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This has resulted in a marked improvement in the official
connection between all forms of Physical Training throughout the
area. Particularly, advance had been made, by Mr. Dixon, in
preparation for this extension of function, in organising throughout
1937 Leaders Classes so that a full and well developed programme
is operative now, and much help is being afforded to Juvenile
Organisations, who have also been granted use of the Authority's
schools and playgrounds for approved activities at the nominal rate
of 1/- per use.
The development of Physical Training in the schools of the
Authority has reached an advanced standard.
PROVISION OF MEALS.
Meals are provided for necessitous children. They are provided
at the following centres :—
St. Luke's Institute, Enfield.
Feeding Centre, Alma Road, Ponders End.
Bellside Dining Rooms, Enfield Wash.
Dining Rooms, St. Mark's Road, Bush Hill Park.
During the course of 1937 41,954 meals were provided free to
396 children. The number of dinners provided in 1936 was 42,657.
The arrangements commenced during 1935 for the provision
of milk to children free, and at id. for 1/3 pint, were continued.
During 1937 982,047 bottles of milk were provided and paid for,
and 88,288 bottles of milk were provided free to those children whose
circumstances were such that their parents could not afford to pay.
This compares with 892,743 bottles and 96,974 bottles respectively
during 1936. The milk was pasteurised and delivered in one-third
pint bottles, and drunk through a straw. Children receiving free
milk are examined twice a year by one of the School Medical Officers.
The average gain in weight amongst children having milk was about
six pounds during the year.
CO-OPERATION OF PARENTS.
It is very disappointing to note that this year the percentage of
parents who attended when their children were examined fell to 73.
This is between three and six per cent lower than it has been for the
past five years. The Education Committee provides for the school
children of Enfield facilities to improve the health of the children.
These facilities include routine medical inspection, dental treatment,
ophthalmic treatment, convalescent treatment, special examinations,
and medical advice. If the children are to benefit fully from the
advantages which are placed before them by the Education Committee
the co-operation of the parents must be obtained. It is extraordinary
that parents should realise the necessity for the general education