The Burslem Sunday School began elsewhere in 1787, when a group of teachers and preachers belonging to the Wesleyan Connection saw the need to establish a school to cater for the rapidly increasing number of children. In a short time it acquired great popularity and support from local citizens because of its teaching, which helped to restore some sort of order at a time of increasing vandalism.

The children were instructed in reading, writing and recitation, and became very proud of their accomplishments.

As the school became more successful, so did its independence from the Wesleyan Church. The preachers were opposed to the teaching of non-religious knowledge on the Sabbath and a dispute became inevitable. After a confrontation with the school management and unsuccessful attempts to reach an amicable solution, the Trustees, in May, 1836, decided to close it. After unsuccessful negotiations to re-open the school, the teachers, with the support of the parents and children, decided to erect a large wooden tabernacle as temporary accommodation until such times as more suitable premises became available. The dream became a reality, when in 1837, the building we see today was erected."