Education in spotlight
COSSINGTON WI welcomed Mr Michael Dix who spoke on “150 Years of Primary Education through 5 Generations”.
He spoke about the lives of his own ancestors, all of whom had become teachers in primary education from 1850, and what it was like for them. The same four questions are still asked today as it was then, i.e. 1. What is teaching for? 2. What shall we teach? 3. How shall we teach it? 4. Why isn’t it as good as it used to be?
His great great grandfather lived at an age of good education, he being a pupil teacher, staying on at school and continued to learn, then becoming a teacher.
In the early days there were large classes, eg. 120 infants to one teacher, and for older children 300 to two teachers.
In the 18th century charity schools appeared and over the years the Government has introduced various acts.
In 1861 schooling was made compulsory up to the age of 10. Later it was increased to 11, 12 and 13 years. Children were often absent from school due to working in the hayfields.
Up to 1918 when a woman married she had to give up her job, until war broke out. In 1960 the 11+ exam was introduced. In recent years Ofsteds have been introduced, and there are more incidents of criminal offences.
Cossington WI meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm. in the Jubilee Hall, (rear of school). Visitors fee is £4, first visit is free. All welcome.