The philosophy of physical education taught at
early twentieth century colleges—including Bedford Physical Training College—was
based on the Swedish system of gymnastics devised by Pehr Henrik Ling
(1776-1839). His method was described in the Syllabus of Physical Exercises for
Elementary Schools, 1909. There is a copy in Bedford Campus Library 613.7071
GRE.
The Syllabus describes the exercises in detail,
but also adds guidance on uniform suitable for PE and games. This same uniform was
worn by Bedford Physical Training College. It consisted of a tunic, a jersey or
blouse and knickers. Photographic evidence in the Bedford Physical Education Archive shows that students
were wearing this uniform during a range of activities such as gymnastics,
tennis and lacrosse. The uniform remained in use from the foundation of the College in 1903 until the late
1930s without any changes. From 1940 onwards less restrictive styles of clothing were introduced.
Bedford Library’s archive holds examples
of uniforms worn by students from the early 1900s through to the 1980s, an
important source to study the uniform development through time.
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| Image: Syllabus of Physical Exercises for Schools 1909 'A suitable Dress for Girls' |
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