Wymondham College has a rich and fascinating history, evolving from its humble beginnings as a grammar school to its current status as a thriving independent co-educational day and boarding school.
Early Beginnings:
* 1530s: The school's history can be traced back to the 1530s when the "Free Grammar School" was established by Thomas Greene, a local merchant.
* 1545: The school's charter was granted by King Henry VIII, who also funded the building of the first schoolhouse.
* 16th - 19th Centuries: The school thrived for centuries, providing a classical education for boys in the local area. It experienced periods of both prosperity and hardship, surviving through various changes in leadership and funding.
Transition and Expansion:
* 1860s: The original schoolhouse was replaced with a new building, and the school moved to its current location on the outskirts of Wymondham.
* 1960s: The school became a direct grant grammar school, receiving funding from the government but maintaining its independence.
* 1970s: The school adopted a new co-educational policy, opening its doors to girls for the first time.
Modern Era:
* 1980s: The school became fully independent, transitioning to a fee-paying institution.
* 1990s - Present: Wymondham College underwent a period of significant expansion, building new facilities, attracting a wider student body, and gaining a reputation for academic excellence.
* Present Day: Today, Wymondham College is a leading independent school with a strong academic record, offering a comprehensive range of subjects and extracurricular activities for its students. It has established itself as a thriving and diverse community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
Key Milestones:
* 1530s - Foundation of the Free Grammar School
* 1545 - Charter granted by King Henry VIII
* 1860s - Relocation to current site and new building
* 1970s - Introduction of co-education
* 1980s - Transition to fully independent status
* 1990s - Present - Expansion and development of facilities
Legacy and Future:
Wymondham College remains committed to its founding principles of providing a high-quality education for all its students. With a rich history and a bright future, it continues to be a vital part of the Wymondham community and a leading educational institution in the region.