1st April, 2003

No, it's not an April Fool's joke!

Ian Tunnicliffe joined the South Shields Grammar Technical School for Boys on 1st April, 1967, and has chosen 1st April, 2003, to announce his intention to retire.

He started his teaching career at Ryhope Grammar Technical School in September, 1964 and, on 1st April 1967, he joined the staff of the SSGTSFB as a Maths teacher. With his keen interest in and knowledge of education, he rose the ladder and, in 1997, he became Headmaster of what was by then Harton School - a move which marked a significant upturn in the school's performance.

He was keen to promote ICT and Lifeling learning - but he also took an interest in politics. This led to his standing as Conservative candidate for Morpeth in the 1970 General Election, losing to Labour.

Scott Duffy, School Governor and Parliamentary Aide to David Miliband, School Standards Minister said:

Mr Tunnicliffe has been an outstanding Headteacher. Under his leadership, OFSTED recognised Harton as an Outstanding School.

Mr Tunnicliffe has served the residents of South Shields with distinction, and has helped many young people onto a successful career. As a former pupil and now school governor I will miss Mr Tunncliffe, though I am sure he will still call into school and visit us.

I have only known Mr Tunnicliffe personally over the past year, and only as a result of his support of this Web site, but he is a charismatic Head who has clearly gained the affection of his staff and pupils.