red maids

red maids: see purslane.

The Red Maids' School is an Independent school in Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.

Red Maids school was founded in 1634 from the bequest of John Whitson, Mayor and MP of Bristol, making it the oldest surviving girls' school in England.

The entrance lodge dates from 1830 and has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade II listed building.

History

Red Maids’ is the oldest surviving girls’ school in the country, founded in 1634 according to the will of John Whitson, Mayor and MP of Bristol. His original Red Maids’ Hospital provided a secure home for the orphaned or destitute daughters of freemen or burgesses of the City of Bristol, where they were taught to read and sew.

During World War I, the Red Maids' School was moved to Manor House, which is now part of the University of Bristol, while the school buildings in Westbury were used as a Red Cross hospital.

Founders Day

Pupils are proud of their unique history and enjoy Founder’s Day, the annual celebration of the life and vision of the founder, John Whitson, Mayor and MP of Bristol. Every year, Founders Day commemorates the attempted murder of John Whitson on November 7 1626. Christopher Callowhill stabbed him in the face with a dagger on that day. Whitson survived another two years before dying after falling from a horse.

Mission Statement

At The Red Maids’ School we aim to develop the academic ability of girls from many different backgrounds and to fulfil their potential by equipping them with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the modern world.

We encourage them in their social, personal, moral and spiritual development and we foster a sense of community through a friendly and caring environment, a strong pastoral system and a diverse range of extracurricular activities.

These aims are underpinned by a commitment to the roles of young women in 21st century society and by a strong awareness of the unique Red Maids’ heritage.

ISI Report

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visited the school in October 2003. Their Inspection Report on The Red Maids’ School was published in January 2004.

Among the main strengths of the school the report noted:

The warm and friendly ethos that is achieved strongly supports pupils’ learning and personal development.

-The realistic and committed leadership of the Headmistress and the Head Teacher.

Further praise included:

-Pupils show respect for the feelings, values and beliefs of others.

-Care for the individual is one of the school’s strengths.

-Pupils behave well in class and around the school. They are courteous and a pleasure to be with.

-Pastoral care is very good and makes a positive and effective contribution to the educational standards of both schools.

-The ICT facilities are excellent and make a significant contribution to the teaching and learning

See also

List of the oldest schools in the United Kingdom

References

External links

• Red Maids School
• Red Maids' Society
• The Independent Schools Council