More than two centuries ago, the late Lady Olivia Bernard Sparrow (1775–1863) transformed rural education in Huntingdonshire and elsewhere in the UK. Decades before state schooling existed, she founded and funded Brampton’s first village school, provided salaries for teachers, supplied books and materials, and even supported adult literacy and the training of women as teachers. Her initials — O.B.S. — can still be seen on buildings around the village, built for labourers and the poor, and quiet reminders of her belief that education and compassion should walk hand in hand.

We, the undersigned, believe it is time to honour Lady Olivia’s extraordinary legacy with a heritage plaque at the school — a permanent public marker of her contribution to education, equality, and community life in Brampton.

Our request

We call on Cambridgeshire County Council, Huntingdonshire District Council, Brampton Parish Council and local heritage bodies to:

• Formally approve and install a commemorative blue plaque at Brampton Village Primary School.
• Recognise Lady Olivia Bernard Sparrow as the founder and benefactor of the original Brampton school (c.1830s).
• Celebrate her legacy as part of Brampton’s continuing story of learning and public service.

How you can help

• Sign this petition to show your support.
• Share it with friends, families, and former pupils. 
• Add a personal note about what Brampton’s school or history means to you.

Together, we can make sure Lady Olivia’s work — her kindness, compassion, belief in providing education for ALL children,  and community — is remembered .

Please note: After signing, Change.org may ask you to “chip in” — this donation goes to Change.org, NOT to the O.B.S. Blue Plaque campaign. We are not requesting or receiving any funds through this platform, we are only asking for your online support