It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the recent passing of Patsy Baldwin, Ex - English and Drama teacher and a stalwart of our teaching staff of Christchurch Girls’ High School/ Te Kura o Hine Waiora.

A most generous and kind hearted person, Patsy made an enormous contribution to Christchurch Girls’ High School/ Te Kura o Hine Waiora, teaching here from 1988 until 2000. She was universally loved and admired by those that she taught and worked with. After retiring, Patsy also wrote the Year 13 references for a number of years as well as choosing the book prizes for Prize-giving.

I had the privilege of working alongside Patsy on many projects including several school productions, for example The Mikado, Where’s Charley?, and Guys and Dolls as well as celebrations for 115 and 125 years. She was a whirlwind of enthusiasm and drive, exhaustingly energetic, always encouraging and larger than life, achieving high performance standards while also providing great enjoyment for all those who participated.

Patsy had a huge intellect and was a talented teacher of English. She was also a passionate advocate for Drama and was the first person to be given a management unit in that subject at our school. She will be remembered for her effervescence, wonderful laugh, her singing and lyric writing ability. Many of our long serving staff were farewelled by her thoughtful, imaginative words and ready wit and many productions concluded with staff performing for the students in a similar manner.

Patsy produced a valuable video on the history of the school in 1992, as part of the school “Pageant”, celebrating 115 years of Christchurch Girls’ High School/ Te Kura o Hine Waiora. This is a valuable document that chronicles the rich tapestry and the quirkiness of Christchurch Girls’ High School/ Te Kura o Hine Waiora. The many hours that Patsy spent directing and editing the video are a testament to her dedication to the school.

In 2002, as part of our extensive 125th celebrations, Patsy organised and directed two large concerts called “Celebration 125”, a music and dance extravaganza in the Christchurch Town Hall; a massive undertaking that she led with her usual polish, drive and enthusiasm.

Patsy gave so much to Christchurch Girls’ High School/ Te Kura o Hine Waiora. Our thoughts are with Pat and his family. Personally, I shall greatly Miss Patsy, a wonderful friend and colleague.

Michael Langdon