Raymond Pallister (1981–2024)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Mr. Ray Pallister, a dedicated educator, lifelong learner, and passionate advocate for education. Ray’s unwavering commitment to personal development and his belief in the transformative power of education, touched the lives of countless pupils and colleagues. He expressed it with these words, “I have a strong belief in education for personal development and a commitment to life-long learning has motivated continual hard work and self-improvement.”

Ray was born in 1981 in Western Australia and as a young man he recognised his vocation to teaching when he made the decision to study for a Bachelor of Education (Primary Education) at Edith Cowan University. There he honed his skills and passion for teaching and graduated in 2003. During his time at University, his talents were duly recognised. He was a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society for Academic Achievement, and he also received a letter of commendation for outstanding achievement upon gaining a Bachelor of Education. In 2004 he earned his Qualified Teacher Status from the General Teaching Council for England.

During his twelve years at St Faith’s, Ray spent the majority of that time teaching Year One classes, but more latterly, he also taught in Year 2. He was always willing to take on extra responsibilities and he fulfilled the role of KS1 Mathematics & English Co-ordinator and later Deputy Head of Pre Prep, with diligence and thoroughness. In several of his previous teaching roles he had also supported ICT provision and staff training within schools, and during his time at The Mulberry Primary School in London, he was responsible for building and maintaining the school’s website and Virtual Learning Environment; an undertaking which was very well suited to his skills set.

As well as an educator, Ray was also a man of diverse interests and hobbies. His love for ice hockey, music, theatre, computers, camping, canoeing, aeronautics, cycling, adventure travel, golf, classic motor vehicle restoration, and gardening, enriched his life and inspired those around him. He proudly wore the 77 shirt for the Cambridge Narwhals Ice Hockey team and it was a sport in which he had excelled from a very young age. Ray was the Australian senior, twice Australian junior and seven-time Western Australian state inline hockey representative, as well as the Western Australian state senior ice hockey representative. He also held qualifications as a Level 1 Roller Inline Hockey Coach, a Level 2 Inline Hockey Referee, a Level 1 Sports Trainer and an Open Water Scuba Diver.

Returning to teaching, Ray’s teaching philosophy centred on individualised learning, and fostering positive relationships with his pupils and his colleagues. He believed that education should be both relaxed and enjoyable, and he consistently worked to create an inclusive and supportive environment for his pupils.

Ray Pallister left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of young learners. Ray was a highly dedicated educator who was focused upon achieving the best educational outcomes for all of his pupils. Ray’s commitment to excellence, preparation, and building meaningful connections will continue to inspire all of those people who knew him. Our sincere condolences are extended to Ray’s family and friends. May he rest in peace.