Our School's History
‘Abersychan Higher Elementary School’ was formally opened on 9th November 1914 with 136 students starting on the following day. It was the first of its type in the County of Monmouthshire, as it was intended to accommodate a maximum of 250 mixed students and to serve as a pupil-teacher centre.
Pupil-teachers were young apprentices typically over 15 years old, who worked in elementary schools for a limited number of hours (around 20 per week), while receiving their own education (at least 5 hours per week). They were trained "on the job" by experienced teachers and helped manage large classes, often teaching or supervising, and maintaining discipline. After this professional development, they could then attend university to complete their teacher training qualifications.
Originally, the school consisted of what we now call ‘G Block’ and the ‘Small Hall’. The school was selective and places were highly sought after. Students had to pass an entrance examination, but very few gained a place. Our school log book shows that in 1923, 183 candidates took the exam, with only 34 of those actually being admitted to the school.
From 1924, as the education system evolved, the school became known as ‘Abersychan Secondary School’. The school maintained its strong standards of education, with many students passing the ‘Oxford Senior Examination’. In 1927, the ‘Abersychan Mining and Technical Institute’ was built, which is now known as ‘The Plaza’. This was a completely independent site at the time and had nothing to do with ‘Abersychan Secondary School’.
In 1944, the school’s name changed from ‘Abersychan Secondary School’ to ‘Abersychan Grammar School’. Expectations remained high and places remained limited. Students now had to pass the 11+ exam, but the school was still state-funded. Uniforms consisted of items such as short trousers, pinafore dresses, brown berets and straw boater hats! In 1947, the school leaving age was increased to 15, which allowed students to stay on into sixth form, before progressing onto university.
In 1958, following the retirement of the Headteacher of the institute, the schools amalgamated to become the ‘Abersychan Grammar - Technical School’. Entrance to the school was still via the 11+ exam. Grammar - technical schools offered a traditional grammar school education alongside technical subjects, such as mechanics and engineering. The aim was to produce well-rounded students with both academic and practical skills, responding to a demand for scientists and technicians.
In 1979, following another education reform, the school became known as ‘Abersychan Comprehensive School’. The school was no longer selective and all students were welcome. Students and staff from the recently closed Trevethin School joined those at Abersychan, which significantly increased the number of students on roll.