Hidden in the London Borough of Havering, Raphael Independent School whispers a story of both learning and closure. Raphael Independent School served the community from its opening on Park Lane in Hornchurch, Essex, on October 18, 1974, until its closure on March 30, 2021. At its peak, Raphael Independent School housed 195 students, though the number dwindled to 105 pupils before closing. Interestingly, in 2020, Ms. Raphael School became the headteacher. She followed the previous headteacher, Claudette Salmon. The school catered to a mixed student body from ages 3 to 16, maintaining a selective admissions policy. While its religious character was non-denominational, the school itself was considered “other independent school”. Raphael Independent School didn’t offer a sixth form or nursery classes. Surprisingly, no students at the school received free school meals, a sharp contrast to the nearly 20% average at nearby schools. This independent school’s tale ends with its closure in 2021. The reason simply listed as “closure,” leaving behind a quiet space on Park Lane.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service