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68
ventilation which is mainly provided for by the glazed doors opening
on the verandahs but to allow the entrance of the brightening rays
of sunshine. Artificial lighting is by electricity.
Heating is by means of a low pressure system, the pipes being
arranged in a parallel fashion underneath a special flooring of
Granwood blocks which are unaffected by heat, and which give a
smooth non-slippery surface.
The internal walls of the class-rooms and halls are finished
to a height of 3 ft. 6 inches with salt-glazed bricks.
There are four cloakrooms, two at each end adjoining the
assembly halls and separated from them by the entrance halls.
The cloakrooms are fitted with a framework of hot water pipes to
which the clothes-pegs are clipped. White glazed wash-hand
basins in sufficient number are fitted in the cloakrooms.
The sanitary conveniences are arranged in a special way with
the W.C's placed back to back with a narrow enclosed space between
containing all the flushing cisterns. In this enclosed space a stove
is provided so that the cisterns can obtain protection during frost.
No description need be given of the mode of construction of
the external walls, but it may be said that though the appearance
is unusual on account of the north lights the finish is very pleasing,
particularly at the east and west fronts where the halls are situated.
But the main exterior feature of the school are the quadrangles
which are laid out to form beautiful gardens in the formal style
with ornamental plinths in the centre. These quadrangles give a
feeling of beauty and restfulness which have been lacking previously
in public elementary schools. Such a great improvement in the
surroundings of the school, which immediately impresses the adult
visitor, must have a marked educational effect on the children
who daily are associated with these pleasant conditions of school
life.
The children attending this school, as those who attend the
new schools of a similar type at Horsenden Lane and Wood End,
must consider themselves more fortunate than their fellows in the
older schools. It will be interesting to see in later years how
much the improved conditions lead to their improved health.