Friern Barnet and Finchley Photo Archive

Holly Park School 1915

Class of scholarship boys. The Headmaster, Mr W G Collier is on the left. Four boys are wearing 3/4 length trousers, thtee are wearing long trousers and all are wearing boots. The two on the front ends are wearing Eton collars. The Boy scout in the middle of the front row must have been an early member. He has several Profficiency Badges. At that time children left school at 12. Grammar schools provided education until 16 or even until University entrance. These schools charged fees. The County Council awarded scholarships giving free education to a few very able children. To win a scholarship was a great honour. Winners had their names written in gold paint on a special Honours Board in the school hall. A scholarship opened the way to a decent education and therefore a way of escape from the working class (Percy Reboul Collection)