The Holy Trinity School in Barbuda celebrated the 100 th anniversary of its
founding last week with several activities, including a thanksgiving service, last
Friday, with the Governor General, Sir Rodney Williams, and Education Minister,
Daryll Matthew among those in attendance.
The school was formed by the Anglican Church, it was named after the Anglican
church in Codrington – Holy Trinity. Along with the thanksgiving service, other
activities included an art and craft exhibition sponsored by the B-Foundation, a
group of Barbudans in the diaspora, and a social event where senior members of
the community told of their experiences while attending the school during their
youth. This was held on the school’s lawn with ‘bun and cheese’ being shared
among attendees. Another group – Team Buda – provided T-shirts for the events.
According to acting principal, Michael Francois, Holy Trinity has a current
enrolment of 166 students. The school caters to students from kindergarten to
Grade 6. For years, it was the only educational institution on the island as it also
had a secondary school section.
However, since the coming into being of the Sir McChesney George Secondary
School in 2005, it reverted to being a primary school.
In his remarks at the Thanksgiving ceremony, Sir Rodney highlighted the historic
and important role the school has played in educating the people of Barbuda over
many generations.
“This institution, the first and sole public primary school on Barbuda, has been a
cradle of knowledge, shaping generations of individuals who have gone on to make
substantial contributions both locally and globally. We celebrate the fact that
today’s Barbudan youths, such as National Youth Parliamentarian Ezekiel
Francois, are making their voices heard. From politicians to scientists, medical
practitioners to entrepreneurs, fisherfolk to educators, and creatives—the alumni of
Holy Trinity have left an indelible mark on the nation of Antigua and Barbuda,”
Sir Rodney remarked.
The Governor General noted that the school’s commitment to holistic education is
evident not only in academic achievements but also in its engagement with the
community.
Also addressing the service were the Parliamentary Representative -Trevor
Walker, Director of Education – Clare Browne, and former principal – John
Mussington.