After 25 years of dedicated service to Malvern College, the time has come to bid farewell to one of its most beloved teachers, Dr Phil Stafford. Known for his passion for education, champion of mathematics, unwavering support of pupils, and invaluable contributions to college life, Dr Stafford leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Louise Ciaravella from the Malvernian Society caught up with him to reflect on his time at the College and his plans for the future.
A career devoted to education
With an impressive 38 years in education, Dr Stafford’s journey began at Queen’s University in Belfast, where he spent 11 years. Alongside some lecturing, he led small group tutorials, and it was here he discovered his real passion lay in engaging with students on a personal level. Following the tragic loss of a friend’s young son, he committed himself to try to make a real difference in young people’s lives through education.
When asked about his love for teaching, he shared: “What I enjoy most about teaching is the dialogue, the conversation, and the difference of opinion. Pupils come into class not knowing what they don’t know, and it’s our job to guide them. The greatest joy is seeing improvement – helping pupils realise that mathematics is not so difficult but simply another language to learn.”
Over his 25 years at the College, Dr Stafford has worn many hats: Maths teacher, College Webmaster, Work Experience Coordinator, RAF Section Commander, Tutor in No.3 and SH, Assistant Housemaster in No.7 under Peter Gray, and Director of Longy.
Among Dr Stafford’s many contributions to Malvern College, one of his proudest achievements is his work with the Longy. When he took over as Director in 2009, it was just three very basic rooms. Given full creative control, he transformed it into a vibrant social space for Sixth Form pupils. He was helped with excellent technical and audio visual improvements thanks to Heath Evans (3.80-84) who willingly gave his time and resources. “I wanted to create something fantastic for the pupils – somewhere they could enjoy themselves without needing to go into town. It has been so rewarding to see it flourish.”
Dr Stafford is quick to credit the many influential figures who have shaped his career. Among them, he names Paul Godsland, Hugh Carson, Professor Alan Hibbert, and the Very Reverend Stephen Forde (both from Queen’s). “These people encouraged and guided me; they were my role models who lead from the front. This has never been about me, it has always been about the people I have met, worked with, and taught.”
When reflecting on standout memories, he highlights a particularly spectacular moment in 2006 while running the RAF section of the Combined Cadet Force. To celebrate Hugh Carson’s retirement, he arranged for a Hercules aircraft from Brize Norton to execute a low-level drop of ten Flying Falcons – an elite parachute team – who descended through the clouds trailing red, white, and blue smoke. “It was quite spectacular. I’ll never forget the sight of them landing on the Senior and for Hugh to review the Team. it was certainly one of the best days of my life at Malvern.”
Beyond the classroom, Dr Stafford has always cherished the opportunity to reconnect with former pupils and following their journey to accomplished adults. For him, the real joy has always been seeing what pupils go on to. “It’s incredibly special to be invited to their weddings and to meet their children; to see what they’ve achieved. To have played even a small part in their journey is a wonderful feeling.”
The Future of Malvern and What’s Next
Dr Stafford remains optimistic about Malvern College’s future, hoping it will continue to adapt to modern times while preserving its traditions and values. “The College has so much going for it. We need to prepare pupils for the jobs of tomorrow while embracing technological change and I firmly believe Malvern will still be here in another 160 years.”
As for what’s next, travel is at the top of his list. “I’ll be meeting up with lots of Old Malvernians around the world – Hong Kong and America are definitely on the itinerary.” He will also continue his involvement with the Malvernian Society as an Ambassador, ensuring that alumni will still see him at reunions and events.
A Fond Farewell
When asked what he will miss most, Dr Stafford’s response was simple: “Too many things – but definitely Sarah Angus’s laugh!”
On behalf of the Malvernian Society and the entire Malvern College community, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dr Phil Stafford for his 25 years of inspiring service. We wish him all the best in his next chapter and look forward to seeing him at future events.
Phil Stafford’s previous school was closing its boarding department and his then head was a friend of mine. He rang me to say that Phil was a wonderful and very professional teacher who had been dedicated to working in a boarding school. He was only approaching us at that point because he thought that Malvern would suit him better than any other school that he could think off. How lucky we were. Phil was deeply conscientious, funny and loyal to the College.
He absolutely transformed life for our sixth form pupils through his commitment to the sixth form centres. The Cork family enabled us to move the club into the building adjacent to the Music School and Phil transfer it over the next few years. He was a brilliant teacher of the very able, less able and those to who Maths was a challenge. He deserves a long and happy retirement and I am sure Malvern’s College and his friendships will always be very dear to him.
Congratulations on your well-earned retirement Phil! I’m sure our paths will meet again during one of your mammoth walks around Malvern. Have fun and enjoy your travels!! Xx