A MUCH-loved assistant head is to leave a Bradford school after 35 years next month.

Jane Chapman, of Heaton, will retire at the end of the summer term having started life at Bradford Grammar School (BGS) as a teacher of Latin and Greek in 1989. 

During her time at BGS, Jane enjoyed teaching Classics, working hard to keep Greek on the curriculum, and overseeing the introduction of Classical Civilisation at A Level.

After becoming Head of Department in 2006, Mrs Chapman then took on the role of Assistant Head (Pastoral) in 2013.

The school says she developed and grew the pastoral provision over the next 11 years, keeping pace with the demands of a changing landscape in education.

“When I arrived at BGS in 1989, it was a very different school,” Mrs Chapman said.

“I have felt a quiet satisfaction and sense of achievement as the pastoral provision at the school has taken shape.

"Getting PHSE properly established within BGS and getting a full-time school counsellor to work alongside our established pastoral team have been important steps.”

Reflecting on her time at BGS, she added: “The joy of teaching is playing a part in the development of young people and knowing you have made a difference.

"You can do that in the classroom, but also, and importantly, around the edges. There is nothing better than seeing students thrive and feel proud of themselves and happy with who they are. 

“I feel lucky to have had my career at a school like BGS.

"If you look around the school, you will see that the students carry their talents very lightly here. They’re modest and grounded, clever and funny, and they continually surprise you and make you proud to be a part of their journey.”

BGS Headmaster, Simon Hinchliffe, said: “Blessed with a fierce intellect, love of Classics and the arts, mischievous sense of humour and deep wells of empathy and compassion, Jane’s influence at BGS has been broad and transformative.

"She is held in the highest regard by generations of pupils, parents and colleagues, and drew a crowd recently in London at an Old Bradfordian social event to celebrate 40 years of co-education at BGS.

"The overwhelming sentiments expressed to Jane that evening were ones of gratitude, great respect and affection.

"We wish Jane good health and fulfilment in retirement and sincerely hope that she might make a guest appearance from time to time in the BGS choir. It has been a privilege to work with Jane.”