View report page

41
The question of storage of shoes on the school premises is an
urgent problem and it is hoped to supply cabinets of wire cages for
this purpose in the near future.
Because of the shortage of textiles, it has not been possible
to supply physical training and games clothing this year, but
arrangements have been made to receive first supplies early in
1947. The lack of towels also is still a serious handicap in making
full use of the shower baths, and because of the prevailing conditions
it is unlikely to show any immediate change.
Swimming.
It is pleasing to record increased enthusiasm for swimming.
This is due in some measure to the inauguration of a scheme of
transport for the children of those schools most distant from the
Central Baths. It is hoped further to develop this service and so
to obtain an increased attendance at the Lido during the summer
months. It is still impossible, however, to accommodate more
than a small percentage of school children at the Baths, and the
need for increased facilities for instruction is vital to the full development
of this important branch of the work.
The year 1946 has seen the introduction of Middlesex Swimming
Certificates. These are of three grades, elementary, intermediate
and advanced, and together cover all branches of swimming, diving
and life-saving. A very high standard in correctness of style and
consequent ease of performance is demanded by the Examiners and
possession of these certificates indicates real merit. Similar
county certificates have been prepared for members of youth clubs.
Organised Games.
Organised Games are still seriously curtailed through lack of
suitable playing space, the only fields available during the year
being those at Queen Street, at Lordship Lane, at the Marshes, and
the High School. This amounts in all to no more than 30 acres for
a school population of about 16,000. Hence only a small proportion
of children can play on grass, and consequently the grass space
available is seriously overworked. Girls' games in particular have
suffered, as most of the available space is marked and maintained
for football and cricket.
Nevertheless, the Parks Department is doing its utmost to bring
back to normal use those parks and recreation grounds which have