Old Magus Grammar
Appletongate, Newark (forms part of the civil war museum)
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Foundation and Early Years
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The Old Magnus Grammar School, now known as the Magnus Church of England Academy, has a rich history dating back to the early 16th century. The school was founded by Thomas Magnus, a local landowner and chaplain to King Henry VIII, in 1531. Magnus was a significant benefactor to the town of Newark, and his endowment provided for the establishment of a free grammar school to offer high-quality education accessible to all
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Architectural Features
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Original Building: The original school building, constructed between 1529 and 1532, was located on Appletongate by the church. This building is now part of the National Civil War Centre
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Design and Layout: The school was designed to include facilities for teaching both grammar and music. Over the entrance, an inscription reads, "This grammar school was founded by the reverend Thomas Magnus, 1529"
Historical Significance
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Endowment and Legacy: Thomas Magnus's endowment included land and property, which provided financial support for the school's operations. His will, dated 1550, bequeathed additional lands to support a "school of grammar and a school of song." The income from these endowments was used to fund various educational and charitable purposes in Newark
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Educational Impact: The school played a crucial role in the education of local children, offering instruction in both academic subjects and music. It was one of the few institutions of its kind to survive from that period, continuing to provide education for centuries
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Evolution and Modern Era
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19th Century Developments: In 1909, a new school building was constructed on Earp Avenue to accommodate the growing number of students. This building continued to serve as the main site for the Magnus Grammar School
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20th Century Changes: The school underwent several changes throughout the 20th century, including the amalgamation with the Magdalene High School to form the Magnus Church of England School. In 2014, the school converted to academy sttus and became known as the Magnus Church of England Academy
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Notable Alumni
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Sir Donald Wolfit: An English actor-manager, knighted in 1957 for his services to the theatre. Wolfit attended the Thomas Magnus Grammar School and made his stage debut in 1920
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Sir Godfrey Hounsfield: A Nobel Prize-winning electrical engineer who invented the first computed tomography (CT) scanner. Hounsfield was educated at the Magnus Grammar School
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William Henry "Dusty" Hare: A former England rugby union footballer who holds the world record for points scored in a first-class rugby career. Hare attended the Thomas Magnus Grammar School
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Cultural Impact
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The Old Magnus Grammar School has left an indelible mark on the town of Newark. Its long history of providing education and its notable alumni reflect the school's significant role in the community. The transformation of the original building into the National Civil War Centre ensures that the legacy of Thomas Magnus and his contributions to education continue to be celebrated
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