The Old Rectory — Our Home
A historic building with a modern purpose
ConnectFirst Academy is proudly based at The Old Rectory, 57 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton — a landmark 5,000 sq ft building opposite the iconic Molineux Stadium. Rich in heritage and character, it provides a unique setting that reflects our belief that education should inspire, challenge and transform lives.
A building with a story
While many educational settings are defined by classrooms and corridors, we believe the environment itself plays an important role in shaping experiences, aspirations and outcomes. The Old Rectory offers a welcoming and purposeful setting where learners can feel safe, valued and motivated to succeed.
It is a building that has stood the test of time — and now provides opportunities for the next generation of young people to write their own stories.
A place steeped in local history
Dora Penny — “Dorabella”
The building is associated with Dora Penny, a remarkable woman remembered as a cyclist, singer and musician. She lived at The Old Rectory between 1895 and 1914 and became known as “Dorabella”, immortalised through her connection with Sir Edward Elgar’s famous Enigma Variations (Variation 10).
Her story of talent, creativity, individuality and achievement resonates strongly with the values we seek to develop in our learners today. Just as Dora Penny became known for her unique gifts, we believe every young person has strengths, talents and potential waiting to be discovered.
The history of this building reminds us that every individual has a story, every person has value, and every young person can make a positive contribution to society.
A building that reflects our values
The Old Rectory is more than an address. Like the building itself, we believe in strong foundations. We believe in preserving what is valuable while preparing for the future. We believe in creating environments where people feel a sense of belonging.
The character of the building creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere that supports positive relationships, personal growth and meaningful learning. For many young people, the academy becomes more than a place of education — it becomes a place where confidence is rebuilt and futures begin to take shape.
Our learning environment is designed to support
- Personalised learning pathways
- Small-group teaching
- Individual mentoring and support
- Academic achievement
- Personal development
- Emotional wellbeing
- Confidence building
- Career and progression planning
A symbol of ambition and community
Directly opposite The Old Rectory stands Molineux Stadium, home of Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club. For generations, Molineux has represented ambition, teamwork, perseverance, resilience and community pride — the same qualities central to the culture we build at ConnectFirst Academy.
Every day, our learners are reminded that success comes through commitment, effort, teamwork and belief in what is possible.
In the heart of Wolverhampton
Our location places learners at the centre of one of the West Midlands’ most historic and ambitious cities. Wolverhampton has a proud tradition of enterprise, industry, creativity and community.
Being located on Waterloo Road enables us to build strong connections with employers, community organisations, cultural institutions and educational partners throughout the city and beyond.
The Old Rectory
57 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4QH
Well connected
Easily accessible by public transport, rail and road, close to the city centre.
“The Old Rectory is not simply where ConnectFirst Academy is located. It is part of who we are — a historic building with a modern purpose, where history meets opportunity.”
Visit The Old Rectory
We would be glad to tell you more about our home and our work with young people.