In the Observer Magazine issue published on the 24th of January 1965, private primary schools were under scrutiny in the "Report on our prep schools," written by Paul Ferris. According to Ferris, all of these schools are on the verge of collapse, except for the most competitive and established ones. Ferris claimed that politics was the main cause of this fear; these schools may become a vulnerable target of the political system, which could seriously undermine their existence.
Ferris wrote that many prep schools were located around London, occupying converted Victorian buildings, and while some of them were moderately good, others lacked quality compared to state schools and relied solely on their snobbish allure. Even the most prominent preparatory schools were on guard, and one Birmingham headmaster threatened to grind his axes to anyone who dared to interfere with his business.
Some snobbish teachers at prep schools showed contempt for state schools and people, which Ferris found disturbing. Ferris mentioned a senior master who complained heavily about a nearby town, R—-, that had too many "awful-looking people," half of whom couldn’t read or write. When it came to sex education, some school heads refused to introduce it to boys, reasoning that it might give them "ideas."
Despite the criticisms and shortcomings mentioned by Ferris, some prep schools seemed to have an exciting atmosphere that helped to create a unique experience for the students. For instance, some masters had unique nicknames, which the boys used, earning respect from their peers when they finally had the courage to call them by their moniker.
In conclusion, Ferris’ report painted a bleak picture for these private prep schools, which depended entirely on the loyalty of public schools to exist. Ferris’ assessment mainly identified vulnerabilities that made these schools susceptible to political interference, which, if not addressed, could threaten their existence.
