School considers ending tradition of naming house after Samuel Pepys

Hinchingbrooke School in Huntingdon is reviewing the name of one of its houses due to concerns over how the historical figure it honors treated women. Pepys House, named after the 17th-century diarist Samuel Pepys, is at the center of this discussion.

The school recently informed parents that "recent research on Pepys personal behaviour highlights actions that were harmful, abusive, and exploitative, particularly in his interactions with women." Principal Andy Hunter commented, "We are currently examining what standards of behaviour are reasonable to expect from historical figures."

Samuel Pepys is famous for his diaries from the 1660s, documenting events such as the Great Fire of London and the Great Plague. Hinchingbrooke School, which has five houses named after historical figures tied to its past, including Pepys and Oliver Cromwell, is consulting students on the potential renaming of Pepys House.

The email to parents was sent by associate principal Femi Solano and history teacher Tom Wheeley, who is also a trustee of the Hinchingbrooke Foundation. It stated: "While Pepys is an important historical figure who once attended our school, his diaries reveal actions that were harmful, abusive, and exploitative, especially in his treatment of women. These behaviours do not align with the values we uphold respect, equality, kindness, and high standards."

A recent biography, The Confessions of Samuel Pepys by historian Guy de la Bedoyere, explores Pepys private life, including his treatment of his wife, servants, and mistresses.

Founded in 1565 as Huntingdon Grammar, the school now has over 2,000 students. The email emphasized that house names are more than labels they are meant to inspire students. "It is important to ask whether Pepys House should continue to bear this name. Unlike other houses named after historic families, Pepys House represents a single individual," the message explained.

The school stressed that this review is not about erasing history, but about ensuring that figures celebrated as role models reflect the values students are encouraged to embody. "Pepys will remain part of our schools rich history, but we must consider if he should be highlighted as a symbol of the pastoral system," the email added.

Mr. Hunter told the BBC that the discussion provides an opportunity for students to engage with issues like cancel culture and evaluate how understanding the past should influence present decisions. "We trust our students to think critically, approach this matter with maturity, and reach a balanced, informed conclusion. Whatever the community decides will be respected," he said.

Author: Olivia Parker