We are very sorry to notify you of the passing of Andrea, who was Deputy Head of the Prep School from 1992 until 2009.

Andrea passed away on 23rd January.

We are conscious that some people who knew Andrea during her time at the School may not be in contact with us and we would be very grateful if you could pass on this information to those that you know. 

As is usual practice, we would like to place an obituary for Andrea in the 2025-26 OI Journal. If you know of any stories or memories which you can pass on to us so we can put them together for the publication we would be most grateful. Please address any contributions to me through oldipswichians@ipswich.school

Sally Webber
OI Chair

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Andrea joined the Prep in 1992 as Head of English and soon made her mark as an energetic and enthusiastic teacher who made sure that her pupils achieved the high standards she expected of them.  I was always confident that Prep A boys (Year 6) were well prepared by Andrea for the English exam element of the Main School’s entrance test.  I was not surprised to learn after I moved on to my next appointment in 1994, that Andrea had been appointed Deputy following the retirement of Mrs Veronica Wilson, who was Deputy in my time. 

Nicholas Allen
Headmaster Ipswich Preparatory School 1987 - 1994

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Andrea was for me the most supportive, encouraging and instrumental factor as a colleague in my teaching career and equally a close, precious friend to myself and family over the years.
Andrea had a unique insight into people and she knew exactly how to react and encourage at every turn.
I can honestly say that there will never be another Andrea .... words she gave me years back have encouraged and made me smile... Rest in peace, Andrea.... we will not forget you... x

Diane Smith (Teacher 1996 to 2018)

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How could such a livewire with such a stellar personality no longer be with us? Andrea was very supportive to me when I arrived at the Prep as a subject teacher, always checking in on how things were going, answering questions and helping me to find my feet and gain confidence in my new role. She supported not just the professional practice, but the people, too. She was lively, upbeat and full of ideas. Some of her demands were new to me, such as painting scenery for her legendary productions. A mural! A club! Making ginger beer in DT! I have memories of crouching over big rolls of paper on the floor of the Art Room, at that time an attic in what is now the Sixth Form Centre, attempting to paint Toad Hall during my first February half term. Andrea was a keen reader of character, ever ready to bring out the best in the children in her care.  She was always ready to charge any event with energy and fun. She will, I’m sure, be fondly remembered and sorely missed by many.

Amanda Warren (Teacher 2000 - 2018)