Ad astra per aspera. This is the motto of Colfe’s School. It means “Through hardships to the stars.”
Colfe’s School is one of the oldest schools in London. Its history stretches back centuries. Today, we will explore the story of this remarkable institution.
The school’s origins lie in 1568. Reverend John Glyn re-established the school. In 1574, it received a charter from Elizabeth I. Abraham Colfe became a governor in 1613. In 1652, the school was re-founded bearing his name. Colfe’s School aimed to educate boys from the Hundred of Blackheath.
Abraham Colfe invited the Leathersellers’ Company to be the school’s trustee. The Leathersellers’ Company is one of London’s livery companies. The link between Colfe’s School and the Leathersellers remains strong to this day. The Leathersellers’ Company has governed Colfe’s School since 1652. Every year Colfe’s pupils visit the Leathersellers’ Hall.
Originally, the school was built around Colfe’s house on Lewisham Hill. It expanded over the years. By 1890, the school was completely rebuilt on the same site. The entrance moved to Granville Park.
The Second World War brought disruption. Colfe’s School evacuated to Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Later, they moved to Frome in Somerset. Some students returned to London during a lull in the war. The school was split for a time. In 1944, a V2 flying bomb almost destroyed the school.
After the war, the school faced uncertainty. The buildings were gone and enrollment was halved. The school operated on two sites. These were Beacon Road School and Ennersdale Road School. Temporary buildings were erected. The school came together again in 1947. Herbert Beardwood was the headmaster at the time. The “temporary” buildings were used until 1963.
In 1963, Colfe’s School moved to its current location. Since then, facilities have greatly improved. An all-weather sports pitch was added. A performing arts center was built. New classroom facilities were created. The Leathersellers’ sports ground was renovated. It became the home of senior sports.
Colfe’s School became independent in 1977. It had been a voluntary aided grammar school before that. Girls were first admitted to the Sixth Form over 30 years ago. In 1997, the school decided to become fully co-educational.
Today, Colfe’s School admits pupils from age 3. They start in the Nursery. They progress to the Junior School at age 4. At 11, they transition to the Senior School.
The Senior School is at the top of the main school site. An all-weather playing field opened in 2006. It was funded by donations. The school has a performing arts center. It also has a sports complex with a swimming pool. There are two gyms and a sports hall.
Colfe’s School has a house system. The houses are named after former Headmasters. They are Beardwood, Bramley, Norton and Prendergast. Glyn House was added in the 2023-24 academic year.
From its humble beginnings to its modern facilities, Colfe’s School has a rich history. It continues to provide excellent education. The school’s motto, “Ad astra per aspera,” reflects its enduring spirit. Through challenges, Colfe’s School continues to reach for the stars.