It was with shock and sadness that I learned of Simon’s death. He taught me for only one year, GCSE English in 1996-97. While the class’s first impression was of someone rather strict, this was matched with kind-heartedness, passion and intellect. He was genuinely encouraging and believed in my aptitude for the subject more than I did myself. I am so disappointed that I didn’t find the time to call into school to see him as I had planned to do in recent years. My condolences to Simon’s family, friends and colleagues. Edward Johnson (1999)