Our history

Chailey Heritage Foundation was founded in 1903 by Grace Kimmins, who was passionate about helping children with disabilities. At that time it was known as The Heritage Craft Schools and Hospitals for Crippled Children.

Grace took over a former parish workhouse in rural East Sussex and brought with her seven disabled children from East London to their 'place in the country.'

In this beautiful and tranquil setting they could be cared for, medically treated and educated in what became the first purpose-built school for children with disabilities in this country.

As the foundation grew, Grace secured patronage of royalty, aristocracy, affluent businessmen and the press to help finance additional building work through appeals or gifts.

With more than a century of history, Chailey has gone on to deal with a range of conditions through the decades such as tuberculosis, rickets, polio and those affected by the drug Thalidomide. During both World Wars, injured soldiers were brought here to be treated.