Women of the Century Database Display
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| Surname | Beszant |
| Forename/s | Sarah L. |
| Other Names | |
| Dates | (c1861 - 1933) |
| Biographical Notes | Born in London, she came to Bradford's Belle Vue School in 1884. Since then Sarah played an important role in the development of schooling in Bradford. Headmistress for forty years at Belle Vue Girls' School, she did much to expand access to secondary education and to promote the study of science by girls. At a time when science was not considered a subject suitable for girls, in addition to Domestic Economy and Hygiene she introduced subjects such as Chemistry, and Physiology into the curriculum. She was also keen on physical education for girls. In her years as headmistress, she guided the school's advance to a Higher Grade School, and twenty years later, to a Secondary School. In 1914 she led the establishment of training classes for girls and women out of work on account of the war. She was president of the National Union of Teachers and frequently contributed papers at educational conferences. |
| Sources Used | U,nwin|| R.W. & St,ephens, W.B.(eds.) (1976) Yorkshire Schools and Schooldays: a guide to historical sources and their uses. The University of Leeds Institute of E,ducation; Yorkshire Observer 15/4/1933 |
| Associated Places | Bradford |