School life in the early 20th century was tough, marked by disease, low teacher pay, and harsh discipline methods.
Southampton: Classrooms were crowded with children, but disease was a constant threat. In October 1903, a medical officer found many students absent due to illnesses like mumps and measles. Even minor ailments could keep kids out of school for long periods.
Children with disabilities faced even tougher challenges. In 1904, a report showed 60 “feeble-minded” children in schools, but no special education was provided. The authorities believed these children could manage on their own after school.
In 1907, a girl named “Maggie,” who was deaf and mute, was sent to an institution in Brighton. Disease outbreaks often forced schools to close, disrupting education for many.
In late 1907, a measles epidemic led to the closure of infant schools in Southampton. Teachers also struggled financially. The highest-paid headmaster earned just £20 a month, while many teachers made even less.
Teachers received their pay from clerks who visited schools by cab, a practice that continued long after horse-drawn cabs were replaced by taxis. Cheque payments didn’t start until the 1930s, showing how inefficient the system was.
Relations between teachers and the borough council were tense. In 1905, the council cut staff to save money, leading to protests from head teachers. The Education Committee ignored requests for better funding and support.
By 1908, requests for more teacher assistants in overcrowded classes were denied. This discontent led to a 14-week teachers’ strike in 1922, halting education in Southampton.
Corporal punishment was common. Teachers used canes, straps, and rulers to discipline students. Children often had to write sentences repeatedly as punishment, which was tedious and exhausting.
Detention was a standard punishment for incomplete work or misbehavior, often combined with physical punishment. Some teachers shamed students publicly, making them stand on stools or wear signs about their mistakes.
Punishments were often harsh and unfair. Kids could be punished for minor things like talking or daydreaming, creating a fearful atmosphere in classrooms. Thankfully, corporal punishment is now banned in UK schools.
While daily school meals weren’t common yet, concerns about child malnutrition were growing. In 1879, Manchester began providing free meals to needy children, focusing on filling stomachs rather than nutrition.
The Education (Provision of Meals) Act of 1906 allowed local authorities to provide meals, but it wasn’t mandatory. Many schools relied on charities to help feed poor children.
As time went on, school canteens became more common, especially in secondary schools. Meals were simple and affordable, but quality varied widely.
The First World War raised awareness about child nutrition, leading to some expansion of meal programs, though many working-class families still had to pay for meals.
In 1944, the Education Act made it mandatory for local authorities to provide school meals, marking a significant change in school nutrition.
The early 20th century was a tough time for education in Southampton. Overcrowded classrooms, disease, low teacher pay, and strict discipline created a challenging environment for students and teachers alike.
