William Wadley, Head Master of The National School

William “Shakey” Wadley seen here with other Wivenhoe teachers and monitors, was Head Master of the Boys School in Wivenhoe for 35 years between 1891 and 1926. He was the son of a retired Master Mariner named Captain William Wadley.

According to research by Dick Barton for his book “Wivenhoe, Its Attractions, Pleasures and Eccentrics”, Mr Wadley said there were 2 types of boy, “apt pupils” and “lively lads”.

A pupil could become a “monitor” aged 13 and at 14 years some students progressed to “indentured teacher” or “pupil teacher” with greater responsibility.

Harry Charles Cook, third from left back row, became a pupil teacher in 1891. He qualified to become an assistant master, working at The National School between 1899 and 1905.

In 1899 a newly qualified male teacher was earning £50 per year.  Pay rises were incremental. In 1900 trained male staff received £60 and females £42/10/- ( £42 and 10 shillings). Mr Wadley was paid £120 that year.

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