Hedge schools (Irish names include scoil chois claí, scoil ghairid and scoil scairte) were small informal secret and illegal schools, particularly in 18th-century Ireland, teaching the rudiments of religious education to children of 'non-conforming' faiths (Catholic and Presbyterian). Prior to the 1792 repeal of the Education Act 1695, only schools run by subscribers to the Anglican faith were allowed to operate. Instead, Catholics and Presbyterians set up secret and illegal schools that met in private homes.[1]
- ^ Lyons, Tony (26 October 2016). "'Inciting the lawless and profligate adventure'—the hedge schools of Ireland". History Ireland.