The Blewcoat School, in Westminster, was founded in 1688 for the education of poor children. The present building - comprising one large room - was erected in 1709. The great boom in education took place in the 19th century when, by mid-century, over 95 per cent of children were educated for between five and seven years. Private education was continuing to develop fast. This was before state education began. State education took over or destroyed the private schools. This one is now a National Trust gift shop and information centre.