In the town of Southampton - as it was back then -  a school with a unique concept was established more than 60 years ago.

Separated by the actual structure of Glen Eyre School itself, the girls embarked on their educational journey on one side, the boys on the other Situated on Violet Road in Bassett, the schools encompassed a sprawling ten-acre property. These educational institutions marked the sixth and seventh additions to the Southampton Education Committee's ambitious post-war construction initiative.

In 1939, plans were made for the site, but construction was delayed due to the Second World War. The initial budget estimates were surpassed due to the necessary adjustments for the increasing leaving age of 16.

A notable feature is that it became the first four-storey school in Southampton, surpassing the standard three-storey structures.

The construction process took 20 months, and the total cost amounted to approximately £182,000. An additional £18,000 was allocated for the purchase of furniture and equipment.

Daily Echo: Dr Horace King, PC, MP for Southampton, Itchen, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons was guest of

In the months leading up to the grand opening event, Glen Eyre Boy's School had already commenced its educational journey.

However, it was not until May 15, 1962, that the school's official inauguration took place.

The prestigious opening ceremony was conducted by Sir Reginald Biddle, who graced the occasion with his esteemed presence.

After meeting with several dignitaries, he was invited by the school’s head boy, Peter Noyce, to unveil a commemorative plaque.

Daily Echo: Sir Reginald Biddle, CBE, JP, officially opened Glen Eyre Secondary School for Boy's in Bassett,

Sir Biddle had a special message for the boys: “Always be civil, courteous and cheerful. Remember you carry with you the reputation and prestige of your school.”

Upon officially opening the school, he extended his heartfelt blessings to the headmaster, faculty, students, and their families, wishing them all a prosperous journey ahead.

A week passed when Elsie Sandell, a respected historian in the town, took the honour of inaugurating the new girls' school.

The atmosphere was reminiscent of the recent opening of the boys' school, with dignitaries in attendance.

Daily Echo: Heritage. Glen Eyre Schools girls choir

Barbara Hunt, the head girl, introduced Mrs Sandell and then invited her to unveil a commemorative plaque.

 Following the events, she proceeded to address the crowd, sharing the captivating story of Glen Eyre's rich local heritage and the pioneering establishment of Southampton's first girls' school two centuries prior. Situated at 79 High Street, the boarding school catered exclusively to young ladies.

Encouraging a strong sense of loyalty within the school community, Mrs Sandell emphasized the importance of considering the needs of others. This included showing support not only for the teachers but also for fellow students.

Daily Echo: Heritage. Glen Eyre Schools boys dinner

With the dawn of a new era in 1967, a transformative fusion occurred between the two distinct educational institutions. The amalgamation birthed a harmonious bastion of knowledge that embraced coeducational principles.

Today Cantell Secondary School occupies the site and is an amalgamation of both Glen Eyre Secondary School and the once nearby Hampton Park Secondary School. The merger took place in 1986 and saw places available for 1,200 pupils from around the local area.