Brech was born in Kennington to a Hungarian father, who worked as catering manager, and a Bavarian mother. After grammar school, Brech was selected by the Roman Catholic bishop of Southwark to be educated as priest. At that time there was a pilot scheme, that required a university graduation before entering the church. In 1929 Brech obtained his BA in humanities at the London University, declined priesthood, and continued to study economics at London University obtaining his BA in 1932.Peter Starbuck. "Obituary : Edward Brech, Management studies for the benefit of all," in: The Guardian, Tuesday 10 October 2006 At the age of 85 Brech earned his doctorate in British management history through Britain's Open University, where he also was a Visiting Research Fellow. In 2004 he was awarded a higher doctorate (DLitt) for his historical research.Derek Salman Pugh, David John Hickson. "Lyndall F. Urwick and Edward F. L. Brech." in: Great Writers on Organizations, 2007, p. 148.
