Thomas Fowell Buxton Society Talk To History Students
History pupils at Wey Valley Academy were engaged in a talk delivered by the Thomas Fowell Buxton Society. The group was formed to celebrate the achievements of Buxton , 1st Baronet (1786-1845) who, while MP for Weymouth and Melcombe Regis between 1818 and 1837, led the campaign to abolish slavery as an economic system.
Buxton was a Christian social reformer, who had an interest in education of the poor and prison reform. He was a great believer in self-help , hard work and dedication to achieve life goals. Joyce Fannon who delivered the talk said, 'I feel that it is important that the students understand their local heritage and the context around the abolition of slavery'.
One Year 8 pupil said, 'I found the session enlightening, and this has made me consider diversity and equality issues in our society today'. Head of Performing Arts, Mark Damon Chutter, said ' my thanks to Joyce Fannon for delivering this captivating and important talk around the local reformer Buxton'.