Steyning Grammar School have bid farewell to two long standing teachers who have clocked up over a century of teaching between them.
Mr Geoff Buckwell joined SGS in September 1970 as a Maths Teacher and last appointee in post from the Boys’ Grammar School. For over a tenth of the school’s 400 year history so many students at Steyning have had nothing but the highest respect for what is now the legendary outstanding teaching delivered by our former Head of Maths. His teaching so often characterized by a sense of humour and spontaneity that puts students at ease .He has made his classrooms a magical place for learners to be. A great master of his subject and his craft. Author of text books used widely across the country, his explanations have influenced numerous learners and practitioners. Adept at spotting, coaching and supporting potential Mathematicians to the highest levels.
A true Renaissance man, Geoff has used his wider skills to inspire students, parents and staff. Quick to volunteer to be part of school charity fundraising events, with his incredible electric guitar playing .His beautiful counter-tenor voice has been showcased in school choirs and productions. As a competitive sportsman, his prowess on the school football and cricket field were acclaimed. As a learning mentor of sixth formers he has shown empathy ,care and concern for anyone going through challenging times, he will fight their comer and leave no stone unturned in their time of need.
Geoff was nominated by colleagues and received the Pearson National Teaching Awards Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 for his exceptional and distinguished service to SGS and to education. His career was also recognised by the Mayor of Brighton who invited him and his wife for high tea.
Before joining SGS in September 1989 as Second in department of Modern Languages, Mrs Alana Davidson taught for many years at schools in London and Surrey. A Classicist by training and French Literature specialist, Alana’s passion for her craft is matched only by her commitment to welfare of both students and staff having overseen Staff Welfare as Assistant Headteacher for many years. Whatever the post she could be relied upon to bring her own brand of forensic interrogation, unwavering energy, high expectations and fearless intent. A former ISI Inspector for Boarding, Alana sat on the State Boarding Schools Association for many years promoting the cause of the next generation of female boarding practitioners. Alana was also instrumental in securing government funding for a new boarding house in 2011 and oversaw a major expansion of the boarding expansion. In 2017, her commitment to boarding on a national stage was recognised with the Boarding Schools Association Leo Winkley Award.
Never one to shirk responsibility or shy away from challenging issues she has always wanted the best for the school. Floods, fire ,snow, personal trauma, illness and a global pandemic have never stopped Alana from coming to work . Undoubtedly her glamorous persona, intelligent debate and strong advocacy for the staff and students of Steyning will long be remembered.
Co-Headteachers, Nat Nicol and Noel Kennedy said: “Both students and staff are finding it hard to imagine the school without Geoff and Alana. On Wednesday this week, we were able to pay tribute to them both at the staff leavers’ event where so many colleagues attended online to share memories and messages. They epitomise what it is to be a great Teacher and their exemplary service has been rightly recognised. We would like to thank them both for their dedication and commitment to the Steyning family over so many years and wish them both a long and fruitful retirement, and well-deserved rest.”
