Impact of Education and Childhood

How did education change childhood during the Victorian era?

It allowed poor children to receive basic schooling instead of spending their lives doing menial labour.

What were ‘Ragged Schools’?

Schools set up to provide poor children with basic education and material needs, reflecting Dickens' belief that education was key to escaping poverty.

How was education different for rich and poor children before ‘Ragged Schools’?

Only the rich were educated—boys went to boarding school, while upper-class girls learned domestic skills at home.

How did education impact career opportunities for poor children?

It allowed them to pursue real careers rather than being trapped in unskilled labour.

How does Dickens’ own life reflect the impact of education?

His access to education allowed him to become a writer rather than being stuck in poverty.