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school rules

From Rules for the government of Ackworth School, established for the education of children who are members of the society and whose parents are not in affluent circumstances, pp25-27, 1795.

GENERAL RULES

To be strictly observed by the CHILDREN at ACKWORTH-SCHOOL, and to be read to then once a Month.

1. THAT they rise a 6 o'clock in the morning in the summer, and 7 in the winter; and dress themselves quietly and orderly, endeavouring to begin the day in the fear of the Lord, which is a fountain of life, preserving from the snares of death.

2. That they wash their faces and hands, and at the ringing of the bell collect themselves in order, and come decently into the schools; that they take their seats in a becoming manner, without noise or hurry, and begin business when the master or mistress shall direct.

3. That they refrain from talking and whispering in school; and that when repeating their lessons to the master or mistress, they speak audibly and distinctly.

4. That they shall not be absent from school, nor go out of bounds without leave.

5. That when the bell rings for breakfast, dinner, or supper, they assemble in silence, and in due order, having their faces and hands washed, and their hair combed, and so proceed quietly into the dining-room.

6. That they observe a solemn silence before and after meals; that they eat their food decently, and refrain from talking.

7. That they never tell a lie, use the sacred name irreverenly, or mock the aged and deformed. That when strangers speak to them, they give a modest and audible answer, standing up, and with their faces turned towards those who speak to them.

8. That they avoid quarrelling, throwing sticks, stones, or dirt; striking, or teazing one another: and they are enjoined not to complain about trifles; and when at play, to observe moderation and decency.

9. That they neither buy, sell, nor exchange, without leave; and that they strictly avoid gaming of all kinds.

10. They shall not be possessed nor have the use of more money than one penny each per week; that if any other money be found upon any of them, it shall be taken by the superintendant, and retained or employed for their use.

11. That they observe a sober and becoming behaviour when going to, coming from, and whilst in, religious meetings.

12. That their whole conduct and conversation be dutiful to their masters and mistresses, kind and affectionate to their school-fellows; and that in all cases they observe the command of Christ: " All things whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so to them."

13. That in the evening they assemble themselves, and take their seats in the dining-room; and after answering to their names when called over, and attending to such part of the holy scriptures, or other religious books, as may be read to them, they retire to their bed-chambers, and underss themselves with as much stillness as possible, folding up their clothes neatly, and putting them into their proper places; and they are tenderly advised to close as well as to begin the day with remembering their gracious Creator, whose mercies are over all his works.

See also a description of Ackworth School by Sarah Grubb; morals for children at Ackworth School