Old Boy taking the reins at new school

For ‘Old Boy’ Geoff Laidler, returning to Dame Allan’s Schools as head of the Junior School was an irresistible opportunity. 

A student at the Boys’ School from 1985 to 1992, Geoff went on the study music at Durham University, but it was through volunteering during the summer with his sister, who was a primary school teacher, that Geoff found his true calling. 

Following a PGCE at Northumbria University, Geoff worked at various North East primary schools before taking up a post as head-teacher at St John Boste, Washington.  He stayed there for six years before moving to St Agnes’ in Crawcrook for another six years. Geoff admits he was happy in his recent post, but when the vacancy arose at Dame Allan’s Junior School, the pull of his childhood school was too strong. 

“When the opportunity arose to return to Dame Allan’s in a professional capacity, I just couldn’t resist. Both my wife and I are Allanians – I actually knew her brother growing up and he’s now a parent at the school – and I have a great fondness for my time here as a student.

“Dame Allan’s Schools offer a great mix of challenging academia with effective pastoral care. The genuinely broad and balanced curriculum and the extensive extra-curricular programme give the children so many opportunities; they experience all aspects of school life and are supported to develop into well-rounded individuals. 

“I am lucky to be taking over from my predecessor Andrew Edge. Under his 17 year leadership, the Junior School and Nursery has gone from strength-to-strength; my plan is to continue his good work.  

“Now is a really great time to embrace the progress of the digital age and build on the fantastic foundations he left behind.”