Victorian School Provision for Pupils with Special Needs

The Salem School for deaf and mute children was founded in 1881. This pamphlet providing information on the school was published by the Leeds School Board and uses language we now recognise as offensive.

The front cover reads: Leeds School Board Deaf and Dumb Department. Salem School, Hunset Road.

The back cover reads: The school was established in 1881 with 14 pupils on roll. During the first two years the classes met in the forenoon only: but in 1883 the Board opened the School for whole-day Instruction and the room was enlarged to accommodate the increased number of Scholars. Instruction is given in Drawing, and an Examinationis conducted annually by the Science and Art Department. Drill has been introduced and appears to improve the physique of the children. The girls are taught Plain Needlework. The Sunday Class for instruction in Scripture continues to be fairly well attended. The attendance at this class is of course voluntary.

A branch of the localy Yorkshire Penny Bank has been opened at the school, and deposits can be recieved at 9a.m. or 4 p.m.

New pupils can be admitted at any time.