Did you know Sarah Bonnell School is one of the oldest girls’ schools in England? Its story began in 1769. Sarah Bonnell School has a proud tradition of educating young women.
Sarah Bonnell herself made it all possible. She was a rich woman with a vision. Sarah Bonnell left £3500 in her will. This money was specifically for educating girls. Her generosity shaped countless lives.
The first Sarah Bonnell School was quite modest. It was located opposite West Ham Church. Imagine one schoolroom, one teacher, and forty girls. The school provided all the girls’ uniforms. The Vicar of West Ham Church chose the students. He also appointed a teacher. This teacher had to be a woman of good character. A Board of Trustees oversaw the school’s operations.
By 1834, Sarah Bonnell School had grown. There were now 140 pupils. In 1873, the school changed its name. It became West Ham High School for Girls. The school moved to a new building in West Ham Lane. It became an independent, fee-paying school. Boys up to age 10 were also admitted. Forty free places remained for disadvantaged girls. This honored Sarah Bonnell’s original will. In 1905, the school moved again. This time, it was to a large building in The Grove in Stratford.
The 1920s brought more changes to Sarah Bonnell School. It ceased to be an independent school. In 1938, George Lansbury, a former Labour MP, opened a new school library. World War II forced an evacuation. Sarah Bonnell School moved first to Brentwood. Then, it moved to Truro in Cornwall. This was to escape the bombing of London’s East End docks.
In 1944, the school reclaimed its founder’s name. It became Sarah Bonnell Grammar School. The school moved to St. George’s Road, Forest Gate. Girls had to pass the 11-plus exam to attend this grammar school.
Comprehensive education arrived in Newham in 1972. The school became Sarah Bonnell Comprehensive School. It moved to its current site on Deanery Road. The school took over the buildings of Deanery High School for Girls. It also took over Stratford Green Secondary School.
In 2017 Sarah Bonnell School converted to academy status. The school is now sponsored by the Newham Community Schools Trust.
Sarah Bonnell School maintains its connection to its founder. The Sarah Bonnell Foundation continues to benefit students. It provides funding for reading books. It supports special events like International Women’s Day. It also helps fund residential trips.
Sarah Bonnell School has always valued its students. The school values achievement and well-being. Students developed the school’s values. “Be Proud. Aim High. Work Hard. Be Kind. No Excuses.” These values guide the entire school community. The school fosters a positive environment. Staff inspire girls to be their best.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion are central to Sarah Bonnell’s mission. The curriculum helps students understand British racism. It examines the present-day experience of racism. It teaches actions to promote social justice. The school celebrates students’ culture and identity.
Today, Sarah Bonnell School stands as a testament to Sarah Bonnell’s vision. It is a place where girls learn and grow. They feel safe, valued, and encouraged. The school prepares them to contribute positively to society. Sarah Bonnell School is more than just a school. It is a legacy of empowerment. It’s a place where young women are prepared to shape the world.