Robert Raikes and The Crypt School blue plaque

This blue commemorative plaque records: Old Crypt Schoolroom This building, the original Crypt School, was founded by John and Joan Cooke, and erected in 1539, as "A contynuall free scole of grammer." Restored and reopened in 1880 for St.Mary De Crypt Sunday School in memory of Robert Raikes, it is now used as the church hall. Crypt School removed in 1861 to buildings in Barton Street and in 1892 to Friars Orchard on the site of the Technical College in Brunswick Road and thence in 1944 to Podsmead. Recorded plaque organisation: Gloucester Civic Trust.

Robert Raikes is remembered as a key figure in the development of Sunday schools, aiming to provide education for poor children. The Crypt School's association with Raikes highlights his influence on educational reform and philanthropy in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.