It was founded in the 19th century as Branscombe House School and permanently closed following damages in World War II.
[5] In December of that year, the Archdeacon of Exeter Ernest Sandford said in a speech at St. Hilda's that it was "an excellent expression of a class of school for which he anticipated a very considerable future.
[4] After World War I, Misses Crabb and Sanford dissolved their partnership, leaving the latter as sole principal.
[4] During World War II, St Hilda's and the neighbouring pairs of houses were destroyed by German air raids.
The surviving annexe, swimming pool, and dining room were used by neighbouring schools.