top of page

Tools of the Trade for Teachers

  • Feb 25, 2021
  • 1 min read

Back in the 19th century teachers had some interesting items for discipline in schools. Two items are illustrated here.

Firstly, the image above is of some children's finger stocks... These were used in the 18th and 19th century and are described in an article known as the 'Penrose Method,' which was a description of the theory and practice of education at the academy run by Dr and Mrs Penrose in the Victorian times.


Most of their punishments were with the objective of keeping wayward children immobile: each child would be in a position of discomfort depending on how badly they had behaved.

The finger stocks were relatively minor. The child's fingers were placed into the holes of the stocks with the child's hands back to back behind their back. They were then expected to stand before the teacher and repeat the lesson that they had failed.

Other items used by the Penroses were wooden gags, wrist or arm stocks, strap and wood restraining harnesses to name a few.



On a lighter note, the second picture is of the teacher's clicker, clicket or snapper. These were used to catch the attention of distracted pupils. By applying pressure and then quickly releasing the trigger, a click would be produced.This is an earlier example where the trigger is held to the head by a leather/gut loop, later examples were spring loaded. How times have changed...




 
 
 

129 Comments


guptaclinicdrpk
3 days ago

As a patient, I was dealing with my problem for a long time and felt very uncomfortable talking about it. After learning about Dr. PK Gupta, I decided to visit Dr. PK Gupta's Super Speciality Clinic, and it was the best decision for me. Dr. PK Gupta is very understanding, patient, and professional. He listens carefully and explains everything in simple words, which made me feel relaxed and confident.

The treatment I received was effective, and I started seeing improvement within a short time. What I really liked was the personal attention and complete privacy maintained at the clinic, which is very important for such issues.

If anyone is searching for a trusted Sexologist clinic in Chandigarh, I would honestly…

Like

nathan john
nathan john
5 days ago

These antique teaching tools are a wonderful reminder of the dedication and discipline found in early education. It is fascinating to see how these practical items helped shape the learning environments of the past with such simple yet sturdy craftsmanship. A truly nostalgic look at the foundations of the classroom!

And when I take a quick break, I usually just check out inat tv canlı maç izle since it’s simple and quick to use.


Like

SPJ Advocate
SPJ Advocate
5 days ago

As Advocate Sunita Sharma, Founder of SPJ Advocates, this piece offers an interesting look into historical teaching practices, though it also highlights how far we’ve come in understanding children’s rights and humane education.

Today, such disciplinary methods would be considered a violation of basic human rights and child protection laws. Modern legal frameworks strongly emphasize dignity, safety, and emotional well-being in educational environments.

At SPJ Advocates, we actively support awareness around legal rights, child protection, and fair practices, along with providing services as a trusted divorce lawyer in Gurgaon. Our expertise also includes family law, child custody, domestic violence, civil litigation, and criminal matters, ensuring that individuals and families receive proper legal guidance and protection.

The evolution from such practices…


Like

Tanya Singh
Tanya Singh
Apr 14

MBBS in Philippines is a popular choice for students who want affordable medical education with practical learning exposure. Many universities offer English-medium programs, which makes the learning process easier for international students. Before applying, it is important to check eligibility, fees, and university recognition carefully.


Like

Agile Regulatory
Agile Regulatory
Apr 09

Great overview of the GACC Registration Process in Gujarat for 2026. The steps are clearly explained and very helpful for exporters navigating compliance updates. For anyone seeking expert guidance, check out agile regulatory for professional support in documentation, approvals, and smooth registration. Looking forward to more insightful posts like this.

Like
Featured Posts
Recent Posts
Search By Tags
Archive
OPUS ANTIQUES
 
We first became involved in Antique Treen and furniture some twenty five years ago and since then a passion for Treen, small wooden snuff boxes and decorative wooden items has developed into Opus Antiques.


This web site shows only a  small selection of our current stock for sale, if you are looking for something you don't see, please contact us.

 

We are also interested in buying Antique Treen items. As well as using our Contact page, you can also email or telephone us on 07941 285532

To unsubscribe to any Email newsletters please contact us to remove your information.

ANTIQUE TREEN

​The word Treen is derived from the word tree and is a term used to describe wooden household objects, all turned from one piece of wood e.g. a bowl, plate, gingerbread mould, and spoons, always having a function.

Nowadays when we talk about Antique Treen it tends to cover all small wooden items including antique snuff boxes, candle stands, spice towers, etc. often made from several pieces of turned wood.

 

When a piece of wood has been painstakingly turned or carved, handled, polished and loved over a few hundred years old, it can develop a wonderful colour and patina and becomes an irresistible piece of Antique Treen.

  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
Screenshot 2023-03-26 at 15.17.09.png
Screenshot 2023-03-26 at 15.17.09.png

Address: Devon      Contact Telephone: 07941 285532       Email:opusantiques@hotmail.co.uk

bottom of page