We have just returned from such a fabulous trip at Dr. Barnado’s first Ragged School in Mile End. The children dressed in rags and took the tube to East London. We were greeted by Miss Poole who ran a very strict classroom experience, setting activities and expectation true to the Victorian era.

The children took part in handwriting exercises and simple arithmetic using their chalk boards. Also some drawing of shapes using symmetry. Their behaviour was exceptional as Miss Poole set strict standards to enforce order in the classroom.

This has given a tiny glimmer into what a ragged school had to offer. Of course, conditions were beyond our comprehension, but shows us the very important work Dr. Barnado accomplished in helping a new law to be created. During Queen Victroia’s reign in 1880, a new law was passed, making schools compulsory for 5 – 10 year olds.