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106
and though it was not possible to carry out a project of this kind
during the present financial year, it is hoped that we shall be
more fortunate in this matter during the coming year.
Small apparatus training is being increasingly developed
as the various items of equipment become available. It is an
encouraging sight to see the delight of the child's adventuring
into a world of physical activity and achieving in consequence
a corresponding measure of self-confidence.
Senior Modern Departments. The work of our gymnasia
must of necessity provide a wide contribution to the education
of the child, particularly regarding a sense of discipline, concentration
and a quick response to command. Modern teaching
methods provide objective interests towards which most of the
exercises taken can have reference. On the boys' side, organised
games and athletics seem to predominate and on the girls' side,
major games, dancing and natural movement. Instead of
emphasis being put on to the organisation of the class as a whole,
emphasis is now centred on the smaller unit of ones, twos or
threes, giving scope for more rapid development according to
their physical ability. A higher standard of achievement .
generally has been noticeable throughout this period of experiment
and trial.
This year we have experienced the introduction of fourth
year pupils in our Modern Schools. Following up the line of
interest of the individual, and guided by their leisure time
activities, a more elastic scheme of work has been the means of
approach to this subject.
Physical Training Clothing and Shoes. A more regular
supply of physical training clothing and shoes is now possible
and is greatly appreciated. In order to make a more satisfactory
allocation than previously a survey of school stocks and needs
has been made so that in future, a fairer allocation might be
possible.
It is hoped eventually to equip each school fully with the
following items:—
(a) Junior and Infant Pupils below the age of eight years—Plimsolls.
(b) Junior Pupils over the age of eight years—Plimsolls, Shorts and
Singlets.
(c) Senior Pupils, Boys—Plimsolls, Shorts and Singlets, Football
Boots.
Senior Pupils, Girls—Plimsolls, Sports Blouses, Shorts or
Knickers, Hockey Shoes.
If the children are to obtain the maximum benefit from the
facilities provided, they must be suitably clothed whether it is
for the gymnasium, the school hall or on the playing field.