I had the privilege of getting to know Joan when I was training to be a teacher at Nettleham Juniors. At that time, Joan had retired from being a full-time teacher some years before, but she was still an active and important member of the school community. Joan was always incredibly supportive and encouraging of me when I was first finding my way around the classroom and I really believe that her presence was key to me being able to finish the year and become a qualified teacher. Joan had so much experience in education and I was able to learn so much from her; I remember one time she told me, “Teachers are so excited for pupils to be using mini-whiteboards in lessons, but I remember 50 years ago we had the exact same thing with mini-blackboards and chalk. I have been in education so long that I am seeing the same ideas for the second time!”
I am now in my eighth year of teaching; initially, I taught locally, but I have since moved to Mexico City, where I am teaching in an international school. I can honestly say that I have used teaching tips and tricks of the trade that Joan taught for every year of my teaching career! That's the amazing thing about wonderful teachers like Joan; the lessons that she taught continue to impact lives long after she originally taught them. I am certain that there are thousands of colleagues, pupils and parents who have similar memories of Joan and are grateful for the positive impact she had on their lives. I am deeply saddened to hear of Joan’s passing, but I know that these wonderful memories and lessons she taught me will not be forgotten any time soon.
Tom Leach:
04/05/2021
