Honouring our past. Shaping our future.
For 130 years, Worksop College and Ranby House have stood as places of learning, friendship, and opportunity. Since 1895, generations of Worksopians have been guided by the values that make our community special – a commitment to care, honesty, and perseverance.
As we celebrate this milestone, we are proud to launch our refreshed values – Compassion, Integrity, and Dedication – the same qualities that have shaped our story for over a century, now expressed for the future.
This anniversary is more than a celebration of history; it is a commitment to what comes next. Together, we will continue to inspire young minds and nurture character in an ever-changing world.
Our History
Foundations and Early Growth
Worksop College was built on land generously gifted by the Duke of Newcastle from his Clumber estate. Over the years, this has grown into the stunning 330-acre estate we know today.
The early years were marked by rapid expansion. Within just two years, the College comprised four dormitories - Cross, Fleur de Lys, Lion and Crown - which laid the foundations for our first four Houses: Mason, Pelham, Mountgarret and Talbot.
St Cuthbert’s Chapel and Pre-War Development
In the years before the First World War, significant building work took place, culminating in the creation of the magnificent St Cuthbert’s Chapel between 1909 and 1911—a landmark that remains at the heart of our community.
The Shirley Era: A Period of Transformation
The 1920s and 1930s brought sweeping change under Headmaster Canon Fred Shirley. Many of the buildings around the cloisters were added, including School and Shirley House. During this time, football was replaced by rugby as the main sport, and the College began to develop a national reputation for excellence.
Post-War Expansion and Ranby House
After the Second World War, Worksop College continued to grow. The acquisition of Ranby House allowed our Prep School to move off-site, while its former buildings became home to a seventh senior House, Portland. New facilities were added, including an indoor swimming pool, Churchill Hall, modern chemistry laboratories and additional classrooms.
A New Era: Co-Education
The 1970s marked a milestone as the first girls were admitted to the College. By the mid-1980s, Worksop College was fully co-educational. Two new girls’ Houses - Gibbs and Derry - were introduced, replacing the former boys’ Houses, Mountgarret and School House.
130 Stories for 130 Years
As part of our 130th anniversary celebrations, we’re creating something truly special: 130 stories to mark 130 years of Worksop College and Ranby House.
Every story matters because every experience is part of our history. Are you a current pupil, an Old Worksopian, a past or present member of staff, or a parent? We’d love to hear from you.
Share your memories, milestones, or moments that make our school so special. Your story will become part of a unique collection celebrating the rich tapestry of our community, to be published at the end of our 130th year.
Tell us your story and be part of history.
