1839-1967

History of The Old School in pictures

A former village school with a lot of history

The substantive part of the Westhampnett village school was built in 1839, paid for through the patronage of the fifth Duke of RIchmond.  Its foundation was connected with a concern for social improvement at the time. The school provided for the basic educational requirements of local working families who were mainly in the employ of the Goodwood Estate, and orphans from the nearby Westhampnett Workhouse.   

Both before and after the closure of the school in 1967 the building has seen notable pupils and visitors.  Two of our guest rooms are named after people from The Old School B&B’s history.  

Check-out our photo album and then check-in to The Old School B&B.

Our history includes famous former pupils such as James Lillywhite Jr. pictured here with his family
English cricketing legend James Lillywhite Jr. lived next door with his family. He and his 7 children are believed to be former pupils.
House next door to The Old School, home of the Lillywhite family, School Mistress' house in the early 20th century
At one time owned by the Lillywhite family, the house next door to the The Old School was also the teacher's residence for many years. In latter years it was occupied by our friend and former neighbour, the actor John Clegg.
The Humphreys family pictured circa 1920 - Florence Humphreys (School Mistress) 2nd from left
Circa 1920, Florence Humphreys (2nd from left) was the longest serving School Mistress, and her husband's (1st left) ancestors were teachers at the school in the 19th century.
Descendants of Florence Humphreys standing outside her former residence next door to The Old School B&B
Descendants of Florence Humphreys visiting The Old School in 2020. Alan (2nd from left) is Florence's grandson, accompanied by his wife and children (Florence's great-grandchildren!).
Florence Humphrey's gravestone in the local church yard
Florence Humphreys, former School Mistress, is buried in the nearby churchyard. She served as School Mistress from the late 19th century until the early 1930's.
Pupils in a line outside The Old School circa 1960
Circa 1960, pupils used to walk daily to the local council depot for lunch.
The Goons - Spike, Peter and Harry
After closing as a school in 1967, the property was bought by a BBC producer. His pals The Goons were regular weekend guests.
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