The Museum of Cambridge opens a new exhibition “Educating Cambridge” exploring Cambridge education in ragged schools, workhouses, and Victorian classrooms, looking at stories of gender roles, poverty and activism. 

“Educating Cambridge” is a temporary exhibition that examines the intersections of class and education in Victorian Cambridge. Visitors are invited to see how approaches and access to learning differ across socio-economic backgrounds and gender. 

The exhibit provides the opportunity to see a selection of never-before-seen artwork, diary entries, photography, and needlework which show gender roles, poverty, and activism in Cambridge and Cambridgeshire education systems. 

Telling the story of Leah Manning and her work and activism as a woman who taught and campaigned for children’s learning and wellbeing the exhibition is excited to host a banner celebrating Cambridge women who campaigned for children’s health and wellbeing by Carey Bennet. The exhibition highlights how education has varied across social classes and genders and introduces some of the people and communities in Cambridge and Cambridgeshire that pulled together to provide basic education for those in need. 

The Museum holds a collection which stretches from the late 1600s through to the 20th century and this latest exhibition is part of the Museum’s ongoing efforts to celebrate the social history of Cambridgeshire.   

“Educating Cambridge” will open on Thursday, 24th of October, and remain on display until Monday, 24th of March 2025. The Museum is open Monday, Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm, and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm, and standard entry applies.  

Companion Talks

The Museum is delighted to host talks to accompany our exhibition:

‘Leah Manning’s Legacy: Cambridge, Women’s Rights, and Spanish Refugees’

Thursday 5 December, 1:00-2:00pm

A “lifelong champion” of women’s and children’s causes, Leah Manning’s journey takes her from teaching to advocating for worker’s rights, to supporting the evacuation of children in the Spanish Civil War. Join Peter Cunningham as he discusses the legacy and life of Leah Manning.

Find out more: Leah Manning’s Legacy: Cambridge, Women’s Rights, and Spanish Refugees – The Museum of Cambridge

Accessibility

You can read about our accessibility information on our website here Accessibility – The Museum of Cambridge. If you’d like to chat through any accessibility requirements, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01223 355159 or email enquiries@museumofcambridge.org.uk. Visitors with additional needs are welcome to bring a supporter or carer who will be admitted to the event free of charge.

Getting Here

We are in the centre of Cambridge. You’ll find us at the corner of Castle Street and Northampton Street. We are right beside Kettle’s Yard and only a 15-minute walk from King’s College.

You can park your bike at the bike parks on Bridge Street or on Northampton Street. There is a bus stop on Bridge Street. Check out the Stagecoach website to plan your journey to and from the Museum. Find out more about how to get here by train, bike, bus, car or on foot on our website.

Healthy Events

If you’re feeling unwell or have recently tested positive for Covid-19, please do not attend this event. We’ll be happy to offer you a refund if applicable, and welcome you at the Museum on another day.