Auchtermuchty Schools
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Main Schools in Auchtermuchty
o Voluntary / Public Schools
The Parish School became the North Public School
The Free Church School became the South Public School
o Adventure Schools ('Venture' schools) and Dame Schools
Various
o Subscription Schools:
Madras School 1855
Southfield Institute for Young Ladies 1860s
Key Dates in Scottish School Education
1560 The post-Reformation Presbyterian Church of Scotland declared its intention to establish a nation-wide system of education including schools, colleges and universities.
1696 An Act made it compulsory for every parish to establish a school.
Schooling was not made compulsory by law, but parish ministers were expected to ensure that children did attend school. There was no set leaving date but parish ministers and kirk sessions tried to ensure that pupils didn't leave until they were proficient at reading the Bible.
1872 The Scottish Education Act made attendance at school compulsory for children aged 5-13. (2 years after a similar Act had been passed in England.)
All schools were now placed under the charge of School Boards, composed of tax- payers. Fees were still to be paid. If necessary, assistance was given from the parish rates.
Most 'voluntary' schools, e.g. in Auchtermuchty, the Free Church School, joined the state system. Madras School was incorporated a few years later.
Some private schools, in particular, Roman Catholic and Episcopalian Church schools remained independent.
1883 The school leaving age was raised to 14.
1888 Leaving Certificate exams were introduced - 'Lowers' and 'Highers' .
1891 Fees for children aged 5 - 14 were abolished.
All householders now had to pay 'school rates' whether or not they had children attending school.
1908 Compulsory medical inspections for school children were introduced.
Schools Boards were permitted to provide cheap school meals, free books and stationery.
1918 The leaving age was increased to 15.
School Boards were abolished and replaced by Education Authorities in counties and cities.
This was an attempt to eradicate the differences between schools in wealthy cites and those in poorer rural areas.
1934 Milk was supplied at a reduced price and after 1946 it became free.
1947 The leaving age was raised to 15.
1974 The leaving age was raised to 16.
l980s The use of the belt/strap/tawse was phased out and banned completely in 1987.