The History of Salisbury High School
Historically the school has a long and interesting history related closely to the number of buildings on the site. The school originates from St Thomas’ Charity School, opened in 1725, which was situated in the High Street next to the Cathedral Close. In 1863 it relocated for the first time to larger premises opposite St Thomas’ Church in St Thomas’ Square. The boy’s schoolroom occupied the ground floor whilst the girls were educated on the first floor. In 1928 educational facilities were entirely reorganised within the City and the Girls’ School ceased to exist.
In 1957 St Thomas’ Boys’ School was relocated to the current site, occupying what is now known as Wyvern Block. In 1958 Westwood Girls’ School opened on the same site (Becket Block). In 1973 the two schools amalgamated and became Westwood St Thomas’ School. As part of the amalgamation Newton Block was erected.
In September 2005, as a result of a review of the education system in West Salisbury, Westwood St Thomas’ School changed from a 13 – 18 school to an 11 – 18 school. A new administration block, including a learning resource centre and computer room, was constructed and a wide range of refurbishment was carried out to prepare for the expansion of pupil numbers. Following these welcome but significant changes, and to reflect the school communities shared vision of the school as it establishes itself in the 21st Century, the school is making some fundamental changes. From September 2006, one of the first changes to come into effect was the re-naming of the school to Salisbury High School.
Salisbury High School remains the only school in Salisbury that is fully comprehensive, co-educational and has a sixth form. It has served Salisbury well for 280 years and is proud to continue to do so.
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