Scott Lidgett Secondary School alumni took a trip down memory lane recently, visiting the site of their old school which is now the new Charter School Bermondsey. The original Scott Lidgett opened in 1971, named after a Methodist leader who made a positive impact on the Bermondsey area. Though the school closed in 1991, the alumni network has remained remarkably active for over 35 years.
The visit wasn’t just a nostalgic walk through the past. The Scott Lidgett alumni were treated to a barbeque with current staff of the Charter School Bermondsey, where stories flowed freely about curriculum changes, discipline methods of yesteryear, and of course, the inevitable tales of student and teacher antics.
Principal Marcus Huntley led the alumni on a tour of the impressive new building. They peeked into classrooms, reminisced in the hallways, and even enjoyed a friendly kickaround on the rooftop Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).
The visit served to solidify the bond between the Scott Lidgett legacy and the new Charter School Bermondsey. David Shand, head of the Scott Lidgett Alumni Association, pledged to maintain the connection. In a particularly touching gesture, the alumni association has agreed to sponsor a prize at the school in the name of the late John Pritchard, the former principal of Scott Lidgett. John’s son, Sion Pritchard was present for the visit, making it a truly special occasion.
“What struck me about yesterday and talking to your staff is that as much as times, attitudes, and approaches have changed since Scott Lidgett’s time, many of the challenges you face now are the same as those in the 1970s and 1980s. What I see in them is the same dedication and determination to benefit Bermondsey children and allow them to aspire and achieve. We couldn’t ask for a better legacy than that.” David Shand
This reunion wasn’t just a look back, but a bridge between the past and the future, ensuring that the spirit of Scott Lidgett continues to inspire students in Bermondsey.
Sonita Alleyne celebrates opening with head students, trustees and school principal.
There were joyous scenes today as the school celebrated the official opening of its new state-of-the-art school facility. The new building on Keeton’s Road, Bermondsey, marks a significant milestone in the school’s development, and for the provision of exceptional secondary education in the community.
The new school was opened by Sonita Alleyne OBE, businesswoman and entrepreneur, and the first female Master of Jesus College Cambridge since its foundation in 1496. The opening was celebrated with current students and guests including alumni, staff, governors, and trustees past and present. They were joined by representatives from the Department of Education, the London Borough of Southwark and the livery companies who have supported the school, including the Worshipful Companies of Pewterers, Curriers, Gardeners and Pattenmakers.
In her opening address, Ms Alleyne praised the incredible attitude of the students she met on her tour. She spoke about the fantastic teaching and recreational spaces, the light feel to the building, and these being the facilities that students deserve, and must expect as they go into the world.
Sonita Alleyne said, “It is truly a privilege to be invited to open this school. I would have loved to have been a student here…it is one of the best things I have ever done.”
Before the official ceremony, guests had the opportunity to explore the brand-new facility and meet staff and students in their lessons. The new campus boasts modern, purpose-built classrooms equipped with the latest technology, fully equipped science and computer labs, extensive sports facilities, a well-stocked library and dedicated teaching spaces for Drama, Art and Food Technology. The site also offers flexible spaces that can be used for the school’s extracurricular activities and will also be available for community use.
Marcus Huntley, Principal, said; “We are thrilled to finally realise our vision for a contemporary learning environment. Our new building embodies our commitment to delivering high-quality education, fostering creativity and nurturing the holistic growth of our students.”
“We will use this as a platform to soar to even greater heights, just as we now soar over Bermondsey, seeing the spire of St James’, Tower Bridge, the Shard, St Paul’s, Canary Wharf, and our extraordinary city.”
“Together with the Charter Schools family, we will provide a truly inspiring education for this fantastic community, empowering students to become responsible global citizens who are prepared to embrace the challenges of the future.”
Visiting The Charter School Bermondsey
Parents and carers of students hoping to join us in September 2024 or 2025 are invited to book a space at our open event, Saturday 24th February 9.30 am – 12.30 pm.
For more information about the school please contact our team at info@charterbermondsey.org.uk
We are excited to be part of this year’s “Saluting our Sisters” theme for Black History Month. Our programme kicks off with a launch in Learning Family Time, sharing the importance of BHM with students, and this year’s focus on women. We will be joined by Clare Williams PhD in our launch assembly, and later in the month by Stephen Bourne, author of “Black Poppies.” There will be music, hair care workshops, learning about becoming an entrepreneur and celebrations of our own “sisters” in school.
Students have also started to share their own “salutes to sisters” and invite you to do the same. The best entries will be published in our Sway linked in the image below. Post your entry, celebrating a “sister” who has contributed to black history, on our Facebook page, or if you are a student, email Mr. Huntley.
The Charter School Bermondsey
Keeton’s Road
London SE16 4EE
Telephone: 0203 542 6506
Email: info@charterbermondsey.org.uk
Twitter: @CharterSe16
