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90
main, as is usual in the parish, for the water was passed
through filters, which had not, it was said, been examined for
some years.
The closets also required much alteration. And I
could not but observe that the infants' playground, situated
under the school, has a very low ceiling, and is therefore very
gloomy, and moreover exposed on one side to the open air;
consequently in wet, windy weather it is dark and exceedingly
draughty, owing to its exposure, and the lowness of the ceiling.
It is manifest that of this school, the importance of a
properly covered playground has not been sufficiently considered.
Some minds might dispute the value of book learning
to children, beyond reading for amusement; but probably
no one would question the importance of encouraging children
by playful exercises, to develope their limbs, and especially the
ready, quick use of their hands, eyes and ears, and the free
working, of all their senses; for such is the early course of
development for the more serious work of after life. A covered
playground should certainly therefore be bright, well lighted,
and airy, and not exceedingly draughty, as in the instance
referred to.
Considering the various defects, to which I have referred, it
was clear that this building was unfit for the purpose to which
it was devoted, and moreover it was questionable if it could be
made fit. Having reported that opinion to your Vestry, a copy
of the Medical Officer's and of the Sanitary Inspector's Reports
was forwarded to the School Board.
After a while, and after repeated communications, some
alterations were made by the direction of the Board, the defects
of water supply and closet accommodation were removed;
additional windows to supply more direct light were provided,
but the rooms are still defectively lighted, and the playground
remains as before.