Haven’t you heard? Preston Manor School has a history as rich as the curriculum it offers. Established in 1938 as Preston Manor County Grammar School, this institution has transformed over the decades.
Mr. W.P. Bannister was its first headteacher. He led the school until his death in 1963. Preston Manor initially focused on a traditional grammar school education. Science and languages were key. The school’s motto was “Munus prae jure”. It translates to “Duty before right”.
In 1993, Preston Manor embraced technology. It became a Technology College. This was a step toward its future focus. Then, in 2002, Preston Manor became a specialist Science College. Mathematics became an additional specialism.
Preston Manor actively collaborated with local primary schools. They worked together on science projects. This strengthened its community ties.
February 2013 marked another milestone. Preston Manor converted to academy status. Today, Preston Manor is a mixed all-through school. It serves students from ages 4 to 19. It even has a sixth form. The school is located in the London Borough of Brent. Specifically, it’s in the Preston and Wembley Park areas.
As of September 2008, Preston Manor expanded its intake. Forty more students were admitted each year. A £4.5 million project added new facilities. These included a teaching block and a sports hall.
Preston Manor has seen many notable alumni pass through its halls. Footballers Brandon Njoku, Darren Currie and Barry Ashby once walked these corridors. Broadcaster Riz Lateef also learned here. Triple jumper Michelle Griffith honed her skills here. Even musician Lady Sovereign roamed the halls before being expelled. Drummer Kapil Trivedi of Mystery Jets and comedian Ahir Shah attended Preston Manor School.
Bob Blackman, a Conservative MP, attended Preston Manor County Grammar School. Author Simon Bond of “101 Uses for a Dead Cat” also studied here. Barbara Bray, a scholar of French literature, was also a student here. Mike Ellis, an athlete, is also an alumnus of Preston Manor. Raymond Gosling, who worked with the DNA team at King’s College London, also attended.
Preston Manor also boasts notable teachers. Colin Hegarty, creator of HegartyMaths, taught here.
Today, Preston Manor School continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of its diverse student body. The school’s history curriculum reflects this diversity. It ensures students understand different cultures. Preston Manor encourages a love of learning. Curiosity is fostered through challenging historical enquiries. The curriculum explores interesting and thought-provoking topics. Students study the past from various viewpoints. They make connections over time. Preston Manor teaches its curriculum chronologically. This helps students connect events. It further develops their knowledge of history.
Preston Manor’s history makes it a pillar of the community. Its focus on science and technology prepares students for the future. Preston Manor School is more than just a school. It’s a place where young minds grow.