Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Tottenham]
This page requires JavaScript
106
Emphasis is now placed on the development of the individual
through the practice of movements which are wider in range and
quality than those based on the 19 33 syllabus. Opportunities are
now provided for the development of the individual according to
his or her own ability: for the development of sel f - exp res sion ,
self-control and for harnessing the natural desire to climb - so
often thwarted in a built-up area, This has led to the introduction
of climbing apparatus. The results of this broader and less
rigid approach can be seen in the pupils' confidenee, self-reliance
and adaptability.
The use of apparatus necessitates the wearing of heel-less
rubber shoes or bare feet where floor conditions permit and it is
advisable to have the minimum amount of clothing on - factors
which considerably aid the standard of cleanliness and hygiene, so
necessary to maintain.
Much attention has been paid also to floor surfaces, again
with an eye on safety and cleanliness
The Organisers of Physical Education have given special
assistance to the Primary Schools by means of lecture demonstrations,
courses and personal visits to schools.
Secondary
Physical Training forms the most important and regular
feature of all schools, where facilities are adequate. These
regular lessons when followed by a shower bath are found to be
very helpful to the formation of health giving habits, Unfortunately
some schools have inadequate facilities and the pupils' full
development suffers accordingly. The secondary lesson is changing
in its pattern and is becoming wider in its content. Formal
and isolated movements are giving way to larger movements which
incorporate the larger muscle groups. Emphasis is placed on
qualities of movement performed within varied ranges0 The local
Parks Committee have provided additional hockey pitches for girls
and much use is made of public tennis courts.
Swimming
Regular visits are made by all schools to the Baths but
instruction suffers owing to the facilities having to be shared
with the public, Owing to inadequate facilities, all pupils from
nine onwards cannot make regular visits to the Baths, The two