It was so lovely to catch up with a long time colleague Diane Hatherley yesterday. Di and I have known each other for more than 25 years.
I first met Di when she was the Headteacher of an OFSTED outstanding 'Beacon' infant school, while I was the local authority literacy consultant. A couple of years later Di became a Local Authority Advisor so we worked together more closely.
When I moved back into school and then into headship, our paths crossed again when Di joined the board of governors at my school. A couple of years later, she became my chair of governors. She is still serving that school as chair which is a remarkable service to the local community.
These days Di has reduced her working commitment to enjoy time with her ever-expanding family. However, we continue to both work together in our roles as chair of governors in neighbouring schools within the same trust.
It was so lovely to catch up, reminisce and put the world to rights. Di has always inspired me with her high expectations, excellent attention to detail and tireless commitment to school improvement. It's such a joy to keep in touch.
🤔 Have you got a colleague that you've known for a long time during your career? What difference has that relationship made to you and your communities?
Comments