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51
visual methods, making the best use in conditions of good illumination
of the sight available. It is essential that a good and speedy
optical service be available, and regular clinical supervision from
the ophthalmic point of view. Annual medical inspection of each
child is also valuable.
"The best aid to seeing for the partially sighted child is a good
standard of even illumination. The rooms should be well lit
naturally and artificially—care being taken to avoid glare. Walls
and ceilings should be in light shades with preferably a matt surface.
An artificial lighting standard of at least 35 foot candles evenly
distributed is essential for rooms where close vision work is done
by partially sighted children, falling to 15 foot candles for assembly
halls, etc. The blackboards used by the teachers should be well
illuminated and free from reflection. If tube lighting is used, the
standard of illumination should be checked periodically as tubes
decrease in efficiency with use.
"It is essential that a thorough check on the hearing of each
partially sighted child should be made soon after admission, and a
biennial group audiometric test as a routine during school life.
"The special ophthalmic sessions held at the school in December
showed that the range of visual acuity (Snellen) after correction
was as follows:—
7 children with acuity less than 6/60
13 „ „ „ of 6/60
11 „ „ „ 6/36
5 „ „ „ „ 6/24
8 „ „ „ „ 6/18
12 children had monocular vision only.
" Two children were recommended for transfer to ordinary
school, and there is one child awaiting placement in a school for the
blind.
"As in previous years, the ophthalmic supervision has been
well maintained. Dr. I. Gregory, M.B., D.O.M.S., has made two
visits to the school for the purpose of examinations, and has given
much helpful advice with certain selected cases. The medical staff
at the Eye Clinic have also made regular ophthalmic examinations,
whilst the optician (Mrs. Suckling) has assisted in a speedy supply
and repair service of glasses. The ready and willing help of all
staff at the Eye Clinic has been much appreciated.
"In the Autumn term Dr. Dooley made a full medical examination
of each child, and Mr. Elmer, Senior Dental Officer, also
visited the school and referred six children for dental treatment.