- Elementary Schools: These catered to children between the ages of 6 to 12 years old. They formed the foundation of primary education and usually covered grades one to eight.
- Secondary Schools: These targeted students aged 13 to 17. They further developed the concepts introduced in elementary schools and were divided into two categories:
- Grammar Schools: These specialized in a "classical" curriculum, focusing on Latin and Greek languages along with history and literature.
- Secondary Modern Schools: These oriented towards practical subjects such as science, mathematics, and technical skills.
Curriculum:
- Elementary Schools: The primary focus of elementary schools was establishing literacy and numeracy skills. Reading, writing, and basic math formed the core curriculum. In addition, physical education, art, music, and history lessons were often incorporated.
- Secondary Schools: Grammar schools focused on languages, history, and literature. Secondary modern schools emphasized science, math, and practical subjects that would prepare students for technical jobs or apprenticeships.
Education Philosophy and Teaching Methods:
- Rote Memorization: Remembering facts and figures was an essential aspect of learning, especially in grammar schools.
- Classroom Environment: Discipline was maintained through strictness and obedience. Teachers were seen as figures of authority, and any challenge or disrespect towards them was severely dealt with.
- Streaming: To cater to different academic abilities and interests, students were divided into streams. This meant that high-achieving students had different lessons and teachers than their lower-achieving counterparts.
School Facilities:
- Single-Story Buildings: Most schools were single-story structures with large airy rooms.
- Limited Technology: Technology played a limited role in teaching. Blackboards, chalk, books, maps, and occasionally radios for listening to educational broadcasts were the primary teaching tools.
- Uniforms: Students were expected to wear uniforms both at primary and secondary schools. This practice reinforced the importance of discipline and a sense of belonging to a communal system.
Extracurricular Activities:
- Sports: Participation in sports like cricket, football (soccer), and other competitive games was encouraged to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and resilience.
- Clubs: Certain schools had clubs that focused on specific interests such as debate, photography, or drama.
- School Spirit: The notion of school spirit and loyalty was instilled, with students representing the reputation and achievements of their individual schools, especially during sports competitions.
Overall, schools in 1928 operated under a rigid and hierarchical system centered around discipline and rote memorization. They prepared students for distinct social and occupational paths based on their academic abilities.