| Description | In this paper Elizabeth Taylor Cadbury suggests that the 'official mind' in England was becoming aware of the insufficiencies in the English education system, particularly the young age at which children left school and the problems of oversized classes. Taylor Cadbury describes the efforts being made to ensure the continued educational development of children through evening schools and educational associations for workers, focussing on the development of Day Continuation schools planned in the 1918 Education Act.
Much of Taylor Cadbury's paper examines the development of Day Continuation schools in Birmingham, remarking on legislation to make attendance at the schools compulsory rather than voluntary. She comments on the demand for increased educational opportunities, the attitude of parents and students and the necessary qualities of teaching staff. Taylor Cadbury also considers the working relationship between the schools and employers who would be required to release their workers to attend classes, remarking on issues of discipline and organisation.
Taylor Cadbury's paper includes details about the curriculum at the Day Continutation schools already in existence, focussing on the school established in Bournville. Her paper reveals that in addition to lessons in history, geography and literature, students were taught citizenship and taken on visits to the Law Courts, Welfare Centres and Art Gallery in Birmingham. Girls were also taught dressmaking, cookery and laundry in voluntary evening classes. Physical exercise formed an important part of the curriculum with tuition in drawing and metal work for boys.
Taylor Cadbury also explores the social aspects of the Day Continutation schools in Birmingham and the relationships established between staff and students as well as remarking on the financial aspects of the venture. She concludes her address with thoughts about 'Moral or Religious teaching', emphasising the importance of 'the cultivation of the spiritual side of our nature' in work aiming towards the improvement of 'material conditions and educational opportunities'.
Two printed copies of this paper are featured here. |
| AdminHistory | Following the implementation of educational schemes for workers at the Cadbury factory in Bournville, a Day Continuation School was opened in the village in 1913. Scott remarks on Elizabeth Taylor Cadbury's keen interest in the school which was maintained by Birmingham Education Authority and later renamed the Day Continuation College. Many of Taylor Cadbury's addresses and publications reflect her concern about the young age at which children left school to enter employment, a belief which motivated her efforts to promote the work of continuation schools. Taylor Cadbury also delivered public addresses promoting the work of Day Continuation Schools during this period. |