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107
Playgrounds and Playing Fields. Owing to difficulties of
transport, it was not possible to arrange for playing field accommodation,
for some of our Primary Schools. As these schools,
small in number, have very limited playground space, it is hoped
that the coming year will see this matter rectified.
Playing field accommodation in the area is of very high
standard and the work of the groundsmen on the whole is
extremely helpful and satisfactory. Pitches must be kept well
marked if the work of the teachers is to be educational and not
just the means of providing a short period of exercises. Games
must be well taught and well coached if they are to have the
necessary carry-over value into after-school life.
Summer games do not fare quite so well as the winter games,
owing to the lack of tennis facilities, particularly for Modern
Girls' Departments. In addition to cricket, tennis is also an
asset socially for boys who do not wish to admit ignorance of
this game when confronted by their more fortunate brothers in
youth clubs and fellowships.
Applications for the use of games facilities for youth
associations have been more than doubled this year, with the
result that with pitches badly worn, no further applications could
be accepted towards the end of the season. Out of 270 occasions
when pitches were available throughout the winter season, on
one playing field alone only 33 occasions were possible when a
pitch was not in use.
Playground surfaces are gradually being restored to pre-war
condition. Burnt Ash School has been severely handicapped by
defective playground conditions for a very long period and has
been in some degree confined to indoor space. Outdoor playground
work can now be developed to the great satisfaction of all
departments.
Swimming. Through the kind co-operation of the Baths
Department, it has been once again possible to make arrangements
for swimming facilities for Modern Schools and County
Primary Schools with senior pupils on the roll.
Eleven classes for senior girls were possible at the Open Air
Pool and six at Downham Bath. For boys, eight classes were
arranged at the Open Air Pool and six at Downham Bath. It
is interesting to note the keeness of children and staff at the
Downham covered bath where application has been granted for
similar facilities to be carried on throughout the winter season.
This is actually the first instance of school swimming instruction