HARRY LEAVES THE EQUATION

Harry Pettman, a teacher from Judgemeadow Community College, has been teaching and guiding pupils and colleagues for a staggering 36 years, this year he is retiring.

Throughout his career he has taught mathematics, though he was once timetabled to teach swimming, for a year – a bit of a challenge for a non-swimmer!


Harry Pettman enjoying his retirement

What makes a good teacher? Energy, love of your subject and commitment to your students, with a belief in their ability to improve, he told us - something he learnt from his parents who were 100% supportive, with his mother's favourite saying being “There is no such word as can't only won't”.

Some would wonder why he has endured years of mischievous children, late homework and piles of marking every night. “You get honest evaluation back from your students all the time a smile and a wave is great feed back” he says. “It is so good to find out how life has treated old students and what they and their families are doing now.”

“It is good to see so many young and energetic people coming into teaching, I am sure they will enjoy their choice as much as I have.”

As an ex student, I know that Harry solved more than algebraic problems. For many, he was a reliable source of guidance, support and advice.

The best of luck for the future Mr Pettman, and hopefully you've done enough to convince us all that “All maths is easy!” as you always say!