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East London RFC grew out of Old Esthamieans RFC, which was the rugby club formed from former pupils of East Ham Grammar School. The Grammar School was originally located in a building that forms part of the East Ham Town Hall complex. The original building is still there.
From the Official History
Founding of East Ham Grammar School
East Ham Grammar School is founded as a mixed school for boys and girls. It is located within the East Ham Town Hall complex, where the original building still stands today. In 1909, the school undergoes its first extension, as listed in Kelly's Directory: Essex (1922).
School Becomes Single-Gender
The school separates into single-gender institutions. The Girls’ School moves to Plashet Grove, while the Boys remain at the original 1905 building.
Wartime Disruption & Bomb Damage
During World War II, an Emergency Grammar School for Boys and Girls opens in the Girls' Grammar School building. Mr. W.H. Lock is appointed Deputy Head, recalled from Swindon. That September, the building suffers a direct bomb hit, though fortunately on a Saturday, avoiding injury.
Reopening After the Blitz
The Boys’ Grammar School reopens in East Ham under Mr. Andrews. Swindon evacuees return by January 1943, reuniting the school.
Bill Wallis Introduces Rugby
Dr. Whiteley becomes Headteacher in 1944 and asks a young PE teacher, Bill Wallis, to introduce rugby the following year.
In 1945, rugby is played for the first time at the school, and the first 1st XV team is formed. A historic team photo captures Dr. Whiteley and Bill Wallis on either side of the squad—marking the beginning of a lasting rugby tradition.
Relocation to a New Site
.A new school site opens in 1951. In 1952, the Boys move to the new site. At the same time, two new schools—Burges Manor and Thomas Lethaby—open their doors, drawing students from across the borough due to overcrowding in other schools.
Golden Jubilee Celebration
The school celebrates its 50th anniversary, marked by a Jubilee edition of The Esthameian, the Boys’ School magazine, documenting its legacy and growth.
School Closure and Reorganisation
As part of borough-wide education reforms, East Ham Grammar School, Burges Manor, and Thomas Lethaby are merged into a new secondary modern school, renamed Langdon School. The Grammar School is formally closed.
Evolution of the Rugby Club
The Old Esthameians RFC, once the Old Boys’ rugby team, continues briefly after the school’s closure. With no new pupils feeding into the club, it evolves into an open community club, renamed East London RFC, welcoming players from all backgrounds.
No Bill Wallis, no East London RFC.
To honour the man who introduced rugby to generations of East London players, the club’s bar is named The Bill Wallis Bar.