News / Edward Colston
New name for Colston’s Primary School
Colston’s Primary School has revealed its new name as it becomes the latest Bristol institution to shed links to the notorious slave trader.
The school says it is proud of the way its pupils, staff, parents and alumni have contributed to the wider debate of how the city marks its history, as it prepares to change to Cotham Gardens Primary School from September.
The new name is thought to better reflect the school’s motto of ‘Celebrating Diversity, Learning Together’, while clearly signposting its location.
is needed now More than ever
The decision to remove the name of Edward Colston from the school was made following consultation and comes in the wake of the news that Colston Hall will reopen under a different moniker after its refurbishment.
Countering Colston have long campaigned for the city to end its public celebration of the slave trader.
In a statement issued on behalf of the school’s governing body, headteacher Alex Bell and chair of governors Kate Swainson Price said:
“We are proud of our school’s name change journey and the opportunities it has given, and continues to give the children on lots of levels.
“Our heritage project this year has helped, and continues to help the children have a better understanding of Bristol’s relationship with its past. The curriculum will continue to ensure the children learn about the past and the key figures involved as part of our pledge to further develop our curriculum in conjunction with a name change.
“We are also proud of the way our school community has contributed to the wider debate across Bristol. governors, staff, parents and carers and children alike have played their part in modelling open, respectful debate and democracy at its best.”
Pupils are now being tasked with coming up with ideas for the school’s new logo, which will be unveiled as part of the 70th birthday celebrations on June 30.
Main image from Google street view.
Read more: Colston’s Girls’ School to remove references to Edward Colston in annual ceremony
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