Lives in Cricket No 21 - Walter Read

9 set teaching standards and instigated a series of qualifications for teachers. In 1855, the year of Walter’s birth, Robert had acquired his own school, advertised in the local press as REIGATE COMMERCIAL SCHOOL (West Street) Conducted by Mr Robert Read A member of the College of Preceptors The School (as its name implies) provides a course of sound instruction in those subjects which have direct relation to the business of life; viz The Holy Scriptures, Reading, Writing, Grammar, and Composition; Arithmetic, Etc and Book-keeping, Geography and Mapping with the elements of Drawing and Vocal Music, are also taught. Extra Terms for a thorough grounding in Latin and French: the latter being taught by Monr Alsacer, Professor of Languages. A string of references follows, including Rev W T Jones MA, the College, Sydenham with whom Mr Read had been an articled Assistant for three years. 3 Meanwhile, Mrs Brewer’s school has become an ‘Establishment for Young Ladies’, rather more refined, but complementing in a mid-nineteenth century way, the neighbouring commercial school. Terms including the usual course of English Study and French which is constantly spoken. For pupils above 10 years of age 35gns Under that age 30gns Music, Drawing and Dancing by efficient masters on the usual terms Washing four guineas Each pupil is required to bring a Silver Fork and Spoon and six towels which will be returned on her leaving the establishment. Half yearly payments are requested and a Quarter’s notice previous to the removal of a pupil. The address of the establishment is Holmesdale House, Reigate which becomes the address – and name - of Robert Read’s School, so it is likely that the latter took over the buildings while the young ladies’ education became concentrated on the other side of town. Family Background 3 Palgrave Illustrated Handbook to Reigate