Boscobel Primary 125 and going strong

FOR 125 years Boscobel primary has contributed to the development of Barbados and continues to grow from strength to strength.

 

Yesterday past and present teachers and students, as well as specially invited guests, joined the congregation at the St. Philip the Less Anglican Church in St. Peter to celebrate the momentous occasion during a special anniversary service.

 

It was held under patronage of Governor General of Barbados His Excellency Sir Elliott Belgrave, a past student of the school, who said he was “delighted to be back home” and recounted fond memories of the school, which he proudly reminded the congregation was then an elementary school for boys. He recalled that then principal Mr. Riley, along with a strong cadre of support staff, laid a solid foundation for the students. He further told the congregation that the school is where he developed his love for agriculture and gardening, and assured that he will be visiting the school in the near future. 

 

 

Minister of Education Ronald Jones was also in attendance and lauded the school, which was opened in January 1892. He too highlighted the contribution made to the development of the island through the many distinguished sons and daughters of the soil who passed through the St. Peter institution.

 

Recalling that a few years ago several schools were renamed with the blessing of the Cabinet of Barbados, he said the same could be done for the primary school. He stressed however that such a move would only be possible if an outstanding citizen of Barbados, an exemplar of Boscobel, or of the school, was chosen, with the requisite research and with the blessings of the community. He said only then would they submit such a recommendation, which would then have to be considered by Ministry officials before taking it to the level of Cabinet for approval.

 

Priest in Charge Reverend Jerome Small also congratulated Boscobel Primary, saying that students must be able to show what they learned there, not only in terms of academics but also life-skills and respect for self and others.

 

“This school has a goodly heritage,” he said. He added that their experiences must continue to forge them into great citizens so that outside of these walls, their potential will blossom. “Every child that enters this school and any school has the potential to be great. They can be their best at whatever they choose to do. We need to make sure we do our very best to shape their lives positively,” he said. (JH)