Schoolchildren are barring the teacher from the classroom until the holidays for the next year have been agreed. This was a North-East custom which took place on the 29th of May.
Hedley has shown children of many different ages being taught together in a shabby country schoolroom. Although some of the children’s clothes are patched, they seem happy and healthy.
A writing slate lies on the floor. Children used a slate pencil, wiping the slate clean when they had finished.

Provenance: Given by Colonel T.A. Higginbottom, 1933

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne & Wear
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: Ralph Hedley (1848-1913)
Date: 1896

Image Details
Date: 15 April 2023
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Telephoto Camera 52mm ƒ/2.4
Focal Length: 52mm
Aperture: ƒ/2.4
Shutter Speed: 1/30s
ISO: 800
Licensing: Image of a North East Museums asset. This image cannot be licensed.