Clacton-on-Sea and relatively dry summers (which also enhances the towns popularity as a sea-side town), but also fairly chilly winter days. For the 1961–1990 observation period, Clacton averaged 103.7 days with at least 1mm of rain annually, and just 24.3 air frosts a year- comparable to south west coastal locations. Clacton's population increased substantially during the 20th century from 7,456 at the 1901 census to 25,000 in the 1960s, 45,065 in 1991 and reaching over 53,000 by 2001. St Osyth's Teacher Training College occupied several buildings in Clacton, mostly along Marine Parade East, until its amalgamation with the North East Essex
Clacton Coastal Academy 1953, a new building on the west side of Pathfields Road was opened as the 'Clacton County Secondary School for Girls' with Miss Lawrence as Headmistress. The original building on the east site became the 'Clacton County Secondary School for Boys' with Mr K. Portman as Headmaster. In September 1973 the two schools were amalgamated to form Colbayns High School under the headship of Mr. D. King. He was succeeded by Mr. J. Midgley in 1984. In 1988, Mr. John Holt, who joined the staff in 1964, became Headmaster. With the Governing Body, he saw the school through into successful