With 36 years’ service between them as Governors of St Joseph’s College, Richard Stace and Tony Newman opened something of a chasm as they stepped down to well-deserved retirement from the role. Fortunately for the school, able new candidates have stepped into the breach.
Chair of Governors, Mr Perry Glading, had plenty of material to refer to as he thanked Richard and Tony for their sterling service over the years.
Vice-chairman, Named Governor for Safeguarding and St Jo’s past parent, Richard supported St Joseph’s through three principalships. His professional expertise as an employment law specialist was invaluable to the school.
Mr Glading said, ‘Richard’s eye for and attention to detail and his ability to be that crucial critical friend have never diminished.’
Richard wrote, ‘I have enjoyed my involvement with the College over the past 21 years, both as a Governor and parent of two children who joined the College in Nursery, loved their time here, and left at the end of their Sixth Form.
‘We often refer to the unique ethos of the College – because it is true. Above all else, it is blessed by the dedication and commitment of its staff to ensuring the very best for its students. I thank them for all that they have done and continue to do.
‘I look forward to cheering on from the sidelines.’
Tony Newman, also a past parent, came to governorship via a different route – starting with 29 years of service as a teacher of Economics at St Joseph’s College. He ultimately became Deputy Head and was for a time joint Head with Clare Osborn. He became a governor in 2010, particularly championing the Arts, boarding and the Prep School. He also looked after the College alumni, the Old Birkfeldians.
Tony wrote, it has been ‘a privilege to be a part of something worthwhile that has grown and developed so effectively over many challenging years. The changes have been radical and fundamental but demonstrated time and again the College’s ability to adjust and adapt. Central to this success lies the College’s underlying ethos, which has remained a constant through those years.
‘Pupils, parents, staff and governors will recognise this, with its inclusive and extensive pastoral care, enabling each individual to grow and to flourish. As I progressed through St Joseph’s this has been a constant that underpins all that goes on in the College.
‘There are many other strengths: the sport undoubtedly, but also the wider curriculum that is offered. This has adapted to changing demands, particularly post-16, where there is a wider range of possibilities than in the past.
‘The recent Oxbridge and impressive apprenticeship successes, along with all the other achievements at GCSE, A-level and BTEC, reflect this but also reflect the quality and dedication of the teachers. The cultural side too has become an effective and vital dimension to both curricular and extra-curricular activities, providing opportunities that enrich and complement the pupil experience at St Jo’s.’
Mr Glading referred to Tony as a true reflection of what St Joseph’s has represented to so many over many years; his dedication and commitment to the College provided much value, particularly when it came to the Arts, of which he was a true champion. He had ensured they would remain a key focus for the Senior Leadership Team and the Board.
‘Tony’s long connection with the College reminded us all through the alumni of the school’s significance to so many students and their families.’
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