Whilst on the subject of schoolmasters I found confirmation earlier this year that the brother of my 5 x great grandfather was the schoolmaster at Lythe (just north of Whitby) in the early 18th century. I believe he taught there as early as the 1720s, but a document places him in this role in 1741 and he didn't die until 1764. Does anyone know if any formal qualifications would have been needed for the post in those days other than being able to read and write, and are there likely to be any records relating to him. I assume as this was a coastal village the children he taught would have been those of local farmers and fishermen. Any information would be appreciated. Margaret O'Shea Oxford