The Clare School 1907 – 2023 Making Every Day Special

Featured image

The Clare School is described by Ofsted as: ‘A magical place, filled with joy and happiness, fun and laughter.’

This is much deserved praise for Norwich’s oldest surviving special school. It is a far cry from 1907 when an experimental special-needs class was first set up within the Colman Road School. Now, a book by local history enthusiasts, published by Norwich Heritage Projects, charts the school’s development from its early days.

The Clare School book

In 2021 Michael and Frances Holmes met the headteacher of the Clare School, Rebecca Wicks, at a fundraising event. During their conversation Rebecca mentioned that the school archive contained diaries from its early days, and she asked Michael and Frances if they would like to see them. They discovered the diaries, which were started in 1907 when a dedicated class was started at Colman Road School, gave a fascinating insight into how education for children with special needs has developed in Norwich and outlines what more needs to be done. Further, by combining the diaries with other contemporary reports, documents and also interviews with former pupils, the Holmes’ were able to chart changes in public attitudes and provision for students with disability.

This result of their research is an insightful book charting the history and successes of the school, titled The Clare School 1907 – 2023 Making Every Day Special.

The Clare School book

The book is available from Norwich Heritage Projects’ website and all proceeds from the book go to the Clare School.


Where to Next?

Here’s a few more articles of interest and things for you to do to keep you occupied.

Find out more about local books, including articles on local authors & suggested books

Read articles related to the UEA, including literary events, featuring renowned writers and public figures.

Explore Norfolk’s heritage, where you can find museums (including steam railways), stately homes and gardens.

If you enjoy walks around Norfolk then check out some more of our articles on our Norfolk walks around the county (and just over the county border too) or browse the rest of our articles.

Find things to do or somewhere to stay in Greater Norwich.


Share:
AuthorGreater Norwich

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Categories

Recent Posts