When news of Mary’s appointment reached the Modern Languages Department, we initially thought:”scientist, oh well”. Then we weighed up the evidence – very scientific :named Ireland, comes from Scotland, lives in England. Maybe languages could benefit after all. So we celebrated in the customary fashion – with cake. To be frank, though, this initial optimism was briefly called into question when I was first introduced to Mary as Head of Department. Her candid opening remarks referred to her previous managerial experience of said departments as ” usually quite troublesome”. Oh dear, better buckle up. To her credit and my relief, she added that first impressions would suggest that we might be the exception to the rule. After that, there was no looking back; well, maybe the odd glance, but that first meeting set the tone for a productive relationship which lasted until we both retired in the same year. Mary was always ready to listen to advice and take it on board before making her decisions. She was very generous with time and resources for languages, especially in the early formative years, where she introduced innovative diversity and choice which greatly benefited pupils.

Being a Head Teacher at Bancroft’s is challenging enough without being subjected to “The Comfy Chair” of satire at the Staff Christmas Party, where Senior Staff and Bursars are particularly fair game. Forgive us, Mary, you bore it stoically. Be comforted by the fact that it was done out of love!

Mary clearly cared deeply about every aspect of school and she made a difference in every phase of her life. Those who were privileged to know her are the poorer for her passing, but the fruits of her devotion will live on.