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Our History

Sir Antony Browne, the Lord Chief Justice, acquired the land on which Brentwood School was first built in 1557, during the reign of Mary Tudor, a devout Catholic monarch of England.

This period was marked by religious turmoil, with hundreds of Protestants being executed in the country.

Tragically, in Brentwood, a young 19-year-old Brentwood Protestant named William Hunter was ordered by Sir Antony Browne to be executed. It is believed that this act led Sir Antony Browne to found Brentwood School.

A Timeline of Developments at Brentwood

The Willis Museum

There is a wealth of material for documenting the history of the School in the School Archives.

We have also created a museum at Brentwood School to showcase the many wonderful items in our collection. The Willis Museum, named in honour of former Head of Politics Mike Willis, is housed in the old stable block near Newnum House and features an extensive collection of school photographs and memorabilia. Our museum is open often for you to visit. Find out more below.

Archives Willis Museum

Our alumni

Brentwood School has had many notable alumni over the years and all have had very different careers.

Our alumni includes famed writer, Douglas Adams (Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy), TV presenter and broadcaster, Noel Edmunds, professional footballer, Frank Lampard, comedian and actor, Griff Rhys Jones OBE and many others.

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Those things which are most beneficial to the world which really conduce to the comfort and welfare and happiness of mankind, are best carried on with the help of the truest learning.

William Payne
Priest and Former Student

We were taught by inspired, dedicated, tireless and determined teachers. What inanity from us they must have put up with. We remember them so clearly because basically we loved them.

Griff Rhys Jones OBE
(OB 1965 - 1971)

Brentwood
in numbers

1558
George Otway appointed first Headmaster
1765
Boarders first admitted to Brentwood School
1892
Foundation of Brentwood Preparatory School