The Old Godhelmians Association (OGA)

Malcolm Rollisson

5 th May 2009

 Head of English

R I P

 Malcolm Rollisson

When training to become a teacher a few years ago, I was asked to write an essay on my “inspirational teacher”.  It was Malcolm I chose – and I know I must have been one of many who felt that way.  Among my year group people have been telling me that “he was the only teacher who ever taught me anything”, or that “his lessons were fun”.  When my year group held a reunion a few years ago, ‘Malc’ was our guest of honour.

He was born in Chester in 1943, educated at Hawarden Grammar School there and studied English at Leeds university.  He came to teach English at Godalming Grammar School in 1966 and tore himself away 38 years later, having been Head of English and later a Head of Faculty.  

In that time he not only inspired thousands of students with an abiding love of literature, he also introduced many to his passions – opera, friendship, the good things in life.  It is a privilege to have known him.

Ruth Nixon (Longford)