The experience of a colonial headmaster: the education and political life of J. E. Bromby 1858-1875

© 1993 Richard J. MorganThe early growth and development of a boys public school which later becomes an important public school in a modern society is always a worthy and legitimate subject for historical and educational study. Therefore, the study of the development of the Melbourne Church of England Boys Grammar School in Victoria and how one man contributed to that development is an interesting and important study in its own right. Therefore this thesis examines the contribution and work of Dr John Edward Bromby, the founding headmaster of Melbourne Church of England Boys Grammar School. It covers the years 1858-1875. The thesis examines Bromby's work at the Grammar school and the influences that contributed to Bromby's particular style of headmastership. Some of these influences include the effect of the work of Thomas Arnold on Bromby, the influence of Bromby's religious and own educational ideas and the intermeshing of the general public school ideal in the Victorian colony as reflected in the public school rivalry both in sport and in academic achievements as shown by success in the Matriculation exam. Furthermore, the thesis examines Dr Bromby's contribution to the Higinbotham Royal Commission on public school education between 1866-1867, his writings and contribution to public debate on important controversial issues, both religious and secular, which pervaded the Victorian colony in the late 1860's and early 1870's. Finally, some overall assessment is made of Dr John Edward Bromby's work while occupying the position of headmaster at the Melbourne Boys Grammar School and his general influence on the society of Victoria both in public debate and on matters religious