Classes of 50 children sitting in strict rows, no computers, no games, no outings and teachers used a cane for discipline. Life at a Cardiff school celebrating its 120th birthday this term was very different when it first opened in 1902.
At the turn of the 20th century Millbank Primary was known as Ely Council School. At that time Ely was a small village centred on the bridge, the Boer War had just ended and the country was getting ready for the coronation of King George after the death of Queen Victoria.
Life at the school is unrecognisable today, although some of the old building remains. As they prepare to celebrate their school’s 120th birthday with a party later this month children at Millbank have been learning what life was like for the pupils in the last century. You can read what inspectors say about Cardiff schools in 2022 here.
