We first passed this building back in 2000 but had no idea what it was.  After a little searching we found it was formerly a school house and home, built by James Thomson for Joseph Neeld (of Grittleton).  The School is Grade II* listed - see listing details at:  Historic England.

In John Aubrey's 'Wiltshire Collections' book, John Jackson's note 3 for the entry for Leigh Delamere includes:  "The church ... was entirely taken down in 1846: but the chancel, with its Arch, Reredos, and curious Bell Turrett, were re-erected at Sevington as the village school."  The Historic England listing informs us where some of the stones are now positioned.

But this building is so much more than its structure, it is not just another old building to look at and admire.  It is now a place we can visit and experience school life back in Victorian times.  We managed a brief visit in 2013 and came away full of admiration at what has been achieved here.  The people are incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about the history of the school.  The school only had one teacher - Miss Squire - who was there from 1849 until she retired in 1913, at which point the doors were closed and everything inside remained as it was.  Fortunately the significance of this was recognised when the building was re-opened many years later.

As years progressed, those who are caring for this school have formed a charitable trust and perhaps its main use now is as a place where today's school children can visit and experience school life as a Victorian child.  Dressing up is just the start - they spend a day experiencing lessons and lifestyle, including the discipline and lack of computers!  For a newspaper report about this project follow this link:  Sevington School.

But it isn't just for children - adults can book "a tour of the schoolroom, schoolhouse and garden, light refreshments and a tour of the nearby Leigh Delamere church if required."  The school also opens up at various times thoughout the year, including Heritage Weekend - see the school's website for opening dates.

www.sevingtonvictorianschool.co.uk/
The website gives information about their work and history about the school including historical documents giving names of pupils, and so much more.

It is hard to describe the enthusiasm and achievements of the 'staff' other than awesome.  Their vision for this unique place has required much work and dedication and their achievement is outstanding.  They have done a truely marvellous job.