Evaluation by G Priestley-Bell of ASE identified walls and hardstandings relating to the late 18th century and early 19th century development of the site by the Philanthropic Society’s Farm School. A large, probably late 19th to early 20th century rubbish pit was recorded on the northern edge of the site. Made-ground and evidence of significant truncation relating to the 20th century redevelopment and landscaping of the site were widespread.

Excavation by J Newell of SyAS of a narrow trench across the extensive bank and ditch earthwork previously surveyed in 2013 (SyAC 99, 228), suggested that the series of abutments to the north of the bank were contemporary with or added soon after the bank was formed. The broad ditch to the south proved to be shallow. No dating evidence was recovered from the excavation or a subsequent metal detector survey, suggesting the site may have been metal detected previously.

Watching brief by I Hogg of ASE revealed a 19th century field boundary ditch shown on historic maps. A probable planting pit was also recorded.

Evaluation by A Mundin of TVAS revealed that the natural gravel geology was overlain by alluvial clay deposits, which in turn were sealed by dumped rubble deposits in the late 19th century. A number of modern walls were present, but no evidence of earlier archaeological remains was recorded.

Watching brief and building recording by C Turner of HN revealed evidence of alterations to the building dating from the 1830s onwards. Excavations within the cellar revealed that the building had been terraced into the hill, removing any trace of earlier deposits.

Historic building recording by K Harrow and watching brief by S Price of ASE. The building is an example of a Board School constructed in the latter part of the 19th century, with a contemporary teacher’s house. The school was enlarged c 1900 with the addition of a large north-west range, and modifications and extensions to the original building. A number of ancillary buildings were constructed to the west between c 1900 and 1935.

Building recording by Boyer Planning following a fire recorded architectural features of the early 19th century building.

Evaluation by L Capon and R Ives of AOC revealed burials that had no surviving above-ground grave memorials. The burials could not be dated although the main phase of cemetery use was from 1843 to 1896 with some continued use of family graves up to 1968.

Photographic survey by Boast Associates prior to demolition of the Police Station buildings.