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Occupation Centre.
More progress was made during the year. In addition to the handicrafts section for
the older boys which came Into being In January, plans were prepared to adapt a further
section of the premises for senior girls. This latter section was opened in September and
with the boys' handicraft section has proved of Inestimable value in the training of children
attending the Centre.
The report of the Supervisor, Miss F.E.Forshaw, on the work of the Centre is given
below:-
This year was again one of progress. It opened with 37 children on the register and
closed with 47. Five new children were admitted on the first day of term, a total of 14
during the year; 3 went to South Ockendon and one proved unsuitable.
One of our major ambitions were realised during January: the senior boys craft section
opened in a converted building. Miss Barnett took over,and began what is now a most beneficial
section far* the senior boys.
July was our next milestone, an Open Day for parents - especially delighted were the
parents and friends of our boys'section who saw for the first time what was being accomplished.
Our outing to Mr. & Mrs. Smith's Farm and Riding School was a success, the weather kept
fine If cool, and a visit to see the horses and baby pigs gave real pleasure.
Just before the summer break we had our usual show afternoon and sale of handiwork.
Parents and friends numbered about 40 and were most appreciative.
Miss Barnett left us to take up a Supervisor's post with the Kent County Council at
Cliftonville, Margate. We were all sorry to say goodbye but wished her luck in her new post.
Miss Hislop joined the staff later in the year taking over Miss Barnett's post.
In September came two further developments, a Male Handicraft Instructor for the
senior boys and the opening of the girls'section. Mr.Hart took over the senior boys and
Immediately they were able to broaden their scope, both in activities and Instruction. With
Mr.Hart's specialised knowledge in woodwork we have been able to watch the boys gain a real
insight into tools, their care and uses and several now handle simple tools with Intelligence.
The senior girls'section has given scope for a more general training In simple housework,
ironing and washing bibs, etc., a scheme that has possibilities and can be developed and one of
real importance to the girls' lives.
A Guy Fawkes celebration was much enjoyed, and from the safety of the school room
windows the smaller children watched with Interest.
Our Christmas Party was dual this year - a film show In the morning given by the Rev.
Hawkins of Dagenham, dinner followed by games and then a "show" put on by the children for
their parents. Everyone had some part to take, if only "crowd work", and all groups gave an
item of interest. Carols sung round the Christmas Tree finished off the afternoon.
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