British Schools Museum

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Victorian and Edwardian education at the British Schools Museum in Hitchin, Hertfordshire. This unique museum, housed in original Grade II listed school buildings, offers a captivating glimpse into the history of schooling and the innovative methods that shaped the education system in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The History of the British Schools Museum

The origins of the British Schools Museum date back to 1810 when a local lawyer, William Wilshere, founded the first school on the site. The school was established in a disused malthouse and was designed to educate 200 boys and 100 girls using the monitorial system developed by Joseph Lancaster. This method involved older students, known as monitors, teaching younger pupils under the supervision of a master or mistress. This innovative approach allowed large numbers of children to receive an education, which was particularly significant for the sons and daughters of the poor in Hertfordshire.

As the school grew in popularity and size, new buildings were constructed to accommodate the increasing number of students. In 1837, a new schoolroom capable of holding 300 boys was built, followed by the addition of a galleried classroom in 1853. This classroom, with its distinctive tiered seating, allowed for effective monitorial teaching and remains a rare example of its kind.

The Evolution of Teaching Methods

The monitorial system continued to be used until the Revised Code of 1862 introduced the Pupil Teacher method. This new approach aimed to improve the quality of education by providing older students with training and payment to teach younger pupils. Essentially an apprenticeship in teaching, the Pupil Teacher method sought to address the shortcomings of the monitorial system, where children were often taught by peers who were not much more educated than themselves.

In response to the changing educational landscape, the school underwent further expansions and renovations. By 1857, the school's Board of Trustees decided to completely rebuild the Girls' and Infants' School, resulting in the completion of new buildings in 1858. These included adjoining houses for the Master and Mistress, providing convenient on-site accommodation for the school's leaders.

A Journey Through Time

Today, the British Schools Museum offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the history of education through its meticulously restored schoolrooms. The museum complex includes the original monitorial schoolroom, the galleried classroom, and various other school buildings that have been preserved to reflect their historical conditions. Each room tells a story of the past, showcasing the evolution of teaching methods and the daily experiences of students and teachers.

One of the highlights of the museum is the monitorial schoolroom, where visitors can see firsthand how the monitorial system worked. The room is set up with rows of desks and benches, and the walls are adorned with educational charts and materials from the era. The galleried classroom, with its unique tiered seating, offers a fascinating insight into how large groups of students were taught simultaneously.

Life at the British Schools

In addition to exploring the schoolrooms, visitors can learn about the lives of the students and teachers who once walked the halls of these historic buildings. The museum provides a wealth of information about the daily routines, lessons, and challenges faced by both pupils and educators. From the strict discipline enforced by the teachers to the various subjects taught, including reading, writing, arithmetic, and moral instruction, the museum paints a vivid picture of what life was like in a Victorian and Edwardian school.

The museum also delves into the social history of the time, highlighting the impact of education on social mobility and the efforts to provide schooling for all children, regardless of their background. Exhibits feature original artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring the past to life and offer a deeper understanding of the historical context in which these schools operated.

Recent Developments and Future Plans

In recent years, the British Schools Museum has continued to evolve, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of the local community. The buildings were listed as Grade II in 1975, recognizing their historical significance. In 1990, North Herts College, which had taken over the site, left, and the buildings were put up for sale. The Hitchin British Schools Trust was formed and successfully purchased the buildings in 1994. Since then, the trust has worked tirelessly to restore and maintain the schoolrooms, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn about this important chapter in educational history.

Today, the museum welcomes visitors of all ages, including school groups, families, and history enthusiasts. Special events, workshops, and guided tours provide engaging and interactive experiences that bring the history of education to life. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and activities that explore various aspects of schooling and childhood in the past.

Looking ahead, the British Schools Museum has exciting plans for further development and expansion. Ongoing restoration projects aim to preserve the buildings and enhance the visitor experience, while new exhibits and programs will continue to educate and inspire. The museum's commitment to preserving and sharing the history of education ensures that this remarkable site will remain a valuable resource for generations to come.

In conclusion, the British Schools Museum in Hitchin offers a captivating journey through the history of education, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors. From the pioneering monitorial system to the evolving teaching methods of the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the museum sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of the past. A visit to this remarkable site is not only an educational experience but also a chance to connect with the stories and lives of those who shaped the future of education in Britain.