Royal Sutton School renaming – it’s official! Students, staff and members of the community joined VIPs to celebrate the official renaming of the Royal Sutton School – in the latest milestone in its journey of improvement.
Last year the Royal Sutton School — which is part of the respected Arthur Tery Learning Partnership — began a groundbreaking transition, with new uniforms, school colours, a readopted motto, a set of inspirational character virtues for students and a stunning new logo.
But the biggest change was in its name — as it announced it was switching from John Willmott School to the Royal Sutton School, celebrating the ancient status of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield.
And on Friday, March 28th the change was given Royal approval in a ceremony attended by VIPs including Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands Timothy Hodgetts, Councillor John Perks, Mayor of Sutton Coldfield, and Sutton MP Andrew Mitchell, who proudly cut the ribbon.
Other guests included Lisa Martinali, the new CEO of Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, two former headteachers Tracy Peters and Mandy McCrohon, as well as Chris Willmott — the great grandson of John Willmott, the former town councillor for whom the school was originally named.
The VIPs entered to the sunny sounds of the school’s steel drum band, and were treated to spectacular musical performances, including a choir piece.
Students, staff and guests then gathered to hear speeches commemorating the historic name change.
In her speech, Headteacher Nicola Gould passionately spoke of the many achievements and changes the school has made in recent months.
She said: “Today, we proudly celebrate a new era, built on an unshakable belief in the potential of every young person who walks through our doors.
“In December 2023, we achieved something truly historic — a Good OFSTED rating. But this achievement is more than just an inspection result. It represents a cultural shift — one that demonstrates aspiration, strengthened character, and a shared mission to turn potential into reality.”
Mrs Gould also announced the Royal Sutton School’s four new ‘Intellectual Virtues’, which will be introduced to the school’s ethos in September: curiosity, autonomy, tenacity and articulacy. Alongside this, new ‘Virtues Ambassador’ leadership roles will be introduced for the students.
Mrs Gould said: “To succeed in an ever-changing world, young people must develop the scholarly skills to think critically, communicate effectively, and persevere in the face of challenge. Our new Intellectual Virtues will encourage them to develop these skills.”
Royal Sutton School renaming event showcases Royal connection
The ceremony proudly showcased the school’s new Royal connection, with the Deputy Lord Lieutenant Tim Hodgetts serving as the King’s representative.
He said: “What a fabulous day to come to this relaunching of the school, to see so much enthusiasm and talent on show, and so much potential.
Royal Sutton School renaming ceremony
“As the King’s representative, I’m here to see the Royal name change. Within the Lieutenancy we are here to represent the King when he is unable to attend himself, and I’m sure His Majesty would have been delighted to see what was on show today.”
Mrs Gould celebrated the school’s new Royal identity.
She said: “Being formally known as The Royal Sutton School reflects our deep connection to this historic town, our legacy of education, and the vision of transformation we have.
“Our new school colours, inspired by the Royal Tudor Rose and the Sutton Coldfield Coat of Arms, will symbolise our unwavering commitment to character, scholarship, and service.”
But the name change does not mean the school’s ties to Sutton’s past are being severed.
Mrs Gould announced that in recognition of his 38 years of service to Sutton Coldfield Council and his role as Chair of the Libraries Committee, the school’s newly refurbished library will be named after John Wilmott, as well as two prestigious awards.
His great grandson Chris Wilmott was another VIP guest at the ceremony.
He said: “Today has been tremendous. The emphasis put on the virtues was something I connected with, and which I feel would very strongly resonate with my great grandfather. It’s wonderful to see his name being kept alive at the school with the library and prizes.”
The joyful ceremony marked a new start for the Royal Sutton School which, as part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, has all the community support it needs to succeed.
The task of cutting the ribbon to officially rename the school went to MP Andrew Mitchell, who has supported the move since it was first mooted.
He said: “As Sutton’s MP, I have been visiting this school for nearly a quarter of a century and have been hugely impressed by the improvements made over the last few years.
“It’s not just about the new name, the smart new uniform and colour scheme – it’s about the change in mindset that is driving the students to achieve more, engage with their community and take real pride in their school.
“I was honoured to cut the ribbon and signal a new milestone for a school which is making real strides in serving the community.”
Mrs Gould said: “The Royal Sutton School is more than a name—it is a promise, a vision, and a future. A future in which every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to turn their potential into reality.”