Our historical tours of the school and grounds have picked up positive write-ups beyond the Emanuel community and as a result we have the occasional request for ‘private’ tours from external organisations.

During half-term, 30 members of the London Appreciation Society (LAS) braved the elements for the full two-hour tour. We were also surprised to find out there was a waiting list as the 30 places were snapped up in double quick time. One OE was amongst the group and many of the others had gone past the school on the train, sometimes for decades, and were eager to see what lies beyond the gates.

LAS is for adults interested in the past, present, and future of London and was founded in 1932. They have a very impressive programme of between 120 -150 events per year, often very obscure locations which are rarely open to the public. The feedback from the organisers was very positive and the LAS may return in the future for another visit. We photographed the group outside the swimming pool (above) and Room 22 (as it was known in his day), where distinguished English teacher and author Charles Cuddon often taught and was featured in a few amusing anecdotes.

Our next tours which are open to the public, parents and OEs, will be:

  • 30th May 11am for Wandsworth Heritage Festival
  • 19th Sept (afternoon) for London Open House

Mr Jones (Senior Librarian & Archivist)

The former room of distinguished teacher and author Charles Cuddon