School's farewell to long-serving Phil

Phil Higgins is a Learning Leader (English) and Head of Media, but started out in 1974 aged just 21 planning to stay just two years.

Not only has he spent his entire teaching career at the school, it was here in 1978 he first met a new probationary teacher known simply to the students as Miss Ruis.

Their “eyes met across a crowded staff room” and two years later they married. All four of their children attended the school establishing a family link that remains today.

“I was never intending to be here long-term but in the end two years became 36. Bexhill’s students are a delight to work with; there was always a good reason to stay - to see the next group of pupils through their exams,” he said.

Phil’s teaching was rated “excellent” by OFSTED, but he has also been motivated by extra-curricular activities, most notably his leadership with the yearly week-long Bexhill FM, which is presented from the school. Film-making was another successful venture as memorably demonstrated at the DLWP in 100 Kids/100 Questions where seven short films were presented to great effect.

He co-wrote and directed two school musicals: The Band Played On and A Family Affair with Dave Cowley and Nicky Holt, and helped in many other productions as well as participating in staff pantomimes.

He was also a much-loved Head of Bodiam House and for many years ran the school library.

Principal Mike Conn said: “Bexhill High is very saddened to lose Phil but at the same time wishes him all the very best in his retirement.

“At every stage of his career Phil has been in touch with the children, and his major strength is the positive relationships he has created with his students.”

Phil has many plans for his retirement: including sketching and painting, writing, travelling, or as he commented: “Doing things I haven’t had time to do since 1974.”

LEFT: Phil Higgins