On September 12 1842 The Nelson Branch of the British and Foreign School Society, with land and financial support from the Nelson Wakefield Company (forerunner of New Zealand Company), opens the first public school in Nelson, located in Bridge Street near the eel pond. The headmaster is William Moore
In 1859 Schools are established in Appleby and Collingwood. Bridge Street School is handed over to the Central Board

Colonist, 24 December 1858
THE SCHOOL EXAMINATION in Bridge-Street, Nelson
... The children of the public schools were examined on Monday and Tuesday last, and the result was exceedingly gratifying to all, but more especially to those persons who take an active interest in these momentous matters. The highly successful way in which the greater part of the children acquitted themselves, speaks well for the earnestness with which these important duties are pursued, and must have afforded much gratification to those who devote themselves to the task.
His Honour the Superintendent addressed them very appositely previous to presenting the various prize-books.
The fortunate, and consequently diligent scholars were:-
GIRLS
Mary BRENT
Clarissa CAZALY
Elizabeth LUCAS
Lucy LUCAS
Emily MacSHANE
Jane WHITE

BOYS
B. ALLEN
Archibald CLARK
Henry HEYWARD
George HODGSON
Edward JACKSON
Joseph LUCAS
George MORLEY

The following received prizes for attendance and good conduct:-
J. A. LANGFORD
Emma NORGROVE
Edward ROBINSON
Alfred SMART
Emily SMITH

Archdeacon Paul and Captain Rough presented prizes, for their knowledge of Scripture History to:-
Emily DALTON
Elizabeth LUCAS
Ellen LUCAS
Alfred STANTON

The children were then rewarded with the usual fare, and the meeting separated from a pleasurable duty, the children giving three cheers for the patrons and the Superintendent

PHOTO
Trafalgar Street, NELSON c1850-1860
from The Nelson Land District