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158
examinations to the school nurses is not considered feasible because
of their increasing other commitments. A number of physically
handicapped children are partially hearing as well as physically
disabled so that this service will be vital to any special school for
the physically handicapped.
The reports show that a survey this year has indicated the
ages and educational provision for 130 hearing impaired children
in the Borough, and that nursery and infant units ihave been
established in two primary schools. The appointment of additional
Teachers of the Deaf will enable more visits to be paid to schools
where there are children with defective hearing, as well as to
support the new unit which, it is hoped, will open in September,
1968. Close liaison is being maintained with Hospital Audiology
Clinics in the Greater London area.
Physically Handicapped Pupils
Although categories of children with handicaps and disabilities
are recognised for administrative convenience, many pupils have
more than one disability. A number attend ordinary schools but
for most special educational provision is necessary. Parent counselling
is very necessary and close co-operation between the medical
and education services. The majority are likely to need community
care for the rest of their lives and in an Authority with a comprehensive
Welfare Service, close liaison between this Service and the
School Medical Service is essential tp provide for these young
persons when they return to home adequate community care.
It is hoped that in the near future, by joint arrangement, plans
for a special school for physically handicapped will be developed.
Educationally Subnormal Children
The reports of the activities of the three Special Schools show
developments of great interest, including increased swimming
facilities, the setting up of an adventure playground, and the use of
a minibus provided by the Variety Club of Great Britain to enable
pupils to visit factories, firms and places of interest.
I wish to pay tribute to the wonderful assistance I have had
from Dr. Carter-Locke in these formative years of the new
Borough. He has established permanent links of co-operation
with the Head Teachers and with the Education Department and
has been responsible for the detailed day-to-day administration of
the School Health Service. My thanks are also due to the Chief
Administrative Officer and to the staff of the School Health Sectionand
to the many who have contributed to this report.
In conclusion, I would again thank the Chairman and members
of the Committee for their sympathetic consideration and
suDoort to schemes for the betterment of the School Health Service,
and in particular Mr. Welbourne, the Chief Education Officer, his