Kalbar School of Arts Memorial Hall

The first institute was established in London in 1824 to improve the education of working men by instructing them in various trades. These institutes became popular and soon became a movement. Across the 19th century their role broadened to deliver adult education in general. The concept was soon adopted throughout the British Empire during the 19th century. The first School of Arts in Queensland

was established in Brisbane in 1849 to provide services to the community in literary, philosophic and scientific subjects. Once again their popularity grew and by the late 1890s some 350 schools were established across Queensland. The “Arts” in School of Arts should be considered as manual arts or practical skill training. Function:

Quite clearly the Schools of Arts in Queensland adopted a broader approach to community education and social development. For the first School of Arts committee in Queensland, established in Brisbane in 1849, the aim was ‘the advancement of the community in literary, philosophic and scientific subjects’. Across time these schools were highly valued as adult education providers and as venues for social activities within the community . The government made land available, assisted with building costs and the purchase of books. Renting of the school facilities to the community was also an important source of revenue. Key functions of Schools of Arts included:

- Technical classes (part of the education charter of a school) until 1908 when the function was taken over by a Technical College Committee.
- Library services (albeit by subscription) until the 1970s. In the late 19th century books were scarce and expensive so this service was highly valued by the aspiring and rising middle classes.
- Adult education activities.
- Providing a venue for community activities (e.g. room rental)

Current Status:

Schools of Arts played an important role in the community from the mid-19th century to almost the mid-20th century. However, the services they provided are now by enlarge delivered through the state government or local councils. For example, as the cities have grown the technical classes have been taken over by state government departments, and libraries taken over by local councils. This has meant different purpose built premises are used. The Schools of Arts buildings, assets and liabilities have been taken over by the local councils. Nevertheless these buildings are used by local councils to provide social services either by themselves or rental of the facilities. Challenges:

The Schools of Arts movement faced many challenges:

The Queensland Government became responsible for technical education in 1908. So it wasn’t long before technical education was conducted elsewhere. Financial support was withdrawn during the depression years which made it difficult for many schools to survive. The Libraries Act of 1943 which provided for free libraries in Queensland caused many schools to close. Library lending was an important source of funding for many schools. The need to relocate, extend and maintain buildings during the early years of growth and independence.

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