Alumni and colleagues have been sharing memories of former RE teacher and head of sixth form Pauline Needham, who passed away in August.
Pauline, who is in white in the middle of the photo above, started working at LHS in 1984 and stayed at the school until her retirement in 2008. A period of ill health sadly led to a diagnosis of cancer earlier this year.In the eulogy at her funeral in Quorn, her daughters Sheila (LHS 1990) and Nicky paid tribute to their mum’s faith and love of family, football and friends.
Her former pupils shared memories online of a fantastic teacher, who inspired others to go into the profession themselves. They paid tribute to a teacher who was determined, patient, thoughtful and a little bit mischievous. Mrs Needham was also remembered for supporting students through challenging times.
Rachael Dixon (LHS 1997) said: “She was one of the best – she had such a natural way of teaching and drawing out discussions from her students.”
Pauline’s daughter, Nicky, said: “Growing up, it was quite amusing when the phone rang as Sheila and I knew instantly if it was a member of staff from LHS as she lost the Mancunian accent we knew so well. And if Miss Harvatt rang, well, we all stood to attention!”
Pauline was an avid Leicester City supporter and enjoyed playing golf and card games.
Alum, Sophie Noctor (nee Holt, LHS 1998), said: “My main memory Mrs Needham is of her being the dame in the staff pantomime, a role she suited well with stance and humour. We were all in stitches. She was a kind and funny lady.”
Former colleague Pippa Kent, who taught Classics, said: “Pauline was a well-respected member of staff and a very easy colleague to work with, always sympathetic,understanding, even-tempered, supportive and encouraging. She loved singing and always participated with enthusiasm in the annual staff pantomime.”
Retired maths teacher Linda Lofthouse added: “After retirement, Pauline continued to be a much-loved friend to many of her colleagues. She had a very positive and enthusiastic approach to everything she did, whether it was singing, quizzes, football, theatre trips or meals out.”
Pauline was born in Manchester in 1947, grew up in Lancashire and trained to be a teacher at St Martin’s in Lancaster.
After being told to find something to keep her mind active during treatment for breast cancer at the age of 32, she studied for a degree in Theology and became an RE teacher in Hinckley before moving to Loughborough.
During her time at LHS, she held several roles, including Head of Exams, Head of Careers and Head of Sixth Form.
As well as her daughters, she leaves behind husband, Ron, and sister, Pam
