Story

Our Story

Queensbury’s story is one of heritage, change, and community. A story that begins long before the name Queensbury existed.

Before 1972, our site was home to two very different schools:

  • Kingsbury School (Opened in 1958)
  • Queen Eleanor’s Grammar School for Girls (Opened in 1959)

 

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Each had its own identity, traditions, and generations of students. One focused on technical and practical learning, the other on academic excellence for young women, but both were deeply rooted in the Dunstable community.

 

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5Becoming Queensbury

In 1972, education in Bedfordshire changed.

The county moved to a new three-tier system, bringing together existing schools to create a more inclusive model. As part of this transformation:

  • Kingsbury School and Queen Eleanor’s Grammar School for Girls merged
  • Queensbury Upper School was formed

For the first time, students from across the community came together in one school.

What makes Queensbury unique is that its history still lives on today:

  • Our buildings reflect the original two schools
  • Our community reflects generations of shared experience

Growing together

From 1972 to 2012, Queensbury Upper School became a well-established and respected part of the local community.

Thousands of students walked the same corridors, sat in the same halls, and created memories that still connect people today.

Whether you remember:

  • separate buildings
  • changing school systems
  • or the early days of the merger

You are part of this shared story.

 

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A new chapter: Queensbury Academy

In 2012, the school entered a new phase of its journey.

Queensbury Upper School became Queensbury Academy.

This change brought:

  • Greater independence
  • New opportunities for students
  • A renewed vision for the future

But while the name evolved, the heart of the school remained the same.

 

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Reconnect with your story

Today, Queensbury is more than a school; it’s a shared experience across decades.

We are building our alumni community and would love you to be part of it.

Visit our Alumni page to get involved