Runnymede St Edward’s Catholic Primary School

Due to Runnymede’s recent change of status from a fee-paying independent school to a
voluntary-aided maintained school, the school enjoyed an official ‘re-opening’ led by
Archbishop Malcolm McMahon. This was a joyous occasion for the Runnymede St Edward’s
community and the Edmund Rice Trust as, due to Covid restrictions, the official opening had
been postponed since it opened its doors as a voluntary aided maintained school on the 1st
September 2020.

This status will enable future generations of children, from across Liverpool and beyond, to
experience a Catholic education in the truest tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice who, in
1802, formed a religious congregation that sought to improve the lives of the poor via
transformational education. Runnymede is part of a global network of schools united in the
spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice offering a liberating education, based on gospel spirituality,
within an inclusive community committed to justice and solidarity.

Runnymede children will benefit from a run through education to the outstanding St
Edward’s College with which the school shares first-class facilities. The school’s ongoing
unique status as the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir School, also means that choristers can
now be selected purely on musical excellence alone without the burden of school fees.
Upon his arrival at this momentous occasion, Archbishop Malcolm was warmly welcomed by
our Head Boy and Head Girl alongside invited guests who have supported Runnymede’s
journey. Archbishop Malcolm embarked upon a guided tour of the school observing the
exciting learning opportunities available to the Young Edwardians in each class. The children
asked a range of questions and volunteers were delighted to have the opportunity to be
photographed wearing his Mitre whilst holding his Crosier.

“Runnymede is a school steeped in tradition and synonymous with academic and extra-
curricular excellence,” said Headteacher Kate Peaston.

“This is an exciting time; I am privileged to be leading the school as it continues its journey
of growth and development. With our enthusiastic, highly skilled and dedicated staff,
supportive parents/carers and distinctive ethos, we strive to offer an ambitious and bespoke
educational experience that expands beyond the classroom and prepares our Young
Edwardian’s for the future.”
“It has been an honour to have overseen the school’s transition and enable an exciting new
future for this unique and inspiring school,” said Mr John McCabe, Runnymede Chair of
Governors.