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The group of "below average "children includes those already
attending the E.S.N., who were retested during the year as well as
a large group found to need E.S.N, schooling, although still attending
normal schools. The provision of accommodation of these
children is inadequate for the numbers in need, and there is a long
waiting list. The difficulty of placing a child in the E.S.N, school
has been found to be a cause of apathy among teachers over reporting
such children.
From the 241 children tested by the Psychologist 37 boys and
32 girls were referred to the Psychiatrist for interview and possible
treatment.
The remaining children had difficulties which had been pro-'
voked by unskilled handling at home, or which were mainly educational.
Some advice to parents or teachers was usually found to
produce satisfactory results. Twenty-three children were given
individual special coaching by the Psychologist, who also taught two
groups of backward readers in schools.
Special classes to deal with backward children are still greatly
needed, but both lack of staff and lack of accommodation prevent
their formation.
In the course of her work the Psychologist paid 144 visits to
schools, allocated as follows :—

Three children were seen at home.
During the year the Psychologist has given two courses of
lectures to teachers on "Activities in Schools" and "The Teaching
of Reading." The attendance at these lectures reflects the interest
and enthusiasm of Infant and Junior School staffs. Talks have also
been given to Parent-Teacher Associations and other interested
groups in the Borough.