The first history of Pocklington School was published in 1950, and still remains a valuable record. However, since then research has revealed a great deal of fresh material. Some of this has helped us to reassess opinions about earlier periods in the school's life. 500 years is a remarkably long time for a school to survive on its original site. The new history tracks these five centuries through prosperous times and poor, revealing eras of distinction and also low points when the school all but ceased to operate. The school today is thriving as never before, and later chapters give an accurate picture of a busy, vibrant and happy community.