New Rickstones Academy honours 'missed' teacher Simon Gibbs

Members of New Rickstones Academy, in Witham, came together to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Mr Gibbs at a ceremony last week.

Mr Gibbs tragically died in February during a trip to France.

Now, the newly named Simon Gibbs Building, which Mr Gibbs oversaw and opened in 2022, bears his initials and number in every classroom.

Tribute - Outside the Simon Gibbs Building, named in memory of the former headteacher (Image: New Rickstones Academy)

A special unveiling ceremony was attended by Mr Gibbs' widow Thea and his children who joined in the school-wide celebration.

They also unveiled a plaque which recognises his contribution to the Witham community.

Mrs Gibbs said: "It was such an honour to be included in this celebration of Simon.

"It is nice that today was all about celebration. That is really important.

"It is quite overwhelming to see his name on the building.

"It is lovely his name will continue. It means a bit of him will still be here."

Loved - Mr Gibbs' widow Thea and their children with the memorial plaque (Image: New Rickstones Academy)

Kath Bellchambers, who will become the new head of school at New Rickstones as of September, added: "Simon was a true leader who touched countless lives.

"He led the school with vision, compassion and an unwavering commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students.

"It seems right that after all the work he put into the project, the building will be named after him."

Simon Gibbs, former headteacher of Witham's New Rickstones Academy (Image: Public)

In memory of Mr Gibbs, students have adorned the area outside his former office with a hundred daffodil bulbs.

In a touching tribute, one student recalled Mr Gibbs’ mantra.

Olive, from Year 11, said: "Mr Gibbs told us over and over again to do the right thing when nobody is watching. We will forever miss him smiling at the gates saying good morning and goodbye."

The Simon Gibbs Building, featuring two science laboratories, two food technology rooms and a computer room, exists as a testament to Mr Gibbs' commitment to education and his lasting legacy at the Academy.