visually handicapped
children are generally lacking in self-confidence and it takes a
long time for them to build up sufficient confidence to swim a length
of the baths but when able to do this they derive a great sense of
achievement. In this connection the older children are encouraged to
travel to and from school on their own with the object of helping them
to become independent when they leave school. It is very important to
bridge the gap between school and work.
One pupil who was able to take the Transfer Test was allocated a
grammar school place. It was thought to be to his advantage to transfer
him to Exhall Grange School, Coventry, where there is a grammar school
for partially sighted children.
A visiting teacher began Braille lessons for a severely handicapped
older pupil. It is hoped that this will enable the pupil to undertake
some form of training suitable for blind people. Regrettably as yet,
there is no specialised training for the partially sighted.
The Ophthalmologist's examination revealed two cases where children
had failed to keep their appointments at the Eye Dnit. These have now
been followed up. The School Medical Officer visited each term and his
help and interest are much appreciated.
Children on Roll 31.12.64 14
Left school during the year 2
Admissions 2
Transferred to Grammar School 1