St Ethelburga's Home For Girls, Loughton

This Home's origins lay with the Alexandra Home for Girls in Kilburn, north London. The Alexandra Home moved from its location because the Society thought the old house was too cramped for the children's needs, and it disagreed with the 'sooty little garden over-looking the railway'. When more suitable premises were found during 1908, in York Hill, Loughton - the Alexandra Home moved and became St Ethelburga's. The children now had a house with a good garden, and plenty of space to play.

The new Home was officially opened by the Bishop of Barking on 3 July 1908. Loughton, on the borders of Epping Forest, was perfect for the 40 girls (who were aged 8-14) to show off their crop growing skills. For the first time they had they own little gardens could grow vegetables under the supervision of Miss Harland, the Matron. The Home also included eight house-girls who would remain at the house for two years after leaving school, in order to learn housework skills.

The Home closed in 1923.