Available online
Description
This programme explores the reasons - both overt and hidden - for the state provision of schooling for the masses. We look at the relationship between the origins of compulsory schooling and the de...mands of the economic system. The programme is set in Birmingham, which offers a good example of the growth of industrial capitalism: and of the expansion of education for the working class. Using contemporary photographs, we look at the growth of municipal awareness, which took place in the mid-nineteenth century; and consider the development of education as part of this wider concern for the well-being of the work force. We take as an example, the George Dixon School, founded by the wealthy MP for Birmingham who was a leading campaigner for state education. The film explores the ideals of the founder in relation to the experience of the teachers and pupils of the school today. It aims to give an understanding of the nature of mass schooling and its legacy as we experience it now.
This programme explores the reasons - both overt and hidden - for the state provision of schooling for the masses. We look at the relationship between the origins of compulsory schooling and the de...mands of the economic system. The programme is set in Birmingham, which offers a good example of the growth of industrial capitalism: and of the expansion of education for the working class. Using contemporary photographs, we look at the growth of municipal awareness, which took place in the mid-nineteenth century; and consider the development of education as part of this wider concern for the well-being of the work force. We take as an example, the George Dixon School, founded by the wealthy MP for Birmingham who was a leading campaigner for state education. The film explores the ideals of the founder in relation to the experience of the teachers and pupils of the school today. It aims to give an understanding of the nature of mass schooling and its legacy as we experience it now.
| Module code and title: | E202, Schooling and society |
|---|---|
| Item code: | E202; 01 |
| First transmission date: | 27-02-1977 |
| Published: | 1977 |
| Rights Statement: | |
| Restrictions on use: | |
| Duration: | 00:23:47 |
| + Show more... | |
| Producer: | David M. Thompson |
| Contributor: | George Dixon School |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Keyword(s): | Birmingham University; Joseph Chamberlain; Mass schooling; Paris Exhibition; State provision |
| Footage description: | The programme opens with shots of morning assembly at the George Dixon secondary school, Birmingham. Over this the headmaster and a parent comment on the aims and reputation of the school. The narrator briefly describes the school. Over shots of a school workshop the headmaster outlines the school's tradition. Shots of a rugby match. Short sequence showing the headmaster addressing the school assembly. Stills of the school's founder, George Dixon and of school scenes from the early 20th century. Over these the narrator reads Dixon's explanation as to why the school was set up. Dixon's social position and philanthropic views are described, over stills of slums and workshops. Further quotation from Dixon in which he advocates educating the poor. Growth of Victorian Birmingham is described, and of the role of Municipal philanthropy explained by Dixon's contemporary, George Dawson. Quotation from Joseph Chamberlain on the need for better education and social conditions, over contemporary stills. Numerous stills of Victorian civic buildings and schools. Dixon's remarks on international economic competition are read over stills of the Paris Exhibition. The virtues of universal education are expounded in detail. Over shots of Birmingham University, Dixon's views on the role of higher education are quoted. A Spanish lesson is seen in progress at the school. Over part of this the teacher explains the aims of secondary education. Film of an English lesson. Over part of this two pupils make general comments about school life. Shots of an art class, over which the headmaster contrasts the experience of being at school with that of work. In interview the school's Careers Advisor describes her method of dealing with pupils Over shots of a woodwork lesson two boys explain the importance of getting a job after leaving school. A further extract from the headmaster's speech at morning assembly is shown, and then in interview he explains the school's need to prepare pupils for adult life. The programme ends with a girl pupil explaining the need in every child to succeed at something. |
| Master spool number: | 6HT/72402 |
| Production number: | 00525_6146 |
| Videofinder number: | 560 |
| Available to public: | no |
