Drinkstone School and Village: A Suffolk History - Sheila Wright

This local history tells the story of one Suffolk Church of England school in its village context. Drinkstone School was built in 1861 and enlarged in 1912 but spent many of its final years under threat of closure. It was starved of funds for essential modernisation work such as the installation of flush toilets but the dedication of its teachers and the lively spirit of its pupils ensured that it was a stimulating and happy place in which to learn. The school finally closed in 1986 and, after standing sadly derelict, has now been converted into a delightful house. 

Besides recounting month-by-month school life, Sheila Wright explores how 'education for all' came about during the 19th Century, how C. of E. village schools were founded, what factors led to their rise and to their gradually reduced role, leading eventually to closure for vast numbers of such schools. 

The book describes the socio-economic climate over the decades, and looks at links between Church, school and State, the hierarchy of 'Class', the ravages of two World Wars and much more, bringing us to modern times when Suffolk villages and their communities are vastly different from those days two centuries ago when the charity to promote education in Drinkstone was established.

A stong feature of the book is the dozens of vivid personal stories and reminiscences of ex-pupils, staff, and villagers. Several contributors are now aged over ninety. Their stories take us back in time and enable us to share intimate details of other lives. 

Publisher: Greenridges Press

ISBN: 9781902019086

Pages: 274

Weight: 837 g

Dimensions: 298 x 211 x 16 mm