Over 100 years ago, a man named Godfrey Searle lived in Reigate. He loved music and wanted to help young boys sing in the choir at St Mary’s Church. In 1918, he created a special fund to give choral scholarships to talented boys. His dream was to keep church music alive and strong in Reigate.
For many years, the choir boys studied at Reigate Grammar School. But in the 1940s, things changed. The school became a state grammar school, and younger boys could no longer attend. That meant the choir had nowhere to train its youngest singers. So in 1949, the Godfrey Searle Choir Trust decided to start a brand-new school. It would be a place where young choristers could learn, sing, and grow. That school was called Reigate St Mary’s Preparatory and Choir School. It was built to support the choir and give boys a great education.
Music was always at the heart of the school. A man named John Whitworth, who sang at Westminster Abbey, came to teach singing. He helped the boys become excellent choristers. The school was filled with music every day, and the boys sang in church every week. The school was set up in a big Victorian house called Sunnyside. Godfrey Searle gave the house and money to help the school grow. Only boys aged 8 to 13 could attend at first. They were trained to sing beautifully and study hard.
In 1950, the school was officially recognized by the Ministry of Education. That meant it was seen as a proper, high-quality school. People began to notice the school’s success in music and learning. It was a proud moment for everyone involved.
From those early days 75 years ago, Reigate St Mary’s has grown and changed. Today, the school welcomes over 400 pupils, both boys and girls, aged 2 to 11. Our Headmaster, Mr Marcus Culverwell, joined the school in 2003, bringing warmth, vision, and a passion for learning. Over his past 22 years at Reigate St Mary's, he has served as Headmaster for 20 of them. Under his leadership, the school has thrived - winning awards, expanding its facilities, and building a strong reputation.
Although it began with humble roots as a small choir school, Reigate St Mary’s is now considered one of the best independent schools in Surrey. We are proud to be part of this amazing journey, and excited for what comes next!
