Wilderspin National School Museum Samuel Wilderspin (1791 – 1866), one of the founding members of modern schooling, had a profound impact on educational practice and the design and furnishing of schools and their grounds. He specialised in the youngest age group, from 18 months to seven years, and was especially concerned with education for the poor. He became best-known for his pioneering work on infant schools, but his innovations gradually transformed schooling for children of all ages.
After many years spent travelling and promoting infant schooling throughout Britain and Ireland, Wilderspin moved to Barton and created his own model infant school on Queen Street which was built in 1844. He was the first superintendent of the infant school and taught here with his wife and daughter as well as training teachers and nursery governesses, and using it as a base for his promotion of enlightened education throughout Britain
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The school, a Grade II*-listed building, closed in 1978 and fell into disrepair. Restoration of the school was completed in 2009, and it now stands as a celebration of the life and work of Samuel Wilderspin. Wilderspin National School Museum is the only place in the world where a Wilderspin school building and playground survive, making it a place of national and international importance.
Heritage Printing drop-in with ST-ART Saturday 21st September, 10.00am – 1.00pm Young people of all ages can drop in and learn traditional printing techniques, using inspiration and materials from the Museum to create your own printed card or picture to take home.