Westcliff High School for Boys and Westcliff High School for Girls are prestigious grammar schools located in Southend-on-Sea. They have a long history of academic excellence and offer a wide range of educational opportunities for students in the area. The boys school states their focus and purpose is to provide excellent education for their pupils, supporting them in their journey to adulthood, developing character and intellect within a happy and scholarly community. The girls school states they have high aspirations for all their students, and it is their vision to empower their students to be the next generation of leaders and enrich their lives so they can grow and flourish into exceptional young adults.
The Kursaal in Southend is a historic amusement park and grade 2 listed building. Originally known as the Kursaal Palace, its grand entrance pavilion was opened in 1901 as one of the world’s first purpose-built amusement parks. It contained a circus, a ballroom, an arcade, a dining hall and a billiard room. The amusement park was home to Southend United F.C. from 1919-1934. In 1973, most of the site was closed, with the rest closing in 1986. The building remained derelict until it was redeveloped in the late 1990’s, opening again in 1998 containing a bowling alley, casino and other amusements. The bowling alley closed permanently in 2019 and the casino in 2020. From 2020, the building again remains empty. It entertained visitors for many years, offering a variety of attractions including rides, games and entertainment options for all ages. It’s a fun place to visit for a day of excitement and nostalgia.
On March 1st 2022, Southend-on-Sea received City status in the wake of the tragic death of MP Sir David Amess. The council state that being a city by the sea gives Southend the opportunity to raise its profile nationally and further afield, this leverage will maximise tourism, generate more inward investment into the Borough. This will benefit the local people, economy, and businesses.
