Blue Coat School for Boys, Devizes
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A Master of the Schools is mentioned in 1322 and in 1619 a schoolmaster and schoolhouse are recorded. In 1642 it was said that the old school was unfit for use and a bequest was left to pay the schoolmaster. In the 18th century there were other charitable bequests for the education of small numbers of boys. In 1725 John Smith left £300 for a new school building, in Maryport Street, which was then called the Free School.
By the late 18th century it was said that most of the children of the town were attending schools. By 1838 there were 106 boys at the school and by 1844 it was being called the Blue Coat School while in 1846 there were 126 boys. In 1848 the school moved in with the infants in Sheep Street; the buildings being enlarged for them. In 1854 the school adopted the principles of the National Society and became the National School for Boys.
By the late 18th century it was said that most of the children of the town were attending schools. By 1838 there were 106 boys at the school and by 1844 it was being called the Blue Coat School while in 1846 there were 126 boys. In 1848 the school moved in with the infants in Sheep Street; the buildings being enlarged for them. In 1854 the school adopted the principles of the National Society and became the National School for Boys.