A large Cornish secondary school is inviting people to give their opinion on rebranding plans, including the possibility of changing their name and the color of their uniform.

Poltair School in St Austell sent a letter to parents this week giving them some details of the proposals as well as an online survey for them about the possible name change.

One of the key changes would be to switch from the traditional green uniform and school color scheme to a new red uniform.

If the school changes its name, it wouldn’t be the first time – it was originally opened as St Austell County School before being known as St Austell Grammar and eventually named Poltair School in the 1970s.

The high school, which is part of the Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT), sent out the letter explaining some of the “significant changes” that could be made.

He explained that CELT had provided more than £ 1.75million to help develop the school site, including a new library, entrance hall and the redevelopment of the creative arts blocks and music. This is in addition to the renovation of computer facilities and new resources for students.

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The letter, from Director Matt Everett, continued: “As part of the redevelopment of Poltair, we are considering and consulting some important changes; the school’s colors will change to reflect the history and pride of St Austell and adopt the town’s classic red.

“Staff consultation has already started on the basis of working groups with students and staff. These generated many new ideas for new school names, logos and possibly a new uniform. “

The letter stresses that any uniform change would be a “step-by-step process” and that the first students to wear it would be the new recruit in 2022. It said any uniform change would take into account the financial implications for families and that ‘they would try and keep the costs to a minimum.

Mr. Everett said, “This school has a great history, fantastic potential, and phenomenal students who deserve a strong sense of identity and pride, which I believe a distinctive uniform provides.”

The online survey gives people four options for what the name of the school should be – indicating that it could be changed by September of this year.

The four options are:

• Poltair School
• Poltair Academy
• St Austell School
• St Austell Academy.

Respondents are also invited to provide additional comments on the proposed changes. The closing date for the survey is May 9.

The proposed changes sparked discussions on the school’s Facebook page with parents, alumni and members of the public who all commented.

Alana White wrote: “I think you should keep the same name and uniform, Poltair is known for its green color, I always knew it was Poltair and green. Why change a good thing? “

Rob Perry said: ‘Really you have some extra funds to potentially spend on a name change, whether it costs £ 500 or £ 20,000 (more likely closer to the latter) that money could surely be spent elsewhere and better. used.

“Will a name change make some uniform items obsolete meaning they are thrown away rather than passed on to other children, how much stationery, how many books, etc.” will need to be replaced (wasted)? Not very concerned about the environment. “

Ross Ratty said, “Why would you change a name? Bad luck on a boat. It is a slight insult to all who have participated in the past decades. “

And Sheila Vanloo asked, “What reasonable reason is there for changing the name? The history of the school, teachers and students past and present is linked to the name of Poltair. What purpose?”

The school responded to many comments and encouraged people to read the letter sent and take the survey. They also pointed out that maintaining the Poltair name was included in the options.

To complete the survey, click here