Did education promote social mobility within the working class in Birmingham?

Foster, Julie (2019). Did education promote social mobility within the working class in Birmingham? University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Using a unique data set which linked material from a multitude of sources, this research determined whether an association existed between education and subsequent achievement, in the Blue Coat Charity School in Birmingham between 1780 and 1850.

The research followed the life course of pupils at the school from the time they were admitted to the time they left and then throughout their working lives to measure the extent of intragenerational and intergenerational social mobility. Subsequently, the mobility was then correlated to the extent of their educational achievements to determine whether their education enabled them to acquire a higher status role or move into a higher social class.

The study found that the school provided quality education in comparison to other schools in the locality, and evidence suggests that overall those boys who excelled academically were more likely to obtain a beneficial apprenticeship. However they did not necessarily need academic skills to succeed and secure a degree of social mobility as the social capital they also acquired within the school was found to be as beneficial – if not more so – than their educational achievements. For the girls there was little sign that their education enhanced their status.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):