Firstly, may I offer my condolences to Pat’s family. Perhaps Tim and Margot may remember me. I began my teaching with Pat at St Marks way back in 1974 and a better start I could not have asked for. She was wonderfully supportive, readily telling me what I was doing well and what I needed to improve. “Just watch me and you’ll see.” She certainly had a presence in the classroom and the playground. I marvelled at how she could silence all the children with one sound from her voice. She convinced me that one day I could do that and she was right!

I remember being welcomed into her home for omelettes. I taught with Pat for three years before leaving to teach in Africa. I have never forgotten the grounding she gave me. I am still teaching and have had many young teachers under my care. My model has been Pat – the best.