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96
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, 1953.
The following is the report of the Area Advisors of Physical
Education:—
1. General.
In the review of Physical Education in the Schools of the
Borough for the years 1948 and 1949 special mention was made of
the wider conception of physical activities, exemplified in childcentred
work and the individual approach and in informal methods
of coaching and guidance by the teacher. These features have now
been recognised as desirable by most schools throughout the country
and are more in line with present teaching methods observed in
other subjects of the curriculum. Whilst more generally accepted
by the teaching profession, there is a tendency for the conservative
lay-mind to regard the lessening of formal work, with its rigid
formations and imposed discipline, as detrimental to the educational
development of the individual and to the maintenance of standards.
The recent editions of Physical Education in the Primary School.
Parts I and II. published by the Ministry of Education, advocate
the newer approach which develops a stronger and more lasting
self-discipline and encourages self-reliance. Self-discipline properly
achieved should provide the teacher with a well occupied group of
interested children working quietly and steadily. In addition the
good teacher unobtrusively and skilfully guides and controls the
individual work of the children, who consequently very often attain
higher standards than were previously possible. The present policy
in Physical Education is thus found to promote more effectively the
physical development of the child.
Primary.—During 1953. physical activities in the Primary
Schools have received considerable stimulus from the welcome
introduction of "Planning the Programme." Part II of the Ministry
of Education publication referred to above. The first book for
Primary Schools. "Moving and Growing." dealt mainly with
general principles of physical growth and development, while the
second book gives more practical guidance for the teacher in
framing his lesson. The additional climbing apparatus installed
during the year has brought greater opportunity and increased the
scope of the work of the daily lesson. When the apparatus is used
regularly the beneficial effect of the strengthening work, particularly
on the shoulder girdle and back muscles, is illustrated by the
improved poise observed in the children. It will be understood
that these effects are more obvious when surplus garments are
discarded. If also shoes are changed for the lesson, complete
freedom of movement is possible and a sense of adventure on the
apparatus is cultivated. A very limited supply of plimsolls was
made available by the Kent Education Committee during the year.
Children not provided with suitable footwear owing to lack of