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What Were Ancient Egyptian Schools Like?

Ancient Egyptian school

MessageToEagle.com – Ancient Egyptian schools were in some way similar to the Eduba, ancient scribal school in Mesopotamia.

Students in ancient Egypt were mainly wealthy boys who started school at an age of 7. They were taught how to read and write. Children studied mathematics, sports as well as morals and manors.
Under the ancient Egyptian law girls were equal to and could inherit land. Education was not a privilege just for boys and there is evidence even girls went to school and some even became doctors. Unfortunately, only the daughters of wealthy nobles received an education in reading or writing.

It must also be stated very few careers were open to most women. Most women trained for motherhood and on how to be a good wife. Some women became dancers, entertainers, weavers, or bakers.
Just like in ancient in Mesopotamia there were a number of rules students had to follow in school. Not all children enjoyed going to school and if they didn’t’ attend lessons they were punished.


This higher level of education included learning what was called “Instruction of Wisdom.” The “Instruction of Wisdom” included lessons on ethics and morality. This higher level of education also focused on skills needed for higher status positions such as doctor or scribe. The educational track that a student followed was typically determined by the position that the father held in society. However, students who showed ability were able to receive training for higher status jobs.

See also:

Eduba: Scribal School In Ancient Mesopotamia

What Was Life Like For Children In Ancient Athens?

What Was It Like To Be A Student In The Middle Ages?

More Fascinating Ancient History Facts

The Prince’s School was the most respected of all of the schools and gave the very best Ancient Egyptian education. There the sons of the Pharaoh, members of the royal family, nobles and high officials, would receive education. There was also a scheme which allowed recommendations when young boys who showed great promise were also allowed in the Prince’s school. The Vizier had overall control of the Prince’s school and therefore the education of the next Pharaoh, nobles and court officials.
Archaeological discoveries show ancient Egyptian classrooms resembled modern ones, and writing on the walls with schools rules.
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