SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY Farewell to Long-serving Staff Rob Ellmore (Science) Rob Ellmore joined TC in 2006, after spells working for the RAF and South Staffs Water. Passionate about renewable energy and energy security and supply, Rob is a fantastic chemist and his focus on practical work sparked his pupils’ curiosity. Many of his pupils went on to study degrees in chemistry having been inspired by his teaching. As a Tutor, he always maintained a calm and settled environment with his groups, and warmly welcomed new pupils to the School, ensuring their smooth integration. In recent years, he has reinvigorated the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, leading to increased uptake and completion rates. He spent many weekends training pupils and accompanying them on expeditions, and he was also a major asset to the games department, as his fitness and versatility were put to good use in number of sports including basketball, football, rugby, badminton and gym. He has a fun sense of humour and will be greatly missed. Steve Lawrence (Maths) Steve Lawrence started teaching at Tettenhall college in 2002 as Head of Maths. He is a very passionate teacher who has always put pupils first and has achieved excellent results from pupils of all abilities. His other roles in School, as form teacher, teacher of badminton, tutor, timetable planner have all been immensely valuable and carried out with commitment and care. TC has been a family affair for Steve – his son Oliver attended as a pupil and his wife, Jane, taught in Preparatory School. He has adopted this family approach in his relationships with others – he has looked after everyone in the staffroom and instigated the staff committee. He is trusted and respected by all members of staff, whether academic or support, and his kindness and wisdom are legendary. He will be missed by pupils and staff and we all wish him a happy retirement. Amanda Nash (Business and Economics) Amanda started at Tettenhall College on 10th November 2003, initially as a supply teacher. Not expecting to stay for long, almost 16 years later, Amanda has invested masses of time, energy and passion into the School. Both her daughters, Olivia and Ellie, attended as pupils and often return to support the variety of Old Tettenhallian and School events. Amanda is highly professional, dedicated and caring. She is a charismatic, witty and energetic teacher with a genuine love for her subject. In Head Girl Andreea’s speech at Prize Giving, she mentioned joking and teaching with Mrs Nash’s tenacity; clearly skills her pupils remember and value. Amanda has seen several changes during her time at TC from subject leader to head of faculty, back to subject leader. From supply to full time then part time. Retired to not retired. In fact, I believe she has actually tried to retire an impressive 3 times! However, what has always remained constant is Amanda’s passion, ambition and outstanding teaching. 63
64 Publizr Home