Mitchell, Major Robert (1855-1933), Director of Education

Honorable Secretary 1871, Secretary 1878, founded the PTA 1888, Director of Education 1891.

Son of a policeman, Alfred Mitchell, who was security to Prince Albert
Worked as an apprentice to a metal worker in Bloomsbury making large metal-framed lamps
Attended bible classes at the Boys' Institute set up by Quintin Hogg after hearing about it from a patron of the metal shop he was working in.
Began to take active part in the organisation, becoming Hon Sec in 1871, then a paid Secretary in 1878.
He was the driving force behind the development of the technical classes at the Poly
He organised the Christmas Dinner Fund and the annual Children's Christmas Party from 1888.
Founded the PTA in 1880s, purchasing the Chalets at Lucerne in 1893.
Became Director of Education in 1891.
Active in 1908 Olympic organisations - providing ceremonies and facilities for athletes.
Oversaw the rebuilding of 309 Regent Street in 1910-1911.
During WW1 - involved with Red Cross and training for munitions workers. Developed training for wounded men, becoming Director of Training to the Ministry of Pensions Oct 1917-May 1919.
Awarded a CBE in 1918.
Set up Annual Scholarship and Medal in his name.
Retired as Director of Education in 1922, remained Vice President and a Governor.
Oversaw PTA until 1924 when Cmdr R Studd became Managing Director.
Awarded the Order of St John of Jerusalem in 1905 by King Edward (and kept it quiet from the Polytechnic); the Swedish order of Knight of the Polar Star by King Oscar in 1907; Officier de l'instruction Publique (France).
Mr Brownsword carried out a bronze casting of Mitchell for the plaque in the Regent Street Foyer.