Leyland school plants lasting tribute to former headteacher
Staff and pupils at Leyland's Balshaw's CE High School have held a memorial service for former headteacher, Paul Ingram, who died last year.
The service was led by David Ward, rector of Brindle St James' CE Church, who dedicated a young oak tree planted in the school grounds, and a plaque was unveiled as a lasting tribute to the popular teacher who devoted his life to education.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdAmong speakers was Bob Hardwick, who was deputy head at Balshaw's, before later becoming a headteacher adviser.
He described Mr Ingram as "the embodiment" of the school motto 'Non Sibi Sed Aliis' (not for ourselves but others) and told the service how much the late head had supported him during his time at Balshaw’s.
Also at the service was Mr Ingram's widow Joan, former Balshaw’s RE teacher Margaret Hardwick, former headteacher Jo Venn, chairman of governors, Keith Woodcock and former chairman of governors Tim Callaghan as well as current head Steven Haycocks.
Paul Ingram was headteacher at Balshaw’s from 1973 to 1994 and led the Church Road school through its transition from a well respected grammar school with a sixth form to a new role as an 11 - 16 comprehensive following re-organisation.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdHe had succeeded Fred Bleasdale who left Balshaw’s to become the founding principal of Runshaw College.
Mr Ingram never left touch with the school that he worked so hard for over 21 years . He continued to contribute to the lives of young people in his role as a member of the Rotary Club of Great Britain.
After he retired, the man described by staff nad pupisl as charasmatic, supported events and continued to visit both Jo Venn who succeeded him and Steven Haycocks, the current headteacher, always taking an interest in the students and the life of the school.
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.