Campus Times|Lucknow

Christ Church College, one of Lucknow’s long-standing educational institutions, began its journey in a modest setting nearly one and a half centuries ago. The institution started in 1878 as a small Anglo-Indian school with only two students. It was founded by Mr. H. McConoghey at Cantonment Road, Lucknow, at a time when formal education facilities in the area were limited.

Institutional Registration and Management Control

The school was formally registered as the Christ Church McConoghey School Society, Lucknow under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860. Administrative control was placed under the Diocese of Lucknow, Church of North India (C.N.I.), with its head office located at 25, M.G. Road, Allahabad. Over the years, this framework helped the institution maintain continuity in management and academic direction.

A Phase of Structural and Academic Development

A major turning point came on 31 January 1939, when the foundation stone of the college at its present location was laid by Lady Haig. For many years after that, the school functioned only up to Class VIII, catering mainly to local families. The academic structure expanded gradually, and by 1967, the institution was upgraded to an Intermediate College, allowing students to pursue higher secondary education on campus.

Infrastructure development gathered pace in the 1960s. A new building was added in 1960 and was inaugurated by the Lord Bishop of Lucknow. This phase marked the beginning of systematic growth. Science education received special attention with the establishment of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories, which improved classroom learning and practical exposure for students.

Infrastructure Development and Academic Affiliation

Further construction took place during the tenure of Mr. J. M. Ledlie, who served as Principal during a period of steady expansion. In 1972, a Principal’s Residence was built within the college premises. The Din Dayal Auditorium and the Administrative Block were also constructed during this time. These facilities were formally opened on 24 February 1975 by the then Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Dr. M. Chenna Reddy, and were dedicated by Rt. Rev. Din Dayal, Bishop of Lucknow.

The year 1975 also marked another important milestone when the college received affiliation with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), New Delhi, aligning it with national academic standards.

Growth Beyond Lucknow: New Branches and Campus Expansion

Expansion beyond Lucknow began in 1988, during the tenure of Late Mr. N. F. Cleophas, when a branch was opened in Rae Bareilly under the name St. James School. In 1990, Mr. V. Russell took charge and later initiated another branch, Raja Maharaj Singh School, within the Zahur Bux Church compound.

In 1996, a new four-storey academic block was laid by Rt. Rev. A. R. Stephen, Bishop of the Diocese of Lucknow, and dedicated to Late Rev. A. R. Yusuf. The campus was later expanded with a mini stadium, adding sports facilities for students.

Today, Christ Church College functions as a co-educational Anglo-Indian institution, serving nearly 2,500 students and continuing its role as a steady presence in Lucknow’s educational landscape.

Institute Snapshot

Established: 1878

Management: Christ Church McConoghey School Society

Affiliation: CISCE, New Delhi

Location: RWWW+5WG, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Raj Bhavan Colony, The Mall Avenue, Lucknow, (U.P.)

Contact: 0522-2239138

Email: christchurchcollege.lko@gmail.com

Website: https://ccclucknow.com/