The school was founded in 970 A.D., making it the oldest school in England. One of the boys' boarding houses, School House, is claimed to be the oldest residential building in Europe. Valuing traditions the school has invested in the future with a new Art centre and the very impressive Sixth Form building. Rowing is extremely popular and the school also has its own boat house, next to Cambridge University's on the River Great Ouse. The Cathedral of Ely which is used for weekly school services is a well-known monument in the area because of it prominent shape and age.