How many years have you been working for Hymers now? 

Now in my 33rd year (34 years teaching in total = 100 terms)

How many students have you taught sport do you think over these years? 

Tough question for a PE teacher, but if 100 new year 7s start every year, about 3,000?

Tell us how things have changed since the first day you started? 

When I started, there were still boys only in Years 4 and 5.

There were 2 forms of girls in Year 1, 20 girls in Year 2 and 9 girls in Year 3.

The school was a much sterner place and girls have improved it immeasurably, if not only for the exam results.
Girls' sport has grown exponentially and over time, the girls have been more successful and qualified for far more National finals than the boys.

The fabric of the school has changed beyond recognition, with the swimming pool, theatre, junior school and music centre wonderful additions.  

You must have a few tour stories for us?

There are many stories involving many great people, but "what goes on tour, stays on tour"!

I have been lucky to work with people that I call my friends and as part on my Hymers' experience I have been lucky enough to travel the world with some wonderful people.

You are not allowed favourites but you must have a tour that stands out for you and why?

Australia 1996 was my stand out tour. We took 44 fine young men on a tour "down under" and had the trip of a lifetime.

This Year 13 group were my first cohort in school and it was a great way to round off a 7 year association in school

What is your favourite thing about the alumni network and why? 

I am always proud to hear about how people are getting on after school in all walks of life. 

It is great to see former students and to catch up and perhaps reminisce about shared experiences.

You must have some long-standing friendships with staff that are now your friends that our alumni will remember?

Billy Exley and I were best men for each other and godfathers to our children.

I obviously have particularly close friendships to people associated with sport, including Chris Fitzpatrick, my boss for about 20 years, and I travelled a lot with people like Dave and Sara Guy. These four and Julia Tapley formed the PE Department for close to 20 years.  In recent times I have received wonderful support as Director of Sport from Karen Wylde and Alice Powell.

I am cycling buddies with Syd Nicholls and Paul Meadway and there are of course others who unfortunately have now passed away.

There are many others, but they might get a mention when I write my book!