St Luke’s Boys School, c.1906

St Luke’s Boys School, Victoria Road, Cambridge

History of St Luke's Boys School

School was built in 1881 and enlarged in 1898 for 365 children.

25 December 1908 — Feud with Milton Road School
Allegations that a feud exists between the boys attending Milton Road and St Luke’s schools is not entirely borne out by investigation. When the Milton Road School was opened a number of boys attending St Luke’s migrated. Installed in the new school they ‘put on side’ which was too much for their late friends and some small battles ensued. This reached the ears of the authorities and they were punished. Since then rival feelings exist only in the breasts of two or three lads and possibly a snow storm will enable both sides to wipe out all accounts.

Credit: Mike Petty, CWN 08 12 25.

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20 February 1935 — Severe overcrowding
It was time something was done about St Luke’s School. The headmistress had a class of 54 in a large room divided only by a curtain from another class of 50. It was very trying for the teachers and not very satisfactory for the children. Putting another teacher into the room would not be much use. Romsey Council School also had large classes but to move one upstairs would be difficult: the natural lighting and ventilation was poor and there was insufficient head room. The head would prefer to have eight classes under normal conditions than take a class in an attic, councillors were told.

Credit: Mike Petty, 35 02 20b.

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29 February 1964 — St Luke’s School described as substandard
St Luke’s church schools in Victoria Road are outdated and almost sub-standard. However since 1962, when children were shivering in classes, electric heating has been installed to take the load off the open fires. The school is fifth on the list for rebuilding within the next four years, but may slip down the list. Until a new one is built parents will have to remain dissatisfied with the accommodation. The council is not rejuvenating the decaying areas of the city but concentrating on new ones.

Credit: Mike Petty, 64 02 29a.