A momentous and historic day

On Friday, our entire school community processed through Bristol to mark Founders’ Commemoration Day. Led by Head Girl Anjali Mehta, the students were following in the footsteps of many generations of alumnae.

The girls made a striking sight as they walked in line to Bristol Cathedral from the Welsh Back for a special service marking the founding fathers of our historic school. The girls were welcomed by Canon Nicola Stanley, Canon Precentor of Bristol Cathedral and enjoyed an address from The Rt Revd Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton, the fifth female Bishop in the Church of England.

Reverends T G Rose and Urijah Thomas opened Redland High School in 1882 and John Whitson founded The Red Maids’ School in 1634. They were visionary people who saw a unique opportunity for girls. When Redmaids’ High School was formed in 2016, it brought these two distinguished schools together to combine over 500 years of expertise.

This special annual occasion attracts people back to Bristol from across the country as alumnae, parents and members of the public line the route to watch this grand spectacle pass by.

Headmistress Isabel Tobias said, “This is an extremely important day for us as we gather to celebrate the heritage of both Red Maids’ and Redland High, and remember our founding fathers who were progressive enough to pledge money for the education of Bristol’s young women. It is also a day to reflect, and give thanks for this outstanding school that continues to thrive and flourish.”