Anchored In Heritage — Former Primary School Sets Sail On New Community Voyage

There’s cause for celebration in Yarmouth as the former primary school site officially begins a new chapter — one rooted in community, heritage, and a touch of maritime magic.

The Yarmouth Community Foundation CIC has completed the purchase of the former Yarmouth Primary School from the Isle of Wight Council, marking the end of a long journey and the start of an exciting future.

The bid was accepted back in March 2024, but the final handover was delayed by some behind-the-scenes negotiations with the Crown Estates over covenants and Department for Education restrictions.

Now, with the paperwork signed and the keys in hand, the Foundation is ready to breathe new life into the site.

The Foundation was formed by trustees from the Herapath-Shenton Trust and the Maritime Archaeology Trust, with one clear goal: to ensure the site continues to serve the people of Yarmouth.

Funding came from the Herapath-Shenton Trust, a charity established by a former Yarmouth resident with a deep love of the sea — fitting, given the town’s proud maritime roots.

The Maritime Archaeology Trust will now take up residence in the old school buildings, transforming them into a centre for maritime history with a special focus on the Western Solent, incorporating the shipwreck centre currently at Arreton.

Martin Woodward, who set up the shipwreck centre in 1978 first in Bembridge, said:

“Thankfully the education theme and legacy of the school site will live on for the Yarmouth community and provide an important education experience for schools and communities on and off the Island.

"The site will now give us the opportunity to further expand and be part of an exciting new complex.“

Councillor Ian Stephens, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Finance at the Isle of Wight Council, praised the project:

“This is a fantastic example of how a community-led initiative can preserve a much-loved site and turn it into something that will benefit generations to come.

"I’m pleased the council has been able to support this vision and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on Yarmouth.”

In addition to the heritage centre, the council has retained a portion of land along Mill Road with plans to develop affordable housing — giving priority to those who work in Yarmouth and helping to keep the town’s community spirit thriving.

The Foundation has also set aside land for community use, with a special invitation extended to the Yarmouth Scouts and Guides. Whether it’s campfire singalongs or badge-earning adventures, the site is set to become a hub of activity once again.

Ward councillor, Councillor Peter Spink, added:

“I’m delighted that this project has come to fruition and am sure it will be a huge asset for Yarmouth.

"As ward councillor I intend to ensure that the affordable housing is for the benefit of local people and that the selection process that the Isle of Wight Council administers is carried out in an open and transparent manner."