Christ's Hospital is one of the oldest boarding schools in England. Established in the 16th century, it maintains a unique and distinct identity based on a rich legacy of Tudor traditions, distinctive dress and royal connections.
In 1552 the young King Edward VI responded to an impassioned sermon on the needs of London's poor, delivered by Nicholas Ridley, Bishop of London. At the King's instruction, the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Richard Dobbs, assembled a committee of leading citizens to devise ways to assist the City's homeless and impoverished, and provide food, clothing, lodging and 'a little learning for fatherless children and other poor men's children'. Christ's Hospital was consequently founded in the old buildings vacated by the Grey Friars in Newgate Street, and in November 1552 opened its doors to 380 pupils. Within a year, the number had increased to over 500.
In 1902 Christ's Hospital moved from the City of London to Horsham, where it is situated in 1,200 acres of stunning Sussex countryside. Today the School has over 800 pupils with an equal number of boys and girls. The vast majority of Bluecoats are boarders.
One of the highlights of the Verrio Tour is the magnificent dining hall, which houses the impressive 87-foot-long painting by Antonio Verrio. This commemorates the School's second Royal Charter granted by Charles II in 1673 and the founding of the Royal Mathematical School.
The senior students who will guide us on our tour will also give us an insider's view of the school and what makes it a school like no other.
You can find more information about the School on its website here
What makes Christ's Hospital "a school like no other?" Just ask the pupils
To watch the famous March into Lunch, Old Blues Day, April 2013, click here
Music is the beating heart of the school. To find out more, follow this link
VERRIO TOUR, CHRIST'S HOSPITAL
This is a half-day, self-drive visit aimed at members who may find all-day visits a bit strenuous. CH is as close to the centre of Horsham as our usual departure point at Hop Oast. Car sharing is encouraged, but there are plenty of free parking spaces close to the School Reception, where we will assemble. Please note that the tour, which will be conducted by senior Bluecoats students, starts promptly and latecomers will not be admitted.
See DOCUMENTS below for a map of the School, including parking.
Planned programme for the day: TBC
9.30: Assemble in Visitors' car park
9.45: Check in at School Reception
10.00 – 10.20: Assemble at Hertford Centre / welcome + intro by Museum Curator
Coffee & refreshments available (not incl. in price); toilet facilities
10.20 – 11.30: Guided tour of school, buildings & grounds led by student Verrio guides
11.30 – 12.15: Visit to museum
12.30 – 12.45: Watch famous Band Parade & students marching into Dining Room from Quad (weather permitting)
12.45 – 1.30: Light lunch in Court Room beneath the watchful eyes of King Edward VI
13.35: Depart
Cost: £40 pp. Trip includes guided Verrio Tour & a light lunch.
Note from Christ's Hospital to all visitors:
"The Band Parade and the March into Lunch do not take place if it is wet and we apologise for any disappointment that may cause. Tours, however, take place in all weathers and involve a fair bit of walking (roughly 5,000 steps, two-and-a half miles or about an hour at a leisurely pace. Walkways are level, but visitors are reminded to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. If anyone needs assistance due to mobility difficulties, please let us know in advance."
