ashtead at Christmas 2004
150 Years of Learning

City of London Freemen's School has been celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. But today's school in Ashtead is a far cry from the original foundation in Brixton for 90 orphans of the Freemen of the City of London.

Photo of City of London Freemen's School
CLFS moved to Ashtead Park in 1926. Until then the original late 18th century manor was a private house - its last owner being a Greek banker, Pantia Ralli. Over the years the school has expanded to its present 800+ pupils, new classrooms have been added, as well as purpose-built facilities for sports, drama, art and design, science and technology.

Despite its rural location, CLFS maintains active links with the Corporation of London and annually plays host to the Lord Mayor on Prize Day.
Photo of City of London Freemen's School coat of arms
Corporation on London coat of arms
Photo of flowers at City of London Freemen's School
Amongst this year's anniversary celebrations was a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral. In September a spectacular flower festival at the school featured displays by the pupils alongside exhibits by expert arrangers. Many of these were themed on City Livery companies and others interpreted people and events that have made an impression in the last 150 years.
Photo of 5 young people The Young Ones
Are the young people of Ashtead busy of bored? We highlight some of the activities available to keep our teenagers occupied and even busy helping others
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