Welcome & History
Our Headmaster
We recognise that children have a wide range of abilities, talents, and personalities, and we work closely with them to provide the support necessary for success. By offering a variety of experiences both in and out of the classroom, students are encouraged to develop creativity, innovation, and lifelong skills for their future endeavours. We are proud of our Alumni network, with many returning to inspire the next generation.
Gillingham School is a friendly, welcoming, and inspiring environment, characterised by high expectations and respectful relationships. Our students feel safe, secure, and confident. The school’s positive ethos and strong values are longstanding features that help shape the character of our students.
Our motto, ‘Docendo Discimus’, translates to ‘Through Teaching, We Learn’. Learning is a shared, lifelong process, and the partnerships between students, teachers, and parents are vital in supporting each child’s development.
We look forward to welcoming you to our school.
Headmaster, Paul Nicholson BEd
School Houses and Tutor Groups
Contributing to their House and Tutor group helps students connect with one another beyond the classroom and fosters a strong sense of belonging within the school. Students can take part in competitions, support charitable causes through fundraising, and enjoy friendly rivalry on Sports Day. These activities bring the whole school community together, united in their house colours, to celebrate and support all those taking part.
baxter
House Colour: Black
Alex Baxter was a great supporter of Gillingham School and served as Chairman of Governors during the 1970s and 1980s. He dedicated an incredible amount of time and effort to securing significant improvements to the school buildings—enhancements that continue to benefit our students and staff today.
Clarendon
House Colour: Navy
During the 17th century, Edward Hyde was one of the free school’s most distinguished pupils. He went on to study at Oxford University and later served as Member of Parliament for Shaftesbury and Wootton Bassett. Hyde became the Earl of Clarendon (1609–1674) and held the position of Lord High Chancellor of England from 1661 to 1667.
Davenant
House Colour: Green
Dr Edward Davenant served as the vicar of Gillingham from 1625 to 1680 and was also Treasurer of Salisbury Cathedral from 1634. He was deeply interested in mathematical problems, and some of his ideas contributed to developments such as the theory of continued fractions. A memorial slate commemorating his life and service can be found in St Mary the Virgin Church, Gillingham.
Fletcher
House Colour: Red
WPC Yvonne Fletcher was a pupil at Gillingham School in the 1970s. After leaving school, she joined the Metropolitan Police. On 17 April 1984, she tragically lost her life while on duty during an anti–President Gaddafi demonstration. She became the first police officer to be honoured by the Police Memorial Trust. Her memorial was unveiled in St James’s Square on 1 February 1985 by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
George Butler
House Colour: Light Blue
George H. Butler was a former scholar of Gillingham School who maintained a strong connection with the school throughout his life. As a local farmer, he played a key role in supporting the old school farm during the 1960s and 1970s. In his Will, he generously provided funds to establish a financial assistance scheme for former pupils in need, helping them pursue further or higher education.
Student bursaries & scholarships – George Butler Scholarship Fund
Hurley
House Colour: Purple
Walter Edward Hurley was a dedicated Science and Maths teacher at Gillingham School from 1916 to the mid-1960s. Over nearly 50 years of service, he made a lasting impact on generations of students and became a respected and enduring figure in the school’s history, remembered for his commitment to education and the development of young minds.
Lyndon
House Colour: Grey
Neil Lyndon was a pupil at Gillingham School who, with the support of his teacher Frank Hodgson, was able to remain in school to complete his A levels. He went on to study at Cambridge University and became a successful author, broadcaster, and reviewer. In recognition of the support he received, Neil established the Frank Hodgson Memorial Fund to help students continue their studies beyond GCSE level.
Student bursaries & scholarships – Frank Hodgson Memorial Fund
Matthews
House Colour: Yellow
Gerald Blandford Matthews was a significant figure in Gillingham’s history. He owned the Wyke Brewery, which was later sold to Hall and Woodhouse. He was a dedicated supporter of education and served as Chairman of Governors at Gillingham School from 1944 to 1958, reflecting his commitment to the community beyond his business ventures.
Seager
House Colour: Orange
The Venerable Edward Leslie Seagar served as Vicar of Gillingham from 1946 to 1980 and was also the Archdeacon of Dorset. His influence extended into education as he served as Chairman of Governors at Gillingham School from 1958 to 1979. His long tenure and dual roles in church and education made him a respected and influential figure in the town.
Wagner
House Colour: White
A.F.H.V. Wagner was a long-serving and much-respected History teacher at Gillingham School, joining the staff in 1931 and retiring in 1969. His deep knowledge and passion for local history culminated in the publication of his book, Gillingham Grammar School, Dorset – An Historical Account, which remains a valuable resource for understanding the school’s heritage.
History
Gillingham School traces its origins back to 1516, making it likely the oldest school in Dorset. It was established as a Free School, funded by the proceeds of land generously gifted by several local landowners. The founding vision was to provide education for all, including those unable to afford tuition.
This spirit of inclusivity and community service has remained central to the school’s ethos for over five centuries. Today, Gillingham School continues to uphold these values, ensuring that accessible, high-quality education remains at the heart of everything it does.
History of our uniform
School uniforms have a long and symbolic history in the UK, and having been founded in 1516, our school proudly continues this tradition. Over the centuries, as education became more formalised, particularly by the 19th century, uniforms evolved into structured garments: blazers, ties, and caps became symbols of tradition and school pride. Colours and crests emerged as powerful identifiers of school identity, helping to instil a sense of belonging to students.
At Gillingham School, our uniform colours of navy, red, and silver are deeply rooted in our heritage, remaining constant through generations. The school tie, still worn today, serves as a visual link to our past, representing continuity, unity, and pride. Each element of our uniform reflects not only our values but also our enduring commitment to excellence and tradition.
