Bradford Friends Schools.

The origins of the Quaker schools in Bradford date back to a meeting of young Friends at the home of John Priestman in late 1829. It was decided to establish a boys' school managed by Friends 'on the British and Foreign System', and John Priestman and Benjamin Seebohm set out to raise annual subscriptions. The school opened in April 1830 in a rented room in Fawcett Row, with William Dunning appointed as teacher. Its 200 pupils were drawn from amongst 'the children of all labouring people or mechanics residing in the town of Bradford and its neighbourhood'. This was soon followed by a similar school for girls, and in November, by an infants' school. Land was given by Charles Harris in Chapel Street for the erection of new buildings and playgrounds. In order to raise funds, the Bradford Friends School Association was formed and issued 25 shares. The new premises opened in early 1832 and housed all three schools, providing accommodation for about 650 pupils. By 1842 however, average attendance was only 373. Four years later the financial situation was so poor that the schools were leased to the trustees of Eastbrook [Methodist] Chapel. The schools continued under Methodist control, and fulfilled largely the same educational role. This arrangement continued until 1870 when the property was finally sold to the trustees. In 1878, grants of 600 to the Mechanics Institute and 459 to the Bradford Friends First Day School were made out of the proceeds of the sale. It is not known how long the Eastbrook Schools continued after 1870.

From the guide to the Records of Bradford Friends Schools, 1829-1879, (GB 206 Leeds University Library)