1. What were the aims of public schools? What were the characteristics of public schools? What physical activities were originally undertaken at public schools? Aims, Characteristics and physical activities of public schools

2. History Public schools were established long before state or government schools were thought of Only used to cater for the ‘elite’ society of the upper class (such as Eton and Harrow) During the 19 th century the middle class emerged They had worked hard for their wealth and wanted to emulate the lifestyles of the upper class Not allowed in public schools due to their background Middle class built their own Proprietary schools (such as Marlborough and Clifton )

3. Aims They aimed to educate the future leaders of society for their role as politicians, lawyers and doctors Leadership skills and ‘behaviour befitting gentlemen’ key components in their education Taught social order Prepared to serve their country in whatever way necessary

4. Characteristics Public schools for the upper and eventually the middle classes Elitist Fee paying Controlled by trustees Often a long way from the boys homes in rural locations- most boarded Boys leaving home at an early age became institutionalised- learning their place in society Older boys became prefects and younger boys were made to serve them (Fags) Bullying arose- very harsh and wide spread Single sex (initially for first sons only then daughters too) Strict discipline- flogging often occurred Harsh treatment and basic living conditions prepared boys for adult life

5. Physical Activities Boys used to spend afternoons unsupervised and caused problems in the local area trespassing on property, poaching, gambling and taking part in Mob games. School authorities disapproved of these activities because... they happened away from school grounds they had no moral values they bought the school’s reputation into disrepute

6. Development of Physical Activity Before the 1850’s sporting activities were seen as a waste of time In 1864 Queen Victoria appointed the Earl of Clarendon and his team to examine public school life Criticised many aspects and gave advice on how to improve- recognised the value of team games Legacy remains here today with Rugby, Hockey and Cricket still popular during curricular and extracurricular time