“Achieve Excellence Together” is not just a motto. It is the guiding principle here at Franciscan Primary School.
Franciscan Primary School stands as a beacon of learning established in 1907. The school is set in a Grade II listed building. It is located in the London Borough of Wandsworth. The school caters to children aged 3 to 11.
The school’s architecture reflects early 20th-century educational ideals. Franciscan Primary School was designed by the London County Council Architects’ Department. T.J. Bailey was the architect. The designs date back to 1905. The school was built between 1907 and 1908.
Originally, there were three separate blocks. These blocks were for infants, girls, and boys. Low passages now link them. The Infants’ block faces Franciscan Road. The girls’ and boys’ blocks are identical to the rear. Covered play sheds and lavatories surround the perimeter. A school keeper’s house also stands on the grounds.
The Infants’ block features a near-symmetrical roadside elevation. It was altered in 1938-39. The block has a two-storey, four-bay central section. Single-storey gabled side wings flank it. A hall is located to the rear. The roofs are hipped tile. Terracotta cornices adorn them.
The Girls’ and Boys’ blocks were formerly identical. Additions on the ground floor and covered passages now connect them. Each has a symmetrical northern elevation. Entrances are inscribed ‘BOYS’ or ‘GIRLS’. Round arched stone architraves surround the entrances.
Inside, each block features a six-bay top-lit hall. Single-storey classrooms are arranged around it. Small-paned, part-glazed partitions and doors are typical. Stairs to the upper rooms have square newels and stick balusters.
The Elementary Education Act of 1870 influenced the school’s design. It was intended to provide space, light, and air. Franciscan School represents the London County Council’s response to these developments.
Today, Franciscan Primary School continues to thrive. It aims to enable all pupils to realize their full potential. The school provides opportunities for success. Franciscan Primary School fosters a love of learning. It prepares students for their transition to secondary school. High ambitions, hard work, and high achievement are central here. The school values the cultural diversity of its community.
At Franciscan Primary School, children are taught the importance of good behaviour. They learn to believe in themselves. They are encouraged to never give up. The school cares about their health, happiness, and well-being.
Franciscan Primary School strives for success. It believes all children can achieve excellence. This is achieved through high-quality teaching and learning. The curriculum is exciting, fun, and imaginative.
Walk into any classroom. Expect to find children engaged in thinking and questioning. Like all public sector schools, Franciscan follows the National Curriculum. It also uses the International Primary Curriculum. Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, ICT, History, and more. Religious Education, PSHCE, and French are also taught.
Franciscan Primary School has evolved since its founding. It continues to provide a nurturing environment. It empowers children to achieve excellence together.