The 1904 to 1909 Board of Education Syllabus

1904 Syllabus This syllabus still contained a strong element of military drill however variations of the syllabus existed for young children who now had the opportunity for play, having PE lessons outside and wearing suitable PE clothing.

Developments Both public and state schools continued to teach elements of Swedish Gymnastics. Colonel Fox even made a visit to Sweden and was very impressed by it!

Developments Female PE teachers were graduating from Martina Bergman Osterberg’s training college.

Developments In 1907 the Board of Education introduced its own Medical department who had the brief of evaluating the PE syllabus in schools and looking at best practice from other countries. The result of all the research was unanimous. The Swedish system of gymnastics was seen as the most appropriate model.

Dr George Newman Appointed as Chief Medical Officer within the Board of Education. As a medical man, he was interested in the health giving/therapeutic effects of exercise.

Dr George Newman ‘The purpose of physical training is not to produce gymnasts, but to promote and encourage the health and development of the body’.

Content 1909 – More Swedish in character with recreative aspects to relieve dullness, tedium and monotony of former lessons. Dancing steps/simple games. Danish and rhythmic swinging exercises.

Objectives 1909 – Therapeutic effects of exercise (with emphasis on respiration, circulation and posture). Obedience. Discipline. Enjoyment. Alertness, decision-making, control of mind over body.

Methodology 1904 – 109 ‘tables of exercises for teachers to follow. 1909 – Reduced to 71 ‘tables’. Still formal. Still in ranks with marching and ‘free standing’ exercises. Still unison response to commands. A kinder approach by teachers. Some freedom of choice for teachers.

Key points Revisions of the 1902 model course. 1909 – local authorities required to train teachers to deliver the syllabuses. Emphasis on exercise in the open air and the use of suitable clothing. Still large numbers and poor facilities.