The School

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The Church Street School was opened in 1868, some four years after land had been given for the purpose by the Wentworth family at Stainborough. Extensions were made in 1870, 1900, 1911 and 1924, and a modernisation scheme in 1955. The school was made very attractive inside, without coming up to the standard of modern buildings. Some of the classrooms were rather small and there were no indoor lavatories.

In 1959 the School became a Junior and Infant School, the numbers being about 350. St. John's School began using the Old Girls' National School in 1944, and two West riding classrooms in 1952. These latter were removed and the National School reverted to its own trustees.

Early in the 1950's the West Riding worked out their development plans for Schools in this area, and St. John's was found to be inadequate in size for teaching, for playground and sport facilities, and the buildings fell below the new standards. It was decided to build a new school and the managers decided to retain "aided" status and be responsible for the new School.

This, the present building was officially opened on the 18th September 1968, by the Bishop of Pontefract, the Right Reverend W. G. Fallows, J.P., D.L. In January 1976 a Church of England (Controlled) Infant School was opened in new premises on the west side of the Junior School playing field. From that date this school has catered purely for boys and girls of the 7 to 11 age range. On leaving this school the children normally transfer to Penistone Grammar School, founded 1392.

Sporting Excellence

Here at St. John’s, we firmly believe becoming a well-rounded member of society takes more than academic ability. School sports play an important role in a child’s development; instilling confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.

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