Bedford School

:Bedford School is not to be confused with Bedford Modern School

History

The school was founded in 1552, much aided by the actions of Sir William Harper (indeed, the school is now one of four in a group of schools run by the Harpur trust), when King Edward VI granted letters patent.

Related Topics:
1552 - Edward VI

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In 1979, the school suffered a devastating arson attack during the night, and the imposing main building was gutted by fire. The flames leapt to an astonishing 130ft high. The fire was fought throughout the night, into the early morning of Sunday 4th March, and when it had finally been beaten, the extent of the damage was revealed: Over 90% of the building had been destroyed by the blaze and 30 classrooms lost. Remarkably, almost all of the pupil-records were recovered, but the extensive collection of portraits, books and furniture were destroyed. The school re-opened the next week using temporary classrooms for the pupils.

Related Topics:
1979 - Arson

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