Mr. Briggs is a 40-year-old deputy principal who enjoys organization and order. He has a strict and serious personality. While he initially believes he can change the misbehaved children in the Progress Class, he comes to understand they are from poor families and it is too late to properly educate them. After connecting with Carol and seeing her enjoyment at the funfair, Mr. Briggs begins to soften in his approach, though he ultimately returns to destroying photos that show his softer side.