HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOL

Henry Compton was an interesting and quite dramatic historical figure. He was involved in the ‘Glorious Revolution’ of the late 17th century which saw him play a role as one of a group of nobles called ‘The Immortal Seven’. These nobles invited William III and Mary II to invade England, changing the course of royal history. He was also Bishop of London from 1675 - 1713, residing at Fulham Palace and buried at All Saints Church. It is for this reason he gave his name to Henry Compton School, opened in the late 19th Century.

Henry Compton operated as a non denominational boys’ school throughout the 20th century, and saw many alumni go on to great things, including former olympic sprinter Linford Christie and 1966 World Cup winner, George Cohen. Until 2010, it was a foundation school administered by Hammersmith and Fulham London Borough Council.  In 2010, it became part of a federation with Fulham Cross Girls’ School, and in 2012 converted to academy status, renamed as Fulham College Boys’ School. This school achieved some outstanding results and saw alumni go on to secure scholarships at prestigious colleges and universities. During this period the school opened a 6th form centre as part of the Studio Schools government initiative, developing excellent vocational provision for learners in the 14 - 19 age group.

However, it became increasingly apparent that the needs of the local community and future focused education were not being completely met in the local area and after much consultation, it was determined that the school would become a STEM specialist academy, providing a broad and balanced curriculum that also allowed for meaningful focus on the subjects and skills most in demand in our rapidly changing world. Girls joined the school for the first time as Year 7 students in 2020 when it was relaunched as Fulham Cross Academy, part of the Fulham Cross Academy Trust. Our 6th form continues to provide a great vocational offer, but has expanded to include a range of academic A-levels. Fulham Cross Academy will remain what it has always been at heart; a warm and friendly school  that responds to the needs of the wonderful community of which it is a part.