Wonder how St Paul’s CofE Primary School started? The school has a fascinating history rooted in Christian education.
St Paul’s CofE Primary School emerged from a Sunday school. It was attached to St Paul’s Church on Avenue Road. The Church of England organization called the National Society originally set it up. The National Society promoted religious education. It also supported those involved in Christian education.
Initially, the school occupied rooms in King’s College Mews. This was off King’s College Road. In 1872, a significant step was taken. A 99-year lease was granted for land on Winchester Road. The old school was built in 1873. It had separate rooms for boys, girls and infants. Boys and girls were taught together from ages 5 to 13.
During World War II, St Paul’s faced upheaval. Along with All Souls School on Loudon Road, it was evacuated. The destination was Abbot’s Langley in Hertfordshire. The headmaster bravely remained there throughout the war. After the war ended, everyone returned to Winchester Road. Children from All Souls School joined them. All Souls School had been bombed. St Paul’s Church had also been damaged during the war.
Following the 1944 Education Act, St Paul’s received Voluntary status. It became an Elementary school. It welcomed mixed infants and juniors.
The school continued to evolve. In 1961, plans were made for a new school. It would accommodate 280 pupils. The location was Elsworthy Road. A partial move occurred in 1972. The school relocated to its present site on Elsworthy Road. In 1991, a seventh classroom was added. This allowed the school to provide education from ages 4 to 11.
Today, St Paul’s C E Primary School maintains close ties. It is linked with the parish church of St. Mary’s. Local Anglicans serve on the Governing body. The vicar participates weekly in assemblies and other school activities. Children regularly visit the church. St Paul’s also works closely with the London Diocesan Board for Schools.
St. Paul’s CofE Primary School is now an academy. It is part of the Southwark Diocese Multi Academy Trust. The school joined the trust in February 2019. The diocese supports whole school improvement. Governors and parents are also supportive. The school educates children from 3 to 11 years old.
The school is a caring and worshiping community. St Paul’s aims to partner with families and parish communities. It complements and supports them on their faith journey. They believe all are children of God. Everyone has value. Each contributes their gifts. Together they make up a valued part of the school.
Mrs. Tonnie Read is the principal. The school is located on Worlidge Street in London. St Paul’s Cofe Primary School was inspected on November 26, 2024. Ofsted rated these as good: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management. Early years provision was rated as outstanding.
St Paul’s CofE Primary School has a rich history. It has evolved to meet the needs of its students and community. From its early days to the present, it remains committed to education and faith.