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children to pay a weekly visit to a playing field for an hour's period
of games.
Swimming. Arrangements are made for children to attend
the baths in school time to receive instruction in swimming from
fully qualified specialist instructors, and the baths are used to
capacity. Both summer and winter swimming is arranged for.
In addition life-saving classes are conducted by several teachers;
children who are sufficiently competent may attend the baths free
of charge for life-saving instruction. Swimming proves to be a
very popular and successful part of the physical education activities,
as is indicated by the figures given above in the paragraph
dealing with the West Ham Schools' Sports Association.
Curriculum. The majority of schools in West Ham have
allocated a generous time allowance for sports. Many head teachers
have remarked on a better spirit, increased concentration and
higher state of alertness in the children since more physical training
was introduced into the curiculum.
Physical recreation for those who have left school. "Keepfit"
classes are organised in connection with evening institutes.
Independent clubs are also assisted by the Authority in this work,
either by the provision of a block grant or the services of an
instructor. A new development is the formation of "keep-fit"
classes in connection with Old Scholars' Clubs. This movement
is developing rapidly.
West Ham Juvenile Organisations Committee (J.O.C.).
This important committee organises and controls the sports activities
of the majority of the boys and girls between fourteen and
eighteen years of age. It publishes a magazine which is much in
demand.
XII. PROVISION OF MEALS.
Since 1908 a scheme has been in existence in West Ham
for the provision of meals for necessitous children. There have
been many fluctuations during the ensuing years in the number
of meals provided annually, largely due to economic circumstances.
At the present time there are twelve centres, one having been
opened at Elmhurst Road School during the year. All these
centres are so situated as to be easily accessible from any part of
the Borough. The menus are arranged by the superintendent
of the dining centres. Fresh fruit and vegetables are always
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