Geoffrey Pawling. 1948-2024. BGS 1974-1977.

We were recently notified of the passing of former English teacher Geoff Pawling by his contempory, Richard Hofton (BGS History Department, 1972-1985. Richard writes 

An outstanding scholar and the nicest of men, he joined the English Department in 1974.  1977’s Chronicle bears witness to his impact. Born in 1948, died 2024. One incidental detail: his grandmother was a survivor of the sinking of the Lusitania. We really were lucky to have him.

Read more about Geoff's grandmother and his involvement with the Lusitania survivors here.

Notice from 'Roundabout' magazine serving Buckden, Diddington and Stirtloe link

'Sadly, in the last couple of years we have lost a few members, notably Geoff Pawling - well known in the area as a wonderful teacher, a refined and generous spirit, and a talented artist. A true polymath,'

From The Chronicle

'We said farewell in July to Mr. Geoffrey Pawling.M.A., after three years'excellent teaching in the English Department and in General Studies of which he was the Head. His scholar­ship and sympathetic approach to colleagues and students were much appreciated. He went to further research and teaching at the University of East Anglia.'

'We take our leave of Mr. Pawling, who is moving on to fresh fields and we thank him for the support he has given to the life of the House. We also, as usual at the end of a Summer term, say good-bye to some 25 boys in the House. We thank them sincerely for all that they have been to and done for the House and wish them all well for the future.' J. A. F. Burns