Founded in 1571 St Olave’s Grammar School boasts a rich history. It’s a testament to enduring educational excellence. Imagine a time of Shakespearean London. The school’s origins lie in the voluntary efforts of Southwark’s citizens. They established educational institutions for the parish’s children. A brewer named Henry Leeke’s generous legacy enabled St Olave’s to begin on Michaelmas Day 1561. Queen Elizabeth I granted the school its Royal Charter in 1571. St Olave’s occupied various sites in Southwark. Its most recent location before 1968 was near Tower Bridge. The school’s move to Orpington marked a new chapter. Today its attractive buildings are surrounded by expansive playing fields.
St Olave’s and its sister school St Saviour’s and St Olave’s Girls’ School are part of an Anglican Foundation. St Olave’s also became affiliated with the Woodard Corporation. This corporation comprises various independent and maintained schools. These affiliations support a strong set of values within a multicultural school community. St Olave’s continues its links to its heritage. An annual Commemoration Service takes place in Southwark Cathedral. The service includes governors benefactors staff students and parents. The treble choristers of the King’s Chapel of the Savoy are exclusively from St Olave’s. They occasionally perform before members of the Royal Family. The school’s financial support comes from the Foundation. This foundation is a beneficiary of The Dulwich Estate. The estate was formerly Alleyn’s College of God’s Gift.
The school has a long and fascinating history. It faced many challenges including relocation and controversy. In 2017 parents threatened legal action. The action was against the school’s policies on sixth-form entry. The policies led to student exclusions. The London Borough of Bromley instituted an inquiry. The inquiry’s critical report was published in July 2018. The school was also at the center of controversy in 1996. Labour Party Shadow Cabinet minister Harriet Harman sent her son to the school. This action occurred despite her party’s opposition to grammar schools. The school’s location was also quite distant from her home. Despite these controversies St Olave’s maintains a high reputation. Every year many pupils compete for places in Year 7. The school’s commitment to education remains strong. It continues to shape the lives of its students. St Olave’s Grammar School stands as a symbol of perseverance and academic achievement. It has a legacy spanning centuries.