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plored the canal and various places of interest. Practically the
whole party went by the light railway to visit the lighthouse at
Dungeness, and spent a most instructive and enjoyable afternoon,
finishing up with a picnic on the shingle.
As West Ham must be in the fashion, hiking parties were
more popular than ever. It was a matter of real interest to me to
see how eagerlv the girls packed their rucksacks, had their shoes
inspected, and set off with the ordnance maps. Those who know
this district will realise the difficulties of making these walks
interesting, yet keeping within the walking capacity of the girls,
owing to the marshy character of the country and the dykes with
which it is intersected. The longest of these walks was made
particularly interesting by the fact that the party was met at Ivychurch
by the Rector, who conducted a tour over the ancient and
historic Church of the village, and pointed out the landmarks from
the tower of the Church.
While these outside interests take up much of the time, the
inside camp life is not neglected. Impromptu concerts, community
singing. entertainment competitions, etc., all add zest to the
holiday; and the climax of these revels came when the Staff gave
their eagerly awaited entertainment. Judging from the applause
of the audience it was as much appreciated as ever.
The health of the children was good and we had no accidents.
This, together with the fine weather, made this as enjoyable a
fortnight as we have spent there."
In this connection the local branch of the Children's Country
Holiday Fund sent away a large number of children (both boys
and girls) during the Summer holidays. All these children are
inspected by the Nursing staff, as to their cleanliness and freedom
from infectious or contagious conditions.
(10) Physical Training.
There is no organiser for physical training in the Elementary
schools, but drill, games and physical exercises are supervised
by individual teachers in the various schools.
There is a well organised School Sports Association composed
of members of the West Ham Education Committee and
teachers. All available sites in the Borough are utilised to the
fullest extent in carrying through a vast athletic programme.
Scholars for whom an opinion is required as to fitness for
participation in various sections of games are referred for examination
by an Assistant School Medical Officer.
During the year 229 bovs were examined. Only 2 were found
unfit.
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