So long Mr Patterson!

Today we say goodbye to Mr Nick Patterson who is retiring after 40 Years(!) at TBSHS.

Four headteachers, 40 Years of service, thousands of boys-now men aged 18-56 – have passed through his care. 

We have been blessed that Mr. Patterson has devoted his whole career, and working life, to generations of students, staff, and families at The Bishop’s Stortford High School.

There are no words to truly describe Mr. Patterson’s irreplaceable, outstanding, paradigmatic, and unique contribution and legacy.  Whether it be: as Head of English and English teacher; in his passion, scholarship and wisdom;  pastorally leading Year, and Form, groups; in the extra-curricular activities of Debating (for thirty-five years), Sport, and Educational Visits; and in looking after all students and staff, Mr. Patterson humbly, judiciously, selflessly, and thoughtfully set the standard for everyone day after day, term after term, year after year, season after season, decade after decade. In the words of the song of his beloved Leeds United Football Club,  he ensured we kept “marching on together”.

In his recent interview for TBSHS  illuminating  “The Globe” newspaper, Mr. Patterson beautifully articulated the importance of appreciation and aspiration.  Mr. Patterson perfectly epitomised, and epitomises, the values of The Bishop’s Stortford High School: commitment;  aspiration; respect; integrity;  community.   And our Equality Values, which are just as important, too.

The Bishop’s Stortford High School is, and will always be, The Bishop’s Stortford High School because of Mr. Patterson.

Thank you for all you have done.

Wishing you a very, very long and happy retirement Sir!

TBSHS 1986-2026