Why did Hinchingbrooke School rename Pepys House?

Hinchingbrooke School students voted to rename Pepys House due to recent research revealing Samuel Pepys's harmful and exploitative treatment of women.

What is Samuel Pepys known for?

Samuel Pepys is a 17th-century diarist famous for his detailed accounts of events like the Great Fire of London and the Great Plague.

Are there other school names changing at Hinchingbrooke School?

No, only Pepys House is being renamed. The Pepys Building and Pepys Stairs will retain their names, and the school still values its historical association with Samuel Pepys.

Home / Education / Students Vote to Remove Pepys Name Due to Treatment of Women

Students Vote to Remove Pepys Name Due to Treatment of Women

13 Jan

•

Summary

Pepys House at Hinchingbrooke School will be renamed following student vote.
Students cited Pepys's harmful, abusive, and exploitative treatment of women.
Historical association with Pepys remains, but house name is changing.

Students Vote to Remove Pepys Name Due to Treatment of Women

Hinchingbrooke School students have voted to remove the name of Samuel Pepys from one of its pastoral houses. Pepys House will seek a new historical figurehead after a significant number of students cast votes to change the name. This decision follows revelations about the 17th-century diarist's personal conduct.

The school informed parents late last year that new research into Pepys's diaries revealed actions that were 'harmful, abusive and exploitative, especially in his relations with women.' These documented behaviors were deemed incompatible with the school's core values of respect, equality, and kindness.