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From the above it will be seen that there were no admissions for
debility and malnutrition. This re-emphasises the trend noted in
previous years towards a satisfactory standard of nutrition among
school children. In consequence the evolution is now complete and
the school has become truly a school for the physically handicapped.
This has now been officially recognised by the recommendation to
drop the title of 'Open Air School' in favour of 'Benton School,'
and surrounding authorities are beginning to seek admission for suitable
cases from their areas."
Cerebral Palsy Unit.
Dr. D. L. Woolf, Consultant in Physical Medicine to the Cerebral
Palsy Unit, reports as follows:—
"The Unit is now well established. The recently acquired cine
camera will be of great assistance in the clinical assessment of the
children admitted.
In December 1956, there were 21 children on Roll, 11 males and
10 females. During the year 14 new cases were referred by the School
Medical Officer with a view to admission, 7 of whom were accepted,
the remainder were considered unsuitable to benefit from combined
physical and educational instruction. 4 children were discharged after
a reasonable trial period due to their unsuitability, and 1 child was
admitted to a Residential School.
A recent assessment of children on Roll showed 25 per cent had
a mild physical disability, 25 per cent were moderately affected and
50 per cent were severely disabled.
The Medical side of the Unit continues to work in close liaison
with the Head Teacher and her staff.
In conclusion, thanks are recorded to the Ancillary Medical Staff
for their assistance during the past year."
Dr. D. M. B. Gross, Medical Officer in Charge, makes the following
report:—
"The Unit opened in May 1955 and during 1956 continued to
settle down to its functions. There were 21 children on roll, 11 male
and 10 female. During the year 14 new cases were examined with
a view to admission; of these 7 were accepted and came from the
following areas:—
Ilford 2
Walthamstow 1
South East Essex 3
Mid Essex 1 (on waiting list)
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The 7 children rejected with the reason for rejection, and their
Authorities, were:—
Ilford 2 (a) May prove suitable for Benton School
when 5 years old.
(b) Suitably placed in private day school.
Romford 1 Mental retardation. Not suffering from
cerebral palsy.
South Essex 4 (a) Fit for P.H. school when 5 years old.
(b) Due to go into hospital for prolonged
treatment. To be reviewed on discharge.
(c) Fit for ordinary school.
(d) May prove ineducable. For review in
1 year.
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