South Lakes school to change its name (From The Westmorland Gazette)

South Lakes school to change its name

7:40pm Wednesday 10th March 2010 in

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A CONTROVERSIAL decision to change the name of a Lake District school is to go ahead in the autumn despite protests from more than 400 students and former pupils.

Head teacher Ian Lavender has announced that from September 1, Wind-ermere St Anne’s preparatory school – currently known as Elleray – and senior school will simply become known as Windermere School.

Earlier this month a student launced a Facebook campaign group against the name change, claiming it would wipe out 150 years of history.

But school governors and Mr Lavender remain unshaken and say the switch will put the school on the international map.

“The new name reflects the school’s unique location and character and also helps us to move away from the previous ‘girls only’ image which is hampering our progress,” said Mr Lavender.

“In order for us to build our reputation, increase our pupil numbers and achieve the growth and success we desire, we need to clarify and simplify our branding and ensure that it describes who we are.”

The move is supported by the alumni committee Stannites.

Vicki Jowett, chairman of the Stannite committee, said that in 1999 when the school became co-educational, it was agreed by the governing body that the name would be reviewed and changed when the time was appropriate.

“The governors now consider that this is the time to make the change,” she said.

Kimberley Lawther, a former student and leading activist against the change, said: “I am very disappointed. I think our campaign fell on deaf ears as the decision had clearly been made by the head and governors without consulting with us. We haven’t been able to have our say but we will keep fighting this.”

Miss Lawther has now set up another Facebook campaign – Stannites Against the Name Change of Windermere St Anne’s - which has 290 members.

Windermere St Anne’s educates boys and girls from three to 18 and currently has more than 370 pupils.

Mr Lavender added: “It is hoped that by renaming the school, good progress will be made in time for celebrations of its 150th birthday in 2013.”