A message from the Head Master regarding the Change of Role for beloved long-time member of staff Paddy Stephen
I write to let you know that Paddy Stephen has decided to step down from his full-time role of teaching and coaching sport from the end of this academic year.
I am glad that Paddy will not be leaving St Peter’s and is taking on a new role supporting the work of the Alumni and Development Office. With the 1,400th anniversary in the offing, and fundraising forming an important part of our preparations, we will look forward to him being a key part of this essential work. This is an area where Paddy has great experience over many years, including Community Action, and he was the driving force behind the return of the whole school fundraising events last academic year.
Paddy’s unrivalled knowledge of St Peter’s and the Old Peterite community stretches back to his appointment as a Biology teacher in 1982. During the last forty-three years Paddy has held a number of posts including Resident Assistant in Dronfield House (1982-1987), Housemaster of The Grove (1987-1993), Housemaster of The Manor House (1993-2007). He was Housemaster of The Grove for a second time between 2007-2009 before becoming Non-Resident Assistant in Linton House from 2009 to 2019, remaining as Tutor to the present.
During his time at St Peter’s Paddy has been immersed in coaching sport, especially rugby, hockey, and cricket. He has taken multiple teams across all levels and age groups with success in fostering excellence and participation in equal measure. Paddy has always been a very visible member of the school and thrown himself into all aspects of school life, from major events such as Commem, the Carol Service and OP Day, to day-to-day activities.
Paddy’s flexibility and commitment to the school was seen in the pandemic (during which he turned 60) when he organised sporting activities for children of critical workers throughout lockdown and re-invented himself as a Teaching Assistant.
While this represents a significant change, we are very glad that Paddy is remaining at St Peter’s and, where possible, intends to provide support for sport and other school activities. I am sure you will join with me in thanking Paddy for all his outstanding service to date, looking forward to his new roles.
With best wishes,
Mr Walker
Head Master
