Children in the classroom, St Michael's Orthopaedic Hospital, Marine Parade East, Clacton on Sea, Essex
Children in lessons whilst staying in hospital for treatment. The original caption for this photograph was 'Cripple children at their lessons'. In the early 20th century the word 'cripple' was used to describe people with any physical disability. It is no longer considered an acceptable term to use. St Michael’s Orthopaedic Hospital provided accommodation for over 80 patients. It was recognised that “fresh air and sunlight formed an essential basis for treatment in children. In the 1930s, open-air orthopaedic hospitals were built across England. Many were responsible not only for treatment, but also for the education and training of patients; so the children’s education was continued whilst they were patients at the Hospital.
Location
Essex Clacton on SeaPeriod
World War Two (1939 - 1945)Themes
