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(4) Phobic Children
The number of such children attending the Centre remains fairly
constant, and the rehabilitation of these children frequently proves a
lengthy and difficult process. Details of attendances are as follows:-
January 7 children (6 girls, 1 boy). December 5 children (4 girls, 1 boy)
(5) The Assessment Unit:
In September 1970 an assessment unit for children aged 5-7 years was
opened. The purpose of the unit is to assess the special needs of young
children who might be expected to find it difficult to adjust to the life of the
ordinary infant school with its larger classes, and to make special provision
for these needs. Mrs. Williams, Educational Psychologist, has taken a
special interest in the unit and in the selection of children likely to benefit
from placement there. Particular attention has been paid to the language
development of the children. Although it is much too early to make an
adequate appraisal of the work of the unit the initial evidence is that the
selection of the children attending has been very successful, and that the
work of the unit is likely to prevent the children involved from developing
educational difficulties later on. It should be emphasised that although the
unit is at present sited in Shaftesbury School it functions relatively
autonomously, and is not designed to cater for E.S.N. children.
(6) Class 6, Chantry School:
This small unit for children informally assessed as emotionally
disturbed was also opened in September 1970. It caters for children of
junior school age and will aim at helping such children to return to normal
schooling as quickly as possible, although other provision, e.g. residential
special school may be necessary in some cases. The teacher maintains close
links with the staff of the Child Guidance Centre, and regular meetings are
held to discuss the progress of the children.
(7) Remedial Teaching:
The appointment of Mrs. Zurawski as Peripatetic Remedial Teacher
has done a great deal of help with the problem of providing appropriate
remedial teaching for children in need of it. In order to make the best use of
her special knowledge, Mrs. Zurawski has spent most of her time visiting
schools and advising teachers about teaching methods. She has also
organised courses for teachers on the diagnosis and treatment of learning
difficulties. Outside speakers have also visited Harrow and lectured to
teachers on various aspects of remedial work. In addition Mrs. Zurawski
has undertaken a limited amount of individual teaching herself.
Mrs. Newton has also continued to provide remedial teaching either
individually or in small groups, in addition to her work with phobic
children. The result of this increased provision is that it has only been
necessary to recommend one child for special tuition outside the School
Psychological Service.