Our Patron, Crest & Motto

Our Patron

Our school is named after Brian Clarke, an Oldhamer by birth, who retains strong contacts with Oldham and has family here.  He is now an internationally renowned artist who works primarily in stained glass.

We are proud and excited that Brian has agreed to be the Patron for our school.

Brian’s fascination with light has inspired us; and his generosity, as a benefactor for our school, will inspire generations to come – as has the generosity of Thomas Henshaw, the founder of The Blue Coat School.

Our building includes a stained glass window created by Brian to celebrate learning and the multi-cultural character of the school, shining light into learning and out into the community.

Our Crest

The crest for the school has also been designed by Brian Clarke.

The crest is the spinning mill, the iconic symbol of Oldham. We are here because of the mills, which brought together people from across the British Isles and the wider world, to find work and build a future for themselves and their families. The mill symbolizes industry, working hard, working together, and is suffused in light.

Our Motto

Luceat Lux Vestra
Let your light shine

(Matthew 5:16)

Our motto celebrates the light we all have within us, and the light we are all drawn to – the light which enables us to grow, thrive, understand and discern.

The Brian Clarke Church of England Academy is proud to be part of the Cranmer Education Trust

Cranmer Education Trust is a company limited by guarantee and an exempt charity registered in England. Company registration number: 07687709. Registered Office: Cranmer Education Trust, c/o The Blue Coat School, Egerton Street, Oldham OL1 3SQ. The website address is www.cranmereducationtrust.com and the phone number 0161 785 5082.