The podcast explores the establishment of board schools in London after the 1870 Education Act, highlighting their role in shaping the future of education. It discusses the architectural features of Victorian school buildings and the pedagogical innovations introduced in board schools. The chapter also explores the challenges faced during the interwar years and the post-war building boom. Discussion on the views of a board school student from the 1870s regarding modern schools, reflecting on advancements in health and safety and the need for faster refurbishment processes.
The establishment of board schools in the late nineteenth century addressed the lack of education provisions and left a lasting cultural impact.
Architect Robson prioritized practical aspects of school design, using cost-effective brick and focusing on creating conducive learning spaces.
Deep dives
The establishment and innovation of board schools
Board schools were established through the 1870 Education Act, allowing local school boards to raise taxes for new school constructions. The London school board was especially prominent and attracted influential figures from various fields. The board schools aimed to address the lack of education provisions, and they quickly got to work on building schools, employing architect Robson to oversee the construction. By 1902, the school boards were abolished and replaced by local educational authorities.
Architect Robson's approach to school design
Architect Robson prioritized the practical aspects of school design, considering factors such as ventilation, lighting, sanitation, and classroom layout. He aimed to create spaces that were conducive to learning and adapted to the existing education system, including the six standards of the revised code. Robson advocated for the use of brick, a cost-effective and versatile material. His focus was on building schools that met the requirements of the time and would have a lasting impact.
The impact of board schools
While the direct impact of board schools on educational outcomes is difficult to measure, the existence of the board schools themselves became part of the cultural fabric. There was a degree of respect and even pride associated with board schools, and they became a subject of literary references. Stereotypes of the clever board school boy emerged, showcasing the perception that the schools had a positive influence. However, it is important to note that buildings alone cannot guarantee educational success.
Comparison to post-war and modern school building
The board schools of the 1870s were built at a rapid pace and continue to endure even today. The use of brick and Robson's attention to detail contributed to their longevity. In contrast, post-war school building faced time constraints and limited budgets, resulting in the use of prefabs and later the problematic RAAC concrete. Modern school building projects have faced challenges in striking the balance between architectural innovation, educational suitability, and cost-efficiency. The debate surrounding the importance of school buildings continues, with considerations of urgency and the need for practical, safe, and efficient construction.
In the first of two episodes looking at school buildings, Daisy and Elizabeth focus on the Board School building boom of the late nineteenth century and its legacy