EN
There were two types of women’s secondary schools in Prussia in the 19th century: so-called lower-secondary schools, that is „mittlere Mädchenschule” and upper-secondary schools, referred to as „höhere Mädchenschule” or „höhere Töchterschule”. The terms „mittlere Mädchenschule” and „höhere Mädchenschule” did not, however, refer to the education level, but it indicated the social group that the schools’ offer was addressed to. By 1908 the Prussian legislation counted only men’s schools as higher schools (in modern sense – secondary schools), amongst which there were gymnasiums – Klassische Gymnasium and Realgymnasium, senior secondary schools – Oberrealschulen, secondary schools – Realschulen, progymnasiums, Realprogymnasium and higher citizen schools (höhere Bürgerschulen). The women’s secondary education in Grudziądz was an integral part of the Prussian school system; thus it was subjected to the processes involving the whole Prussian state. The higher women’s school (Victoriaschule) was founded in 1844. Its establishment resulted from efforts by a teacher of higher citizen school, Gustav Adolf Borrmann, who was the headmaster of this school up to 1888. In order to expand the educational capabilities of young women he contributed to the establishment of teachers’ seminary in 1849, and women’s secondary school (Luisenschule) in 1853. Up to the end of the 19th century the teaching quality reflected the general views on the role of a woman in the society. Special attention was drawn to suitable development of character and preparation to the role of mother and housewife. The changes were introduced only by the reform of 1908. In 1883 in Grudziądz the women’s school of industry and household was founded, with a plant for teachers of manual works and industry. The establishment of such entities resulted from the fact that the society recognised the need for women’s education, which was inevitably linked with social and economical changes in the Prussian state. The take-over of Grudziądz resulted in liquidation of Luisenschule and teachers’ seminary. The girls who wanted to continue their education were afforded the opportunity to attend Victoriaschule, where there were Polish and German department.