A Narvian woman remembers: how gymnasium entrance worked in old Narva

V.M. Kruglova, a longtime Narva resident, recalls how gymnasium admission was conducted in the city long ago. To enter gymnasium, one needed six years of primary education, and entrance exams were mandatory only for homeschooled students.

The memories of Narva's old residents are a historical source in their own right, opening a window to the city's past from a human perspective. V.M. Kruglova, who has lived in Narva for decades, has recorded her memories about the city's school history, describing how gymnasium entrance took place.

According to Kruglova's recollections, six years of primary education was required for gymnasium admission. This requirement ensured that all students entered gymnasium with the same level of educational preparation.

An interesting detail concerns entrance exams: not all applicants had to take them. Exams were mandatory only for those who did not attend school and received their education at home. Children who completed regular school gained admission to gymnasium without additional tests.

Such memories are valuable from the perspective of Narva's historical record, as they reflect everyday life that is often absent from official documents.