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group gave an audience-participating performance, all of which
gave much pleasure and contributed to their education.
The whole staff continued to work hard in order to give
these children the greatest possible help towards fitting into the
general community.
Woodbrook School
Headteacher: Mrs. S. I. Walton
Deputy Headteacher: Mrs. V. A. Harvey
9 Teachers
2 Welfare Assistants
1 Physiotherapist—part-time
In April, 1971 the responsibility of Woodbrook School was
transferred from the Mental Health Section to the Education
Department. The recognition of the educability of the handicapped
pupils attending this school will give renewed enthusiasm
to work for their needs.
During the year Woodbrook lost the valuable services of Dr.
Syrop who is missed by both staff and pupils who often ask after
her.
The pressure on places was a continued difficulty. There were
110 children on the register in January, 1971. During the year
five children were transferred to special classes in infants schools,
two children went to Astley Adult Training Centre and three
children were sent to residential schools. There were five new
entrants in September, 1971.
The Special Care Unit continued to function as previously
with aggressive and hyperactive children in one room, and the
totally helpless in the other.
Routine annual medical inspections were carried out during
the year. These were arranged with an opportunity system which
provided useful contact with the parents and the time to discuss
problems and give advice.
Speech therapy is provided but it has not been possible to fill
the established post due to a national dearth of Speech Therapists.
The physiotherapist continues to carry out her essential and
difficult job with enthusiasm.
It is obvious from meeting the children how competently the
staff are helping each individual child to develop to his or her
utmost potential.