It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of Mags Wood, who died on Tuesday 20th June, aged 92. Mags taught for 25 years at the School between 1963 and 1987, as Head of PE.

Her valete, which appears in the 1987 Girls School Chronicle commented that ‘ We have valued her sense of humour and been enriched by her common sense and the high standards which she exhibited herself and encouraged in others. Her natural courtesy and her knack of recognising the right moment for a word, or a note of thanks, praise, congratulation, or sympathy are qualities which many have experienced with gratitude.

Many Old Girls at the time paid tribute to Miss Wood on her retirement:

'She showed such interest in us all'

…'encouraged us to enjoy games'

…'always knew the right thing to say and do'

…'cheered us up even when it was cold and wet'

…'gave confidence' ...'always fair and ready to listen'

…'a very supportive colleague' ... 'a good form mistress'

…'understood when you found things difficult'

…'a careful organiser'...'she cared'
…and most frequently, 'a very kind teacher'.

Since her retirement Mags remained a familiar figure locally as she continued to live in Berkhamsted and could be seen walking into town every day in spite of her increasing mobility issues, always with time for a chat. She celebrated her 90th birthday in April 2021 in her garden (Covid rules) visited by a stream of friends, former staff and pupils in glorious sunshine. Health issues robbed her of her independence and she spent the last 18 months in a care home where she died peacefully.

We send our condolences to her family and friends at this difficult time.

FUNERAL DETAILS:

The funeral will be held on Monday 10th July at 10.30am in St.Peter's Church, Church Lane, Berkhamsted. (HP4 2AX)

The wake will take place directly after the service in The Old Dining Room at Berkhamsted Girls School, Kings Road, Berkhamsted (HP4 3BG).

If you would like to attend, please email Miles Wood at selimwood@gmail.com