From Abbey School to Community College
Duke of Bedford Statue, Guildhall Square, Abbey Place, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0FW
The Benedictines founded Tavistock Abbey in 981 and, to nurture potential monks, offered schooling to local boys. Following the abbey’s dissolution in 1539, its possessions were gifted to John Russell, Earl of Bedford who provided a replacement school in 1551. This became Tavistock Grammar School, which continued until 1959.
In 1847, the 6th Duke of Bedford established Dolvin Road school for the sons and daughters of working people in the town: this converted to a Secondary Modern School following the 1944 Education Act.
In 1959 Devon County Council repurposed these schools and opened a new school on a new site with new premises – Tavistock Comprehensive – the first comprehensive in the counties of Cornwall, Devon and Somerset.
The Three Schools Project is a study comparing these schools with the aim of cultivating interest in their educational and socio-economic heritage; creating a platform for former pupils to share their memories and stories; recording first-hand accounts of personal experiences, and preserving stories for posterity.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 14 September:
- 14.00 - 15.30
Location & directions
Duke of Bedford Statue, Guildhall Square, Abbey Place, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0FW
- Contact on day:
- Simon Thompson
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Additional information
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
