Who was Marjorie McClure?

Marjorie McClure was born in 1904, and died in 1985, so by the time the school was opened in 1974 she was already 70 years old. Marjorie recognised that there was no provision in Bromley for the education of children with physical disabilities so set about changing this. 

Her vision was for a school that provided both for the educational and medical needs of the pupils under one roof. She had first of all to obtain the council's permission to get a school built, and this she did. Alongside Mary McLaren, a physiotherapist working in Orpington Hospital, Marjorie visited a number of sites in Penge, Bromley and St Mary Cray but none were suitable as they were not central enough. After overcoming a number of barriers and some opposition Marjorie eventually won over Bromley council and the rest, as they say, is history.

"Marjorie McClure was a remarkable personality who had great purpose in life and was well known for her intellectual capacity to see things clearly and to get things done. It was these qualities which she brought to the services of Bromley Borough and it's people. She had an Honours Degree in Science and was a company director and Secretary in the engineering, catering and motor trades. She also held a private pilots licence. She had three children, a son and two daughters.

She taught Science at Bromley Grammar School and left this post when she was in her 60's to be elected a Councillor, representing Biggin Hill and Leaves Green. She centred her single mindedness and energy on education, planning and recreation and served on a variety of committees. She served on various Governing Bodies of local schools.

Marjorie McClure died on the 22nd April 1985 at the age of 82. She will probably best be remembered in the Borough for the Marjorie McClure School for handicapped children (as it was known then) in Chislehurst which was named after her in 1974 in recognition of her work as chairman of the primary education sub-committee."

(taken from the eulogy given by Rev Alan Morris at her memorial service)