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(d) Four schools hold classes during the warmer months in
the open air on the flat roofs provided, and certain schools hold
classes in the neighbouring parks and recreation grounds.
(e) There is one Day Open Air School at Crosby Road for
60 girls from the age of 7 years upwards. The cases are recommended
by the School Medical Staff from their findings at Medical
Inspection. During the year 79 girls were admitted and 68
discharged.
The children are re-examined prior to admission. The
scholars are also periodically examined, and many of them attend
a neighbouring Clinic. A long period of attendance is usually required,
as the home influences very often detract from the benefit
that would otherwise accrue. The children have the advantage
of good meals, morning milk, and plenty of rest, as well as lessons
in an open air environment. They also benefit by spray baths,
breathing exercises and handkerchief and tooth-brush drill.
There were 90 cases that attended the Clinic for advice, treatment
or observation, making 420 attendances in all.
To Miss Davies I am indebted for the following report on the
School:—
The year 1931 began with 53 girls on roll, and ended with
63. In the case of almost every child there was a marked improvement
in health and general tone. During the year 45 girls returned
to the ordinary Elementary School, having, in the opinion of the
School Medical Officer, benefited sufficiently to be able to resume
their ordinary school studies. Ten girls have been transferred to
the Fyfield Residential Open Air School.
It is the aim of the School, not only to promote the physical
well-being of each child, but also to improve her mental outlook.
It is very encouraging to see these children, whom ill-health and
repeated absences from School have necessarily made dull and
backward, respond to good food, freedom from worry and daily
and regular rest.
The girls are encouraged to take part in the ordinary activities
of the normal child, and enjoy outdoor games and sports of
the less strenuous kind. Dancing, singing, music and dramatic
work all play their part.
A great factor in bracing up the mental tone, and fostering
independence of thought and action, is the individual garden,
which each child possesses.
The girls are to a great extent self-governed, and they work
loyally under the Captain and Officers elected by themselves.
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