Ancestry UK

Birmingham School Board Industrial School for Girls, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, Warwickshire

In 1873, the Birmingham School Board opened an Industrial School for Girls in a building at Stratford Road, Sparkhill, previously used as a convalescent hospital. The premises were formally certified for operation on April 16th, 1873, although no children were admitted until December. Most of the initial intake came from the Gem Street Industrial School, where the girls' department was being closed. Miss Walsh was initially appointed as matron, and her sister as schoolmistress. They both in late 1774 and were succeeded by Mrs Nunn and Miss Parfitt respectively.

An inspection report in 1875 recorded that there were now 27 inmates in residence. Several of the older girls transferred from Gem Street had caused much trouble. Classroom performance was 'improving, but not very far advanced'. The girls were employed in washing, needlework, and housework.

In August, 1876, the School received the former inmates of the city's Vale Street Industrial School which was then closing.

The home was closed in 1877, apparently as a money-saving measure. The inmates under detention were then transferred to Industrial Schools at York, Bath, and Liverpool.

Records

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  • None identfied at present — any information welcome.

Bibliography

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