History

Introduction to Charterhouse School

We’re students at Charterhouse School, a place steeped in history and tradition, located in the picturesque town of Godalming, Surrey. Our school has a story that stretches back over four centuries, beginning in the early 17th century with its founding by Thomas Sutton, one of the wealthiest individuals of his time. He established the school on the grounds of an old Carthusian monastery in London, setting up a charity that included not only the school but also a hospital for pensioners.

From London to Godalming

Originally intended to offer education to poor but academically inclined youths, the school has grown into one of England’s notable historic educational institutions. The list of alumni from our first home in London boasts significant figures in literature, such as Joseph Addison, Richard Steele, and William Makepeace Thackeray, and even Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island.

In 1872, following the advice of the Public Schools Commission, Charterhouse made a monumental move to Godalming. The move under William Haig Brown’s headmastership marked a new chapter. The campus was designed by Philip Charles Hardwick, with later contributions by other renowned architects such as Sir Arthur Blomfield and Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, turning the Godalming location into a picturesque and inspiring place to learn.

Life at Charterhouse Today

Our campus now covers about 250 acres and boasts a wide range of facilities. We have sports pitches, a theatre, and a music centre, all aimed at fostering a balanced and enriching student life. The chapel, a masterpiece designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and consecrated in 1927, stands as a poignant memorial to Carthusians who lost their lives in the Great War, also serving as England’s largest war memorial.

Significantly, in 2019, Charterhouse took a bold step into the future by becoming coeducational and welcoming girls into the community, which shows the school’s commitment to evolving with the times and providing an inclusive education.

Achievements and Legacy

As Charterhouse students, we’re constantly reminded of our school’s prestigious legacy and its contributions to society. The archives in Godalming, packed with records of the school’s history and achievements since moving from London, alongside those held in the London Metropolitan Archive, serve as a testament to our enduring relevance and impact.

Conclusion

Today, as Charterhouse continues to be a leading independent school in the UK, we’re proud to be part of a community that not only values its historic roots but also strives towards providing a comprehensive education based on Christian principles. As students, we’re encouraged to aim for fulfilled and purposeful lives, equipped with the education and moral grounding we receive here.