PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 191, 9 May 1940, Page 5

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

New Syllabus Explained The superintendent of physical education, Mr. P. A. Smithells, addressed an audience of upward of 100 teachers in the Masonic Hall, Wellington, last night in the new syllabus for physical education in schools. Among those present were the assistant-director of education, Mr. A. !>'. MeMurtrle, and the president of the New Zealand Edu eatioual Institute, Mr. D. C. Pryor. Explaining the new syllabus, Mr. Smithells said that, though the work would in some resixicts be harder for teachers, there would be compensating gains—more time, no rushing about, and more space. Equipment was simple, and there was a sure and enthusiastic response from the children. On the administrative side little help could be expected from refresher courses, because all of the instructors were at present busy in the training colleges. But demonstration schools could be chosen in strategic positions, and. above all, suitable films could ba used. Films were much the most effective media, specially for mass demonstrations.

Of great importance to teachers was the fact that the new scheme was soundly educational. It took special note of individual differences in children and developed Io the utmost that grace of physical movement and economy of effort which could best be described as style. Children entered on the new style of physical education not only with enthusiasm, but with the fullest possible knowledge of what it aimed to do. It was therefore less autocratic than older systems, and more democratic. Mr. Smithells then screened three sound-films which illustrated bis talk in detail, both as to the results that inigh-t be achieved stud the details ot activities.

Bolh talk mid films provoked :i lively discussion which lasted for nearly an hour.