A Mansfield school celebrated its 70th birthday by remembering the famous woman it was named after.

Ethel Wainwright, Mansfield’s first female mayor in 1929, was a strong supporter of the Women’s Suffrage Movement and known for her dedication to improving education for children in the area.

She achieved many firsts in the town, including being the first lady councillor, magistrate, alderman, and mayor, as well as being the first lady freeman in the country.

Ethel Wainwright Primary Academy hosted a day of activities to mark the milestone and give pupils a chance to learn about the woman behind the school’s name. Youngsters looked back at what school life was like in different decades since the academy first opened its doors, reflecting on how education has changed over the years.

Principal Carly Ripley said: “We take great pride in celebrating our connection to Ethel Wainwright. Within the academy, we want the children to learn about inspirational people whose lives have had an impact on modern Britain and the wider world. Ethel is a shining example.

“Each year we celebrate Ethel Wainwright Day as part of our commitment to curriculum enrichment, giving pupils the chance to learn about this exceptional woman’s life and her contributions to education in Mansfield.”

Joining in the event was Mansfield MP Steve Yemm, whose three daughters attended the school. He is pictured above at the celebrations

“It was a privilege to be invited to to celebrate 70 years of the school’s establishment and namesake, Ethel Wainwright — a pioneer Labour woman in education policy and an associate of my predecessor, Bernard Taylor, who was Labour MP for Mansfield from 1941 to 1966 and a good friend of mine prior to his death in 1991.

“Thank you to all the pupils, staff, and parents who took time to speak to me about education.”