Wilnecote Schools, New Road, Wilnecote, Tamworth

Wilnecote Schools provide an example of Champneys’ early work, and were noted at the time as marking a break with the “Gothic mania” that had previously prevailed. They comprise a west wing (the Junior School) and detached east wing (the Infants). The buildings are externally striking and architecturally notable, featuring an attractive bell turretand weather vane, and Dutch gables. At the time of its construction the large windows and internal arrangements for the health and convenience of pupils and teachers were praised. The ventilation system was described as "ingenious", with fresh air passing behind the open fireplaces to be warmed in chambers behind the grates, and foul air being extracted.

The Tamworth Herald of 1878 records that the opening of the schools was celebrated with a tea and public meeting, "all the village being astir, and the residents turning out in holiday attire to render due éclat to the occasion". The chairman of the governors, George Skey, the noted brick, tile and terracotta manufacturer in the village, described the schools as "commodious, comfortable, appropriate, and nice". He stated that the schools would "stand as a monument to the character of Messrs Watton and Sons, as builders". [Tamworth Civic Trust}