Words of respect were given in memory of St Ninian’s High School teacher who tragically died during a visit to the UK this year.

Head teacher Chris Coole described Tony Roberts as a ’highly respected’ head of business and governor at the Douglas school.

The school is looking at how it might create a lasting tribute in memory of Mr Roberts.

’He had a heart of gold and a tremendous sense of fun and camaraderie,’ Mr Coole said.

’The enthusiasm, positivity and drive for constant improvement he displayed towards his teaching and to school life in general were ever present and burnt as brightly on his last day in school as they did on his first.

’Over his 32 years at the school Mr Roberts influenced so many students and staff in such positive ways.

’His loss is felt keenly throughout the school.’

Mr Roberts, who suddenly died on September 30, was one of the longest serving members of the teaching staff having first been appointed in 1986 as a teacher of economics.

Genuine

He then went on to become a ’very successful subject leader of business education’, Mr Coole explained in his speech.

’He never stopped thinking about how he could improve things to enhance the experience of students,’ Mr Coole continued.

’And because he was so open, chatty and genuine with everyone he met, he had a long list of contacts from all areas of life who he could call on to come in to judge or mentor or support the students for various projects, presentations and exhibitions.

’The positive relationships he built with all of these people, and the enrichment they all brought to the learning of the students whether in economics, business or enterprise are further testament to the kind of man he was and his ability to connect with people.’

Mr Roberts had been one of the longest serving sixth form tutors and was also said to be passionate about his role as a governor at the school.

’Many of our young people have gained much from being under his tutelage over the years,’ the head teacher explained.

’They have learned to work to his high standards, enjoyed his humour and understood how much he cared for how well they do.

’We have received many tributes from former students which are testament to the high regard he is held in by so many people.’

Mr Coole described his former colleague as ’an integral part of our school’ saying that Mr Thomas was its ’most fiercely loyal advocate’.