Consider a journey back to 1849. St. James C of E Primary School’s story began then. Trust Deeds were drawn up. The renowned Victorian architect Anthony Salvin designed an Infants schoolroom. He also designed a mistress’ house. This was in Fortis Green Muswell Hill. The land was a gift. The Earl of Mansfield who lived at Kenwood donated it. The building also served St James Church Sunday School. It was the only primary school in Muswell Hill for over 60 years.
St. James C of E Primary School opened its doors on 25th July 1850. This day was the feast of St James. Children came from a wide area. This tradition continues today. The school started with 52 children. By 1860, the number rose to 82. An extra classroom was needed. It was completed in 1862. The frontage looked very similar to how it looked when the building was vacated in 1968.
In 1903, the Borough of Hornsey Education Committee took responsibility for St. James. The Vicar, four Foundation Managers and two Local Authority Managers governed the school. Walter Penn became the first Headmaster in 1912.
During the 1930s St James School was re-organised. It became Junior Mixed and Infants. On 1st September 1939 the school was evacuated. They went to Trumpington near Cambridge. Mr. Ivor Plant was the Headmaster. He wrote an interesting account. It described the first few weeks in the new environment. He also described Christmas celebrations. 100 parents joined their children for the day.
In August 1940, St James returned to Muswell Hill. Its reputation for excellence grew. The Local Authority and the Managers began seeking a new site in 1958. The old Cranley Gardens Railway Station was purchased. On 11th June 1968 excited children and teachers moved. They moved into the brand new building in Woodside Avenue. St James Primary School backed onto Highgate Woods. Here it has continued to flourish.
Since then St. James building has been updated. Playgrounds were improved. Classrooms have been refurbished. This ensures that educating children to the highest standards can continue. This is in line with the tradition established in 1850.
Today St. James prides itself on several achievements. It has a curriculum that reflects its school community. It celebrates diversity. The school wants all pupils to thrive. They should have informed curiosity about the world. Pupils should think critically about how to change the world for the better.
The close link to St James Church continues today. The church is well represented on the current Governing Body. The school values of KINDNESS, WISDOM, RESPECT, JOY and PERSEVERANCE underpin its aim. It wants to provide an outstanding education for all. St. James encourages and develops every child academically and socially. The school wants them to flourish confidently. St James Church of England Primary School has a rich history. It continues to provide a warm friendly and inclusive environment for its students.