Headteacher of Ramsey Grammar School, Annette Baker has released the following statement.

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you of the death of Dr Mike Pendrill, a long-standing member of staff at Ramsey Grammar School.

Mike Pendrill joined Ramsey Grammar School as Second in English in 2002 from St Ninian’s High School and quickly established himself as well respected, admired and popular member of the English team.

He described himself as a “restless academic”, intent on furthering his knowledge of his beloved English literature at every opportunity. He was also a passionate follower of current media and was committed to growing his encyclopaedic knowledge of all things film and television.

As a lifelong learner, while continuing to teach, he went on to obtain, in 2012, his DPhil in English Literature (University of Sussex). He was the point of reference for many a sixth form student heading for university, as well as a caring and supportive form tutor.

Mike was an inspirational teacher of English and media studies primarily, though typically his talents extended still further to the teaching of history, sociology, RE, general studies and drama. He was also a passionate supporter of school productions, using his talents and experience as a filmmaker to ensure that memories were captured and shared.

He bore his illness with stoicism and fortitude, and worked for his students and the school up until the very end. He will be sadly missed by students, staff, parents, families and members of the northern community.

In addition to the excellent support provided as a matter of course by the staff of the school, specialist support is available in school for any students who need this to help them cope with this very sad news.