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On the boys' side also it is considered that teachers should
give more attention in the gymnastic lesson to "personal" work
which caters for the physical needs of the different individuals in
a class, rather than spend so much time on the preconstructed
exercises of the pre-war syllabus, which were designed to suit
the hypothetical average child and were selected for their effects
on specific joints and muscles.
Secondary Schools for Girls.
In the Secondary Schools for Girls interest in educational dance
strongly influences the type and presentation of indoor work,
since it has a direct appeal to most adolescent girls.
In gymnastics we endeavour to educate the individual child,
and the pupils are allowed to feel that they all have a contribution
to make, a contribution which will vary according to their innate
ability, confidence and creativeness. They should be encouraged
to give of their best and to work to their limit, though not beyond
it. So often less than a child's best is accepted, with a resultant
lack of challenge and lowering of individual standard.
In addition to the provision of opportunities for experiment
and for developing their own activities, the question of challenge
is now taking on greater importance. It is hoped that girls will
be encouraged to go "all out" in an effort to discover previously
unknown capabilities entailing the maximum effort.
2. Games and Athletics.
The programme of outdoor activities has followed the pattern
of previous years. In some cases there still remains a tendency
in games periods to emphasise match play before the necessary
degree of skill has been acquired, with the result that many of the
less able performers obtain little enjoyment or physical benefit.
If every pupil is to have an equal chance of obtaining knowledge
of, and developing skill in athletics and the major games, a better
balance will need to be struck in games periods between playing
and practice. Inter-house, inter-school and inter-district matches
have again formed a considerable part of out-of-school activities
and the element of competition has added zest and stimulated
endeavour in an exhilarating and helpful manner.
Twenty-four boys and girls from the Borough were included
in the District Athletics Team at the County Sports held at Dover.
A Bromley girl was successful in one event (high jump) and a
number of "County Standards" were achieved, but general
performances were considered to be below those required for
competition in the English Schools' Championships.
Schools in the Borough have been well represented in the
various District and County Teams. Six boys secured places in