Frederick Attenborough facts for kids

Frederick Levi Attenborough (born April 4, 1887, died March 20, 1973) was an important British teacher and leader. He was the head of University College, Leicester, which later became the University of Leicester. He is also known for being the father of famous sons, including the actor Richard Attenborough and the naturalist David Attenborough.

Frederick's Early Life and Education

Frederick was born in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire. His parents, Mary and Frederick, were very religious. He went to school in Long Eaton. In 1913, he became a teacher at The Long Eaton Higher Elementary School. This school was started by Samuel Clegg.

In 1922, Frederick married Samuel Clegg's daughter, Mary Clegg.

Studying at Cambridge University

In 1915, Frederick went to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, one of the famous universities in England. He was a special student there and earned a top degree in languages. From 1918 to 1925, he continued his studies and research at the college. During this time, he published a book about some of the earliest English laws.

Leading Colleges and Universities

From 1925 to 1932, Frederick Attenborough was the head of Borough Road Training College in Isleworth. This college later became part of the West London Institute of Higher Education.

Becoming Principal of University College, Leicester

In 1932, Frederick became the principal (or head) of University College, Leicester. He and his family lived on the campus in a building called College House. Today, part of the university's Mathematics department is in that building.

Helping Refugee Children During World War II

During World War II, the Attenborough family did something very kind. They welcomed two Jewish refugee sisters, Irene and Helga, into their home. These girls were part of the Kindertransport program, which helped children escape danger. One of the sisters even gave Frederick's son, David, a piece of amber. This gift helped spark David's lifelong interest in the natural world.

Growing the University of Leicester

Frederick Attenborough was a very good leader for University College, Leicester. Under his guidance, the college grew a lot and became well-known. Eventually, in 1957, it officially became the University of Leicester.

A Building Named in His Honor

The university honored Frederick by naming a building after him. The Attenborough Building is an 18-story tower and the tallest building on the campus. It opened in 1970. Frederick was quite old and frail by then, so his youngest son, John, opened the building for him.

Frederick Attenborough passed away on March 20, 1973, at the age of 85.

Frederick's Family

Frederick Attenborough was married to Mary Clegg from 1922 until she died in 1961. They had three sons, all of whom became successful in their own ways:

• Richard Samuel Attenborough (1923–2014): He became a famous actor and film director. You might know him from movies like Jurassic Park.
• David Frederick Attenborough (born 1926): He is now known as Sir David. He is a world-famous TV naturalist, known for his amazing nature documentaries.
• John Michael Attenborough (1928–2012): He was a successful executive at the car company Alfa Romeo.

The University of Leicester, with the Attenborough building in the centre. This building is named after Frederick Attenborough.