We all know that King’s has a long history, going back at least to 1541.  However, in the course of the last year, two important publications have greatly enhanced our knowledge about the school that existed here in even earlier times.  The first is the new book by former Deputy Head David Evans, ‘The Ancient Schools of Gloucester’. The second is the report from the archaeologists who excavated in Dulverton House in 2020 just before its renovation.

To help share this new knowledge, we would like to invite you to an event on Thursday 18th May from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with a brief introduction in the Chapter House, which will be accessed through the Dark Cloister gate next to Little Cloister House.

On a rotation basis, you will then be taken to three locations:

Dulverton House, where the archaeology of the building will be explained by Sixth Form guides.  You will learn about the history of the building as part of the monastic infirmary and be able to see a range of features, including the remains of a 12th century chapel and a 14th century doorway, which was hidden from view until just three years ago.

The Cathedral Cloisters, where David Evans will explain that children have been educated here since 1072.  You will learn about the medieval school that preceded King’s and about the scholarship of the monks who inhabited our Cloisters many centuries ago.   There will also be an opportunity to purchase your own copy, if you wish, of David Evans’ book at a discounted price.  The book has five-star reviews on Amazon and was the subject of a sell-out talk at the Gloucester History Festival recently.

The Cathedral Library, which from 1541 until 1849 was the room used as the King’s Schoolroom.  Cathedral Archivist, Rebecca Phillips, will explain the history of this fascinating room and let you look at some of the earliest records that survive from the school.  These include the Book of Benefactors and the first School List created by the famous Headmaster Maurice Wheeler, as well as a range of books he used to teach his pupils in the 17th century.

There is no charge for the evening, but because of very restricted space in the Cathedral Library, we are limited to 60 people, so please do respond quite quickly.  Parking will be available on the Paddock.  You should also be aware that there will be a fair bit of standing while the tours take place and that access to the Cathedral Library is by a steep and narrow spiral staircase.