SCHOOL SWIMMING BATHS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2269, 28 April 1921, Page 2

SCHOOL SWIMMING BATHS.

Referring to the necessity for swimming baths at the school, the head teacher, Mr Fume, in his report, stated that of the scholars in the school, not 10 per cent, can swim even a few yards, and the ability to do so rests with the boys. “I have not yet discovered a girl in the school who is able to swim more than a few strokes. With proper and convenient provisions for teaching the scholars, one could guarantee that at the end of, sav, two years, there would not be 10 per cent., from Standard 111. upwards, who could not do so. Now that the water and drainage operations are under way an effort should be made to accpiire, either by means .of gift or purchase, the Maori section at the corner of Duncan -Street, and adjoining the school. No better spot could be selected for a bath’s site, and with the baths an accomplished fact, swimming and lifesaving would he made a regular part of the curriculum of the local school. Children would be given regular instruction, both in swimming and life-saving and resuscitation. The Government encourages teaching swimming in schools by paying a capitation allowance of 2s Gd for every child from Standard IV. upwards who is given 20 hours’ instruction per annum, which would go towards upkeep expenses.” The Mayor, in referring to this matter, said that the services of an expert had been obtained to advise the Council re public swimming baths, and in his opinion the cost of pumping required for the school would be very expensive.

It is probable that the Committee will give this matter attention during the year.