Education
William, born to father John and mother Mary, was believed to be an average child. The lack of records of his childhood, due in large part to his parents both being presumed illiterate, suggest that he had no achievements that were noteworthy to those outside his immediate family. Although no records exist, it is believed that young William attended school. His father had high standing in the community and was elected to the position of Alderman, a member of a municipal assembly or council. As a benefit of this position his children would receive free education. The assumption has been made that William Shakespeare, at least, attended King Edward IV Grammar School and received an education in Stratford from the age of 7 in 1571 and left school and formal education when he was fourteen in 1578. The school is also referred to as the King's New School and was named according to a charter by King Edward VI (Queen Elizabeth's younger brother) in 1553.
The education of the time was directed by the ruling monarch. This included the religion of the King or Queen in power. Queen Elizabeth was a follower of the Protestant religion. Her immediate predecessors to the throne were firm Catholics. As a result of frequent changes in the monarchy, the citizens and the education system were forced to change their beliefs and teachings frequently. This led to confusion, rebellion, and disparaging faith in the students.