Milestones in The English School History
A Second Century
The English School, Nicosia, has stood as a cornerstone of education in Cyprus since its founding in 1900. With a legacy of academic rigour, inclusivity, and innovation, the School has evolved over the decades, responding to challenges and embracing opportunities to serve its diverse student body.
The English School, Nicosia: A 125-Year Journey of Excellence
1900-1910 - Founding Vision
- 1900: Founded by Canon Frank Darvall Newham, The English School began with 13 boys in a rented house within the medieval walls of Nicosia.
- 1900-1905: Canon Newham introduced sports like football, hockey, and cricket to Cyprus, fostering a holistic educational approach.
- 1909: The school acquired land near the Pedieos River and constructed new premises to accommodate its growing student body.
1910-1920 - Establishing Identity
There was rapid growth in student enrollment, solidifying the School's role as a leading academic institution. Cultural and athletic traditions began to take root, further enriching student life.
- 1912: Relocated to the newly built facilities near the Pedieos River, enhancing educational infrastructure.
- 1914-1918: During World War I, the school continued operations, adapting to the challenges of the time.
The School expanded its reach, attracting students from diverse communities locally and internationally. It became known for its academic rigour and commitment to inclusivity.
- 1930: Control of the school was transferred to the British Governor, marking its transition from a private venture to a government-administered institution.
1930-1940 - A Permanent Home
- 1935: Introduction of The English School Management and Control Law, allowing students of all faiths to practice their religions.
- 1936: The British Army requisitioned the school's premises, prompting a temporary relocation.
- 1938: Moved to its current location opposite the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, providing a permanent home for the institution.
- 1940: Construction of the Lloyds Building as a boarding facility.
1940-1950 - Wartime Challenges
- 1941-1943: Temporarily relocated to the Catselli Hotel in Kyrenia due to World War II, with the Nicosia campus serving as an army hospital.
- 1946: Death of founder Canon Frank Darvall Newham in Kyrenia leaving behind a legacy of innovation and inclusivity.
- 1957: Established an affiliated English School for Girls, expanding educational opportunities.
- 1960: Following Cyprus' independence, control of the school passed to the Cypriot Government.
- 1962: Merged with The English School for Girls, becoming a co-educational institution.
- 1969: Established the 5B4ES amateur radio club, operated by students.
1970-1980 Turbulent Times
Continued growth in student enrollment, exceeding 1,000 by the early 1970s.
- 1974: Political events led to the withdrawal of Turkish Cypriot students and staff. Alks Boarding House became a refugee school, later the Acropolis Gymnasium.
- 1975: Despite challenges, the School maintained its mission to serve all communities and provide quality education.
The Lloyds Boarding House was repurposed as classrooms for younger students.
Focus on modernizing facilities and maintaining high academic standards.
- 1985: Celebrated 85 years of educational excellence, reaffirming its commitment to academic rigor.
- 1988: Introduced new extracurricular programs, enhancing student development.
1990-2000 - A New Era
- 1990: Addition of the Sports Centre, enhancing athletic opportunities for students.
- 1995: Hosted the World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships, showcasing its commitment to global discourse.
- 2000: Celebrated its centenary, marking 100 years of educational service.
2000-2010 - Commitment to Diversity
- 2003: Re-enrolled Turkish Cypriot students, reinstating its bi-communal status. Turkish Cypriot students were welcomed back, emphasizing inclusivity and intercommunal harmony.
- 2004: Unveiled a new science building, modernizing its facilities. Invested in state-of-the-art facilities
2010-2020 - Building for the Future
Continued success in academic and extracurricular activities, with recognition in national and international competitions.
- 2017: The construction of the Newham Building has begun, expanding academic spaces.
- 2018: Complete renovation of the multi-use Sports Centre, with new changing rooms.
- 2019: Opening of a state-of-the-art weights room/gym at the Sports Centre
- 2019: Recognized as a British School Overseas by the UK Department for Education, affirming its adherence to British educational standards.
2020–Present: A Legacy of Excellence 2024:
The School remains a leader in education, fostering inclusivity, academic achievement, and a commitment to serving all Cypriot communities.
- 2020: Introduction of a Tennis Centre with five new tennis courts.
- 2021: Renovation of the Main Football Pitch, installation of a new artificial grass surface, and the addition of two new outdoor basketball courts.
- 2022: Refurbishment of the Athletics Track.
- 2023: Stuart Walker became the current Headmaster, continuing the tradition of visionary leadership.
- 2024: Celebrated outstanding academic achievements, with students earning prestigious awards across 19 categories in the Pearson Learner Awards for the May/June 2024 session. It continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, preparing students for meaningful and fulfilling lives in a global society.
Throughout its 125-year history, The English School, Nicosia, has remained a beacon of educational excellence. It has adapted to changing times while steadfastly upholding its founding principles.
