Students from Barnard Castle School took part in Founders Day celebrations sharing with parents a history dating back centuries.
Years 6 Prep School pupils told guests attending the thanksgiving that education in Barnard Castle could be traced back to 1066, with its educational, spiritual and historical roots also linked to the nearby Hospital of St John, which was founded by John de Balliol in 1229.
Prominent English Quaker Benjamin Flounders, who had interests in new industries including the Stockton and Darlington Railway, left money on his death in 1846 to support the development of education in Barnard Castle.
In May 1882 Queen Victoria signed the Foundation document with the North East County School opening in Middleton One Row the following year. Later that year the school’s Foundation stone was laid and in 1886 lessons began on the current site in Barnard Castle’s Newgate.
Prep School opened in Westwick Lodge in 1914 and in 1992 the entry age was lowered to seven and it became co-educational, with Pre-Prep opening in 1996.
Deputy headmistress Sarah Leonard said: “Everyone of us who calls this school home is stepping in the footsteps of so many who went before us. One thing that remains constant is the strength of the Barney community. No matter where we go we are part of something greater. It’s a living, breathing force which will continue to shape future generations for years to come.”
