Last Friday, we once again honoured a remarkable piece of our history as we celebrated the 391st anniversary of Redmaids’ High School. Founded by John Whitson in 1634, and later joined in legacy by Reverends T. G. Rose and Urijah Thomas of Redland High School, our story is one of vision, courage, and a deep commitment to education. Founders’ Commemoration Day gives us a chance each year to pause and reflect on the people whose decisions nearly four centuries ago shaped the school we know and love today.
One of the most special traditions of Founders' Day is the march around College Green, a moment that links past and present in such a tangible way. Led this year by our Head Girls, Alice Harding and Prarthana Reddy, the students brought energy and pride to the occasion, filling the space with a sense of community and continuity. With the sun shining brilliantly, the procession made its way to Bristol Cathedral for the annual service.
Throughout the day, we asked students what they felt makes Redmaids’ High the best place to be, and their answers were genuinely moving. They spoke about being creative, being free, making friends, and being themselves - simple but powerful reflections of what the school means to them. These are the moments that remind us that Redmaids’ High is more than its long history; it is a place where young people feel they belong and where staff work every day to help them thrive, express who they are, and grow with confidence.
It’s easy to imagine that our founders would be proud to see how far the school has come - proud of the strong community that surrounds it and the young people who carry its spirit forward. Their early vision has grown into something vibrant, compassionate, and deeply rooted in a shared sense of purpose.
As our Head, Paul Dwyer, reflected at the end of the day:
'Founders’ Commemoration Day reminds us not only of where we have come from, but of the purpose that continues to guide us. Seeing our students celebrate with such pride and joy - being creative, being themselves, and supporting one another - is a powerful reminder of what makes Redmaids’ High so special. Our founders laid the foundations, but it is our community today that carries their vision forward.'
To find out more about the School and its history, click HERE.