We were saddened to hear of the passing of much loved Physics teacher, Roger Wooldridge, OH Staff 1976-2011.  Mr Wooldridge was a part of the teaching staff at Hymers College for 35 years, and in that time, he also taught Maths and Electronics, trained student technical crews for drama productions, raised money for charity by having his legendary beard shaved off and was part of the school wind bands, playing the flute.

Mr Wooldridge, with his son Tim, OH 1985-95

Roger was a stalwart of the Physics department at Hymers, where he taught from 1976 - 2011. He is described by those who knew him as an incredibly bright, thoughtful and kind man who had an encyclopaedic knowledge of Physics and a remarkable memory. He was a big support to new Physics staff at Hymers.

He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Justin Stanley, Headmaster

Since the announcement of his passing, there have been many lovely tributes to him, revealing affectionate nicknames and anecdotes:

A really sad loss for so many. He was such a kind man and even in adulthood never missed anyone’s birthday on social media.

Very sorry to hear this. Never a dull moment in his classes! Fair Winds Sir.

He was a great teacher who helped inspire my love of electronics.

He was always a superb teacher, and a lovely guy. Affectionally known as "Paddington" to all and sundry. Legend has it when asked what the clock in P3 ran on, he replied 'marmalade sandwiches'.

Such sad news. Mr Wooldridge was not only a great teacher but such a kind man. I received so much support and positivity from him over the years.

“Wooly” Wooldridge was one of the very very best - such sad news.

Brilliant teacher, wonderful person. Likely had the worlds largest supply of purple pens and a sharp sense of humor to go with it. Also got me into Monty Python which successfully steered me away from accountancy as a career.

Lovely man. Fantastic physics teacher. Pioneer of electronics at Hymers. I’ll miss his booming voice (that used to scare the bejesus out of me when I wasn’t paying attention).

Roger was one of the best teachers I had during my time at Hymers. His patience, caring nature and commitment to each and every student not only got me through my physics classes, but truly inspired me to bigger things. I dare say I wouldn't be the person I am today without Roger's intervention and inspiration. And I'm quite certain the same goes for many others. Roger will be fondly remembered and very sorely missed.

Truly sad news. Feel honoured to have been taught by Mr W. I recently looked over my AS electronics project - it was written by a flipping genius, none of it makes sense to me now! The only reason would have been Mr W's patience and teaching to inspire that person. Thank you Mr W. He will be missed and long remembered. Deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

Below is the announcement of his retirement in the Hymerian 2011: