TRIBUTE TO JUDY RIDGWAY
(August, 2001, for the
'The Chronicle' magazine)
Commencing
in 1975, Judith Ridgway served the Wesley community with high distinction.
Initially
appointed as a part-time remedial teacher, Judy became one of the carefully
selected teachers who prepared, and then taught in, Glen Waverley’s exciting
new 1978 coeducational Preparatory School.
When the staged introduction of coeducation moved into upper primary and
lower secondary levels, it was Judy, again, who was chosen to usher in the
changes as a Year 5 and, later, Year 7 Homeroom Teacher.
A
place in her class was prized and her colleagues’ esteem was unbounded. Students, parents and teachers universally acclaimed her
care, pedagogy, judgment and strength of character – all this compounded by
its constancy for twenty-six years. In
recent times, Judy brought these qualities to her position of Junior School
Deputy Head.
A
Wesley generation has drawn on Judith Ridgway’s calibre.
All within it were enriched by her presence and are grateful. |