Jackie Wood, Head of Blackheath Bluecoat School Kitchen and Catering Services, passed away suddenly on 1st March 2013. She was a popular and much loved member of staff who will be sadly missed by the whole school community.
A Memorial Service, conducted by the Rev’d Liz Newman (School Chaplain) was held on Thursday 2nd May 2013 in the Sports Hall. All current school pupils and staff were present along with governors and representatives of Jackie’s family. The Headteacher, Mr Barnaby Ash, welcomed everyone and paid tribute to Jackie Wood’s dedication and loyalty to the school. He announced that the dining hall was being renamed “Jackie’s Diner” as a more permanent reminder of Jackie. Prayers of thanksgiving for Jackie’s life were offered and after the singing of ‘Amazing Grace’ by some year 11 girls the Head Boy, Neil Graham, read the lesson from 1 Corinthians 13.
An address was given by the Rev’d Mike Leader (Staff Chaplain and Governor and past Deputy Head) who had worked with Jackie Wood for over twenty years. During the address he read out some of the tributes written in a Book of Tributes which was presented to Jackie’s family by the Head Girl, Taiwo Ajose. Further tributes were then brought by each section of the school community. After prayers lead by pupils who are Faith Champions the service concluded with the Blessing and the hymn, ‘In Christ alone my hope is found’ led by the staff choir.
Following the service a new sign on the dining hall was unveiled by Ian Wood, Jackie’s brother and then the whole school enjoyed refreshments.