Burston Strike School

Burston Strike School is a red brick school building in Burston, England, that now functions as a museum. The building displays photographs, documents, and artifacts from the strike period and tells the story of this unusual school.

In 1914, two teachers were dismissed, prompting students led by Violet Potter to begin a strike that became the longest school strike in British history. The building itself was created in response and served for 25 years as an alternative school for families in the strike.

This place represents a movement where rural working families challenged a school system controlled by landowners and religious authorities. The site reflects how ordinary people resisted established institutions.

The site is open seasonally, mainly from April to September, so check ahead for current opening times. Guided tours offer deeper insight into the exhibitions, so booking one is worthwhile if you have time available.

The building was funded entirely by donations from trade unions and supporters across Britain, not by government funds. This unusual financing made the school a symbol of solidarity and mutual aid during difficult times.

Location: Burston and Shimpling

Inception: 1914

GPS coordinates: 52.40470,1.13970

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59