SWIMMING IN SCHOOLS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXII, Issue 19125, 17 September 1925, Page 8

SWIMMING IN SCHOOLS.

COMPULSION DECLINED. * ATTITUDE OF DEPARTMENT. BOARD'S STRONG PROTEST. Emphatic opinions in favour of the compulsory learning of swimming for primary school children were expressed at the meeting of the Auckland Education Board yesterday. A letter was received from the Education Department stating it was not in favour of the proposal to make the learning of swimming a part of the school curriculum, even* in the case of schools where facilities for swimming exist. . The chairman, Mr. A. Burns, said a protest should be made against the department's decision. Where facilities existed swimming should be made compulsory. It was one of the best, of sports and the knowledge of swimming was an excellent acquisition for all children. If the financial position would allow he would like to see it made compulsory in all schools. Every healthy child, delighted in swimming, and it should bo made part of their physical instruction. Other members spoke in support. It was stated the department's objection was based on the fear that if swimming Were made compulsory in some schools others would clamour for facilities and great expense would be involved.' It was decided to make representations to the department in the matter.