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94
PHYSICAL TRAINING.
In September, 1935, the Education Committee appointed an
organiser of physical training, whose duty it will be to supervise
the physical training of the children throughout the elementary
schools, and instruct the teachers in the latest methods of physical
training.
PROVISION OF MEALS.
Meals are provided for necessitous children. Until July, 1935,
the arrangements were made by the Care Committee, but subsequent
to that date the arrangements were taken over by the
Education Committee itself and are now in the hands of the " Provision
of Meals Sub-Committee."
During the year 33,949 dinners were provided.
During 1935 arrangements were made for the provision of milk
to children at ½d. for one-third pint. The children took advantage
of the arrangement to such an extent that 917,234 bottles of milk
were provided and paid for ; in addition to which 76,265 bottles of
milk were provided free to those children whose circumstances
were such that their parents could not afford to pay. The milk
supplied was in every case pasteurised, regularly tested by the
Public Health Department to see that it conformed to the prescribed
standard for pasteurised milk, and was delivered in one-third
pint bottles and drunk through a straw. Those children who are
receiving milk free of charge will be examined by one of the Medical
Officers of the Staff in order that the necessity may be ascertained
and the condition of the children observed.
CO-OPERATION OF PARENTS.
Once again 76 per cent, of the children examined at Routine
Inspection were accompanied by their parents. This figure has
shown but little variation during past years, and although it may be
considered as satisfactory, it might well be improved. Whilst I
realise that home duties prevent some parents from attending when
their children are examined, I do not think it can be considered to
account for the 24 per cent, who failed to attend. Parents should
realise the importance of this routine examination and take full
advantage of it. The Medical Officer present is always prepared
to explain to parents the significance of such defects as may be
found to be present and to answer such questions concerning the wellbeing
and hygienic care of their children as they may care to ask.
The value to public health of routine inspection cannot be exaggerated.
It would be far better if we could interview personally
every parent rather than send a short note to the 24 per cent, who
are absent, explaining what defects have been found. I would take