Wisbech Grammar School
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Wisbech Grammar School is an independent school in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire for ages five to 18. It was founded in 1379 by the Guild of the Holy Trinity and is therefore one of the oldest surviving schools in England. [1]. In 1905 Wisbech High School was established in Harecroft House on the North Brink, offering the same educational opportunities for girls that the Grammar School offered to boys. The two schools were amalgamated in 1970, the boys moving across the river to share extended premises on the North Brink, and the new school has continued to build upon the traditions of both former establishments.
The school was granted Independent status with effect from 1 September 1983 and a decision was taken by the Governors to increase the size of the school roll. The number of pupils has risen from 400 to nearly 600 and includes approximately 150 in the sixth form. The school is currently a member of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference.
Major expansions of the school buildings have seen the addition of classrooms, four laboratories, computer rooms, a sports hall, assembly hall/theatre and library. A new sports pavilion was completed in 1993 and a £1M performing arts centre was completed in April 2003 with extensive facilities for English and music teaching, drama and music technology.
A junior and Infant department was opened in September 1997. Now known as Magdalene House, the name reflects the school’s long-standing, historical links with Magdalene College, Cambridge.
Their recent school successes have come in sports. The Wisbech Grammar School 1st xv have won 16 out their 17 matches, their loss came in the last 32 of the Daily Mail cup. They have defeated such sides as Wymondham College and Greshams and are considered to be the best rugby school in the east of England this year. This has without doubt been their best season since 1992.
[edit] Notable alumni
- Thomas Herring - Archbishop of Canterbury.
- Thomas Clarkson - abolitionist.
- Zara Dawson - Actress.
- Claire Goose - Actress.
- Anton Rogers - Actor.
- Benjamin Hoyles - England Men's Rugby U18.
- Mark Wadsley - England Men's Hockey U16 & U18.
- Gemma Darrington - Engalnd Women's Hockey U16 & U18.
[edit] References
- Rev. John L. Blake, "Thomas Herring", A biographical dictionary: comprising a summary account of the lives of the most distinguished persons of all ages, nations, and professions; including more than two thousand articles of American biography. (Philadelphia,: H. Cowperthwait & co., 1859). pg. 588. [2]
- H.L. White, A History of Wisbech Grammar School, (Wisbech, 1939).
