Founded in 1854 the City of London Freemen’s School stands before you a testament to history and education. Originally in Brixton it now graces Ashtead Park Surrey. This isn’t just any school. It’s a legacy. A place where generations have learned grown and thrived.
The City of London Corporation established the school. It was initially designed to educate orphans of city freemen. Today it’s a thriving co-educational day and boarding school. Children of freemen still receive special consideration. They are known as Foundationers. The City Corporation continues to fund this remarkable institution.
Imagine the school in 1892. Over 150 students. The Lord Mayor of London visited annually. Fifth and sixth formers were granted a rare treat. They could walk and talk together in the grounds after the ceremony. Such small freedoms were quite significant in those days.
The school moved to its present location in 1926. Ashtead Park provided a grand setting. The transformation from a private house to a school was a major undertaking. Fee-paying day pupils were admitted. The word ‘orphan’ was then dropped from the school’s name.
Expansion continued through the decades. New facilities sprang up. A swimming pool an assembly hall and numerous classrooms were added. The school population swelled to over 500. The Junior School was even named Kemp House after a significant headmaster.
The school celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2004 with a year-long event. The celebrations culminated in a float in the Lord Mayor’s Show. What a spectacle that must have been!
Further development has continued. A new swimming pool and a renovated Sixth Form Centre are just some of the improvements. Recently a new Independent Living Suite has also opened. This offers Year 13 students independent living experience before heading off to university or elsewhere.
The City of London Freemen’s School isn’t just brick and mortar. It’s about legacy. It’s about opportunity. It’s a story etched in the lives of countless students. From orphans to renowned actors and athletes this school has helped shape lives. Their stories are as diverse and fascinating as the history of the institution itself. And you are standing at the beginning of it all.