Heritage

Argyle House School was established in 1884 by its founder and first Principal, Mr Hanna MA. He looked after all the concerns of the entire school until he handed it over to his son James. James ran the school until he unfortunately passed away in 1935. 

After his death, James' three daughters took over the school and relocated it to number 12 Thornhill Park, Sunderland. The sisters ran the school until the last sister passed away in 1967. Their niece, Mrs Davis, then took over the running of the school until it was put up for sale in 1968. 

Mr Jeff Johnson bought the school in 1969, where he and his wife moved it to its current location at 19 and 20 Thornhill Park, Sunderland. 

Under the leadership of Jeff Johnson and his the school saw many changes under his leadership. This included in 1996 where Argyle House School went from being a boys only school to welcoming girls and being co-educational. 

In 2002 Jeff Johnson retired and son, Christopher Johnson, took over the school as head alongside his wife. Further developments have since taken place including expansion to allow extra facilities to be added and subjects introduced over his tenure. 

In 2021 Argyle House School became part of the Forfar Education Group which has seen a lot of investment and the launch of Little Crickets Sunderland. 

At the end of 2024 Christopher Johnson took the decision to retire from teaching and headship which saw interim Head Mrs Nicola Smillie take over the reins in January 2025. 

From 2025, Little Crickets Sunderland is now fully operational 50 weeks a year, providing year round care for children aged 2 years and 9 months and over. 

Everyday is an open day at Argyle House School, to book a tour with Mrs Smillie email [email protected] or call 0191 510 0726.