School Records: Researching Ancestors' Education

When: Saturday 4 July 2026, 11:00 - 13:00
Where: Webinar

An antique school slate with a wooden frame engraved with cursive letters, resting on a leather satchel alongside a slate pencil, eraser, and small crocheted cloth.

Discover how the provision for education for our English ancestors was transformed between 1860 and the start of the First World War. After 1870, schools run by local elected boards (Board Schools) supplemented those founded by religious bodies; in turn, in 1902 schools became council schools administered by local education authorities (LEAs). Throughout the period, teacher training was improved, the school syllabus developed and pupil numbers increased. Finally, in the 1890s, compulsory free schooling was provided for most children. Tutor, Joan Dils, will lead you through the changes, the records produced and how to contextualise and interpret them. 

Pre-booking is required so that the meeting link can be emailed to you. 

To enjoy this workshop you will need a computer device which has speakers and a microphone. Ideally, also a web-cam. You also need to be able to access your emails from it. First-time users of Zoom will be asked to download a small piece of software. For technical help email: booking@berksfhs.org.uk 

Scroll down to book. 

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