FOXTON DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3668, 21 July 1927, Page 2

FOXTON DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL

VISIT BY MR, LONGWORTH,

Mr H. E. Longworth, of the Education Department, Director of Physical Training in Schools, visited the local State school yesterday, and saw the teachers and children at work in the physical training part of their daily routine. Mr Longworth expressed himself well pleased with what he had seen, and commended the teachers for the good work they were doing and the children on their fine, healthy, appearance. He also congratulated the children on their fine showing on the sports field, and was delighted to learn that the girls were largely responsible for the success the school had attained in annexing the McKelvie and Ho'bson Shields.

Speaking to the senior scholars, on the value of “Keeping Fit,” Mr Longworth remarked that since 1913 the gills in our primary schools showed an increased height of one inch and a corresponding increase in weight. There was also a marked improvement to be noted in the carriage of our children, more particularly of the girls.

In 1913 official returns showed that 63 per cent, of the pupils attending our primary schools suffered from physical defects, particularly of trunk, chest, and breathing organs. In March, 1927, only 20.3 per cent, were suffering from the above defects and, this he attributed to the physical training consistently and regularly conducted in the schools.

The above figures speak for themselves, and indicate that the system of physical training in vogue in our schools is based on sound principles. The community should realise the valuable work being done by the teach ere throughout the country for they are responsible for the “back” work, and it is the steady, consistent training that tells the tale and this must inevitably result in a healthier, stronger, and happier national, life.