‘First Day Schools’

Throughout his life, Sturge’s passion for antislavery campaigning was always linked to the need for social changes at home. Widening education was a priority. Therefore, in 1845, Sturge helped begin the Quaker led ‘Severn Street First Day Schools’ for those who could not afford an education. Volunteer teachers provided Sunday school lessons for both younger pupils and older working class men. The building where the classes were originally held is now being redeveloped. At the top of the building is a sign which states ‘British School’

Later, a women’s class was also established, and the pattern established by the Severn Street Schools spread out into other Birmingham districts. Other ‘first day’ schools were established in areas such as Floodgate Street, Bournville, Northfield and Selly Oak. The Severn Street Schools continued into the 20th century, setting an important precedent for educational reform.