How far do the experiences of young Pip in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens reflect the life of minors in the 19th century?

Charles Dickens' Great Expectations is narrated by its young hero, orphan Philip Pirrip, known as Pip, living with his older sister and her husband, blacksmith Joe Gargery, in the Kent marshes. Young Pip lived a life similar to other orphans yet confronted a vast range of improbable incidents, such as helping a fugitive convict. Pip's background, opportunities offered to him, and familial life make his experience uncharacteristic compared to others in a similar position.
From the first page of the novel, Pip enlightens the reader "I never saw my father or my mother ... and infant children…