Approved school

Approved School

An Approved School in the United Kingdom was a type of residential institution to which young people could be sent by a court for committing offences or, in some cases, because they were deemed to be beyond parental control. The system was established under the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 and continued until the Children and Young Persons Act 1969 reformed the way young offenders were dealt with, leading to the eventual phasing out of Approved Schools in favor of the Community Home with Education system.

History

The concept of Approved Schools originated in the early 20th century, evolving from the earlier Reformatory Schools and Industrial Schools which were designed to reform young offenders. The 1933 Act aimed to provide a more child-centered approach, focusing on education and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Approved Schools were operated by a variety of organizations, including local authorities, religious groups, and charitable organizations, but were all subject to government inspection and approval, hence the name.

Function and Operation

Approved Schools catered to boys and girls aged between 8 and 17. The schools were divided into Junior, Intermediate, and Senior grades, depending on the age and needs of the children. The curriculum included both academic education and vocational training, with the aim of preparing the students for a return to society and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

Discipline was a significant aspect of life in Approved Schools, with a strong emphasis on routine, respect for authority, and personal responsibility. However, the institutions also provided recreational activities and aimed to foster a sense of community among the students.

Criticism and Reform

Despite the intentions behind their establishment, Approved Schools were often criticized for their harsh disciplinary practices, and some were implicated in cases of abuse. The system also faced criticism for failing to adequately address the needs of the children in its care, particularly those with emotional and behavioral problems.

The Children and Young Persons Act 1969 marked a significant shift in the approach to juvenile justice, emphasizing care and rehabilitation over punishment. This Act led to the gradual replacement of Approved Schools with the Community Home with Education system, which aimed to provide a more supportive and less institutional environment for young offenders and those in need of care.

Legacy

The legacy of Approved Schools is complex. While they played a role in the development of juvenile justice and child welfare systems in the UK, their history is also marred by instances of abuse and the negative impact on some of those who passed through them. The transition to a more enlightened approach to juvenile care reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards children's rights and the treatment of young offenders.