Bristol school named after Merchant Venturers to change its name - here's why
A school in Bristol named after the Society of Merchant Venturers is changing its name.
E-Act Merchants’ Academy has announced it will be adopting a new name at the start of the next academic year.
The school, which opened in 2008 after the former Withywood Comprehensive was taken over by the Merchant Venturers, said there are “several reasons” for the decision.
E-ACT Academy Trust took over the school in September 2024 from the now-defunct Venturers Trust, a multi-academy trust run by a partnership between the Merchant Venturers and the University of Bristol.
In a letter at the end of 2025, the school explained: “Following a recent meeting of the E-ACT Board of Trustees, a decision has been made to change the name of our academy.
“Choosing a new name is something we want to do with our community. The process will be open and transparent and will give all those who wish to contribute the opportunity to share their ideas. The final name will be agreed in preparation for September 2026.
“There are several reasons why we have chosen to begin this process. Since joining E-ACT in September 2024, Merchants' Academy has undergone significant transformation. This has led to rapidly improving outcomes for students, a stronger sense of belonging within our academy and the growth of positive and inclusive community events. These changes place us in a strong position to look confidently towards the future.
“We are proud of the communities we serve and want our academy's name to reflect the people, places and values that matter to us all.”
Merchants' Academy launched a competition for members of the community to submit potential new names for the school, with entries closing on Friday, January 2.
The school will now review the suggestions before moving into a more formal consultation stage with a shortlist of names.