Finchley Catholic High School
Finchley Catholic High School was founded in 1926, and currently has 1,100 pupils on its roll, including a co-educational Sixth Form. For more information about the history of the school, please visit The Archive. For more information about the school today, please visit the Finchley Catholic High School website.
A message from Seamus McKenna, Head Teacher of the school:
"In 2010, we marked 30 years since the passing of Canon Clement ‘Pop’ Parsons. From 1926 when he founded the School to his retirement in 1962, our first Headteacher dedicated himself to improving the facilities enjoyed by Finchley students, and their development in all senses: academic, personal, spiritual and physical.
"One of the first things that people notice when they spend any time in the School Canon Parsons built is the sense of community. This has grown and developed over many years and the sense of affiliation can be felt when meeting pupils, parents, former students and staff. To each of these groups, FCHS has been much more than a School; it has been an integral part of their lives.
"None of this has happened by accident. As well as Canon Parsons, there have been many people down the years who instinctively knew how important it was to nurture the feeling of community and to build a shared ethos amongst those associated with the school.
"They include many members of staff, the leading lights in the PTA and the stalwarts who have maintained the Albanian Old Boys Association and the Albanian Football Club. It is no coincidence that Canon Parsons was integral to the creation and development of each of those institutions. The solidarity and vibrancy of our community is a testament to their and his efforts. Our challenge is to build on what has been achieved to date.
"The school, the PTA, the Old Boys and the Football Club each have their own distinct identities, memberships and activities. What is missing is an overarching structure, a mechanism through which to bring the different parts of our community together where we have shared objectives to pursue. That is why the concept of ‘Friends of Finchley Catholic High’ is such a welcome innovation, and a worthy tribute to Canon Parsons’ legacy."