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Physical Exercises.
The 1933 Syllabus of the Board of Education is followed in
all Infant and Junior Schools and in some of the Senior Schools.
In certain Senior Schools, and in the Selective Central Schools,
more advanced work, including exercises with portable gymnastic
apparatus, is being taken.
On the whole the playgrounds are satisfactory for the purpose
of physical exercises. Some schools contain suitable halls in which
physical exercise lessons can be taken satisfactorily during inclement
weather, but certain schools lack suitable indoor accommodation
for physical training.
In general, suitable times have been allotted to physical training
in the time-tables of the schools. Following the recommendations
of the Organisers of Physical Training all schools have an adequate
supply of equipment, which is maintained at standard by requisition,
for following the 1933 Syllabus and more advanced work of
similar type, and some Senior Schools are equipped with portable
gymnastic apparatus. The removal of surplus clothing for the
physical exercise lesson is becoming a recognised feature of the
work and, indeed, in some schools is a well-established practice.
The attitude of the Head Teachers is a most pleasing feature
of the work. Head Teachers generally appreciate the importance
of physical training and are anxious to have it taught effectively.
It is pleasing to record that the teachers concerned with
physical training are keen and welcome help towards the improvement
of their lessons, the standard of which is rising steadily.
This attitude is typical not only of younger teachers but of older
teachers, many of whom merit commendation for their conscientious
teaching.
Organised Games.
Provision for organised games during school hours is made
in all Junior, Senior and Central Schools. For some years the
Authority has maintained a playing field at Ive Farm, on which
a gymnasium is nearing completion. Another playing field is
in preparation on the site of the old Ballast Pit off Oliver Road.
Some schools are situated inconveniently for Ive Farm and take
organised games on Wanstead Flats. A high degree of keenness
for games exists in the schools and recognised games are played
during the period on the games field.