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REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL SCHOOL MEDICAL OFFICER
SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICE
On 31st December, 1971 there were 10,049 (9,197) pupils in High Schools, 14,028
(13,371) pupils in Primary Schools, and 295 (296) pupils in full-time equivalent places in
Nursery Schools.
This shows an increase of 1,508 pupils over the previous year attending Local Authority
Schools.
Periodic Medical Examinations
During 1971 periodic medical inspections were carried out on
(1) all new entrants to school
(2) all school leavers
Selective medical examinations are carried out on all children in their eigth and
eleventh years. 46% of children in the 8 year old age group were selected for full
medical examination, and 48% in the 11 year old age group.
In addition to periodic medical inspections, pupils have a vision test at 5, 8, 11, 13and
14½ years of age, and a colour vision test at the age of 11 years. Pupils aged 6 years have a
screening test for hearing carried out by an Audiometrician.
There are three independent schools within the borough who avail themselves of these
services with the consent of the Council:-
Wellington Independent Grammar School
Homefield School
St. Hilda's School
Special Medical Examinations and Re-examinations
Pupils are examined when necessary following periodic medical inspection or when
referred for examination by the head teacher or school nurse and at the request of
parents. These pupils are examined either at the school or at general medical clinics.
The total number of re-examinations in 1971 was 2,119 (3,048). Full details
of defects found at periodic and special medical inspections are given in the appendix to
this report - see Tables V11 and VIII.