University-sponsored mural of Betty Campbell MBE officially unveiled

A giant mural of Wales’s first Black headteacher has been officially unveiled.

The ten-metre tall painting, which was funded by Cardiff University, stands proudly on the front of Mount Stuart Primary School where Mrs Campbell held the role of headteacher from 1965 until 1999.

The striking artwork celebrates the contributions made by Mrs Campbell to education in Wales and the wider world. As well as pioneering multi-cultural education and diversity, she also helped found Black History Month.

The project developed after children at the school learned about Mrs Campbell’s legacy and wanted something at the school site to remember her. With support from the governing body and funding from Cardiff University, artist Bradley Rmer, who painted the iconic ‘My City, My Shirt’, was commissioned to paint the mural.

The official unveiling welcomed members of Mrs Campbell’s family, alongside pupils and school staff, governors, representatives from Cardiff Council and the University.

Helen Borley, Headteacher at Mount Stuart Primary School said: “The mural of a smiling Mrs Campbell looks over the playground, watching the children of Butetown at play. I’d like to think Mrs Campbell would approve of that. It’s a daily reminder to us all of her legacy of hard work and determination to do the very best for this community."

Cardiff University Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Urfan Khaliq said: “Betty Campbell campaigned for social justice in her community and is an inspiration to us all. Her vision and passion for inclusivity and learning is timeless, universal and speaks to the power of education to transform lives. This mural, which has been created in the school where she worked so tirelessly, is an important reminder of her many great achievements - which are relevant to everyone - as well as her close bond and commitment to the people of Butetown.”

Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, Councillor Sarah Merry said: “Betty Campbell is an iconic figure who’s approach to education and diversity has had an outstanding impact on the people of Butetown, Cardiff and beyond.

“I know that many children from the school helped in the design process for the Betty Campbell statue in Cardiff’s Central Square and now they have they own reminder of Betty, taking pride of place at the school. This wonderful painting is a reminder to the whole community of their local heritage and the significant part Betty played in it.”