School board elections in north east England: a study in urban politics

Abstract

of classes and sexes at School Board elections and on Boards themselves. The future of society was greatly affected by this. All types of people, rich and poor, stood for School Boards, showing the importance placed on education. However, the enthusiasm of working class parents, highlighted by their participation in or opposition to School Boards, as well as the reasons for this is also discussed. To show that Board School education was not all that was available for working class children, other educational agencies are looked at. Their importance and the effect of School Boards upon them are also followed up. One aspect of this, the rivalry between Voluntary and Board Schools, is seen throughout the period, and this played a part in influencing the events of 1902.The local element of School Board elections is considered by looking more closely at Durham, Hedworth, Monkton and Jarrow, and Darlington. The differences between these three Boards also helps to illustrate the differences between School Boards in general. The political opportunities made available in North East England by the 1870 Education Act and how the area was affected are thus seen.