Academy has Stanley’s name written all over it

Many people living in the vicinity of the new academy believe the name Stanley should be incorporated into the name of the school in honour of William Stanley.

At the recent South Norwood and Selhurst Neighbourhood Partnership meeting, residents voted unanimously to keep the legacy of William Stanley alive when the school is re-opened in September 2007.

At the meeting, residents asked for the new academy to be named Harris at Stanley.

However Dr Moynihan, principle at Harris City Technology College, insisted the proposed name for the new school was likely to be Harris at South Norwood, leaving residents outraged.

Dr Moynihan said changing the name would help the school leave behind the failings of the old school and the reputation it had with some parents.

Selhurst councillor Timothy Godfrey wants to ensure Stanley is part of the new academy's name.

He said: "The name Harris at Stanley, obviously recognises this will be a new school with a fresh start, but clearly also respects the culture and heritage of South Norwood."

South Norwood councillor Jane Avis, who has championed the South Norwood residents' cause, disagrees with Dr Moynihan's view that the name of the school will determine it's future.

Coun Avis said: "Dr Moynihan does himself and the principle of the new academy, Carolyn English, a disservice when he says that a change of name changes a school. It is good leadership that achieves that.

"He and his predecessor made Harris CTC the success it is today as Carolyn English will undoubtedly do for Stanley in the future."

At last Monday's full council meeting leader of the council Mike Fisher admitted he would like to see it included.

But Coun Fisher told the Croydon Guardian the decision was for the academy to make.

He said: "It would be a shame to lose Stanley from the name."

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