I had the privilege of being taught A-Level French by Mrs Rogers in 1996 to 1998. At that time, I'd bet heavily that I was by far her most apathetic, half-hearted and irreverent student. In spite of my brazen attitude, Mrs Rogers never lost her cool with me. She always forgave my indiscretions (normally, turning up with no homework or playing music during her lesson) and showed me the patience of a Saint!
A couple of years ago I found a draft essay I'd written on Candide by Voltaire as part of our French syllabus. Incredibly I'd managed to write five A4 pages in French. On top of my badly written prose were lines and lines of corrections added by Mrs Rogers' red pen. She had spent hours ensuring my work was at the best possible standard.
In the summer of 1998, I learnt that I'd attained a credible grade in A-Level French. Far better than I deserved. Without her passion, caring nature and determination to somehow put me on the right path, I'd have flunked big time. I will always be grateful that she never gave up on me over those two years.
I'd like to offer my sincere condolences to her family and friends and I will raise a glass to Mrs Rogers later!
James Webb (Lights House 98)
James
7th June 2019