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On 17 May 2026, Scarborough College marks a remarkable milestone – 125 years since the school first opened its doors to pupils.
The College officially opened on 17 May 1901 under the leadership of Headmaster Percy Armstrong. Eager to begin welcoming pupils, Armstrong chose not to wait for the completion of the school buildings. Instead, lessons began in his own house, now known as the West Wing, while workmen continued construction elsewhere on site.
That first term, just seven boys formed the entire school community:
As we reflect on the College’s history, we also remember the lives and experiences of those early pupils beyond their school days.
JS Beck, the College’s first boarding pupil, sadly died in Australia in 1909 after being thrown from a horse.
The impact of the First World War was also deeply felt. R Harland was killed in France in 1918 towards the end of the conflict, while AP Cooper lost an arm during the war.
Today, 125 years later, the College community has grown far beyond those original seven pupils. To mark the occasion, 125 Prep School pupils gathered on the cricket field to create the shape of “125” in a special commemorative photograph – a fitting tribute linking the College’s past and present generations.
Our thanks go to groundsman (and informal archivist) Mr Paul Swinger for researching and sharing this fascinating insight into the College’s earliest days.
To celebrate this special anniversary year, Scarborough College will also be launching Challenge125 next term. Pupils, staff and parents will be invited to take part by completing 125 acts that support society, mental health, charity or fitness. More details will be shared soon.
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