[citation needed] Dr Andrew Bell invented a system for educating hundreds of children with only one Master assisted by senior boys.

The charity school continued to function in the original buildings which were eventually enlarged in 1818 to accommodate 100 boys and 100 girls.

Davenant International was formed against a backdrop of increased awareness and concern for social justice and a stand against world poverty.

The students heeded the call to take global issues such as Make Poverty History, Aids, The Tsunami Disaster, Children of Chernobyl seriously: 'We live in one world.

To recognise that we are all members of a world community and that we all have responsibilities to each other is not romantic rhetoric, but modern economic and social reality.

'[1] 'The school curriculum should contribute to the development of pupils' sense of identity through knowledge and understanding of the spiritual, moral, social and cultural heritages of Britain's diverse society and of the local, national....and global dimensions of their lives....the schools curriculum should...secure their commitment to sustainable development at a personal local, national and global level.

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair in a special message to Davenant students said: 'I am delighted to hear about the launch of 'Davenant International'.

The forum will provide an opportunity for pupils to debate and discuss a range of global issues in a lively and meaningful way.

I wish the school every success in fostering the enthusiasm and creativeness of their pupils through this forum and their future work in this area.'