Edward (Ted) Baldry, June 2016, aged 84

As the new Head of Biology Ted created a department that has consistently been one of the most distinguished and successful departments in the school. Not only did he have a deep knowledge of Biology, but he had the ability to communicate with children from the reluctant 11 year old to the aspiring medical student in the Upper 6th. Many have gone on to distinguished careers in Medicine or related disciplines. Those who were taught by him comment on his kindness and generosity, his inimitable and inspirational style of teaching and above all his enthusiasm. 

His contribution to the life of the school went far beyond his teaching of biology however. The Boys’ School tennis team enjoyed much success under his leadership. Stories of his ski holidays would fill a book in themselves whilst his love of the hills was shown to many by his leadership of the Pedestrians’ Society. He was also a very accomplished photographer, another skill which he passed on with his trademark enthusiasm through the Photographic Society.

Ted was hit very hard by the sudden loss of his wife Shirley in 2014 who had taught for a time in the Girls’ School. Together they were a formidable source of care and support for many over the years. His knowledge of former students was phenomenal - he was a key figure in planning and organising the Science Dinner in 2007, which also marked his 50th year connected with Dame Allan's. He was the organiser of The Gallery, the retired staff lunch group, and kept contact with many colleagues stretching back across decades. He was also a man of extraordinary generosity, sometimes masked by a bluff exterior, a loyal friend and a man of conviction and integrity - he will be sorely missed.