The Midlands education community is mourning the loss of Greg McCarthy, a pioneering historical educator who dedicated his career to bringing the past alive for primary school children. McCarthy passed away at the age of 47 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of innovative teaching that touched thousands of young lives.
Bringing History to Life Through Character
Through his company The Specialists, which he established in 2009, Greg delivered thousands of meticulously researched history sessions across the Midlands. He transformed himself into various historical figures, including Gregolf the Viking and Gregorius the Roman legionary, creating immersive learning experiences that captivated both students and teachers.
His approach earned consistent praise from educational professionals, with many teachers providing glowing reviews of his sessions. McCarthy's unique blend of theatrical talent and educational expertise made complex historical concepts accessible and engaging for young minds.
From Stage to Classroom: A Varied Career
Born in Oxford to Michael, a financial adviser, and Jean (née Poyser), a French teacher, Greg McCarthy demonstrated early theatrical promise. While growing up in Crowborough, East Sussex, he landed the title role in a semi-professional production of Oliver! at the Assembly Hall theatre in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, just before starting secondary education at Beacon college (now Beacon academy).
His early career included appearances as a child actor, notably in an episode of The Bill, before he graduated from the University of East Anglia in 1999 with a degree in film and English studies. Following graduation, McCarthy explored various creative paths including television post-production work, writing and touring a one-man version of Macbeth, and acting in theatre-in-education productions.
Building a Legacy in Education
After meeting his future wife Lisa Gregory at a house party and marrying in 2003, McCarthy settled in Leicestershire where the couple raised their two children, Frankie and Rowan. His commitment to education led him to obtain a primary school teacher qualification from Leicester University.
Following a brief classroom teaching stint, McCarthy found his perfect role as a museum educator with Leicestershire County Council, based at Donington le Heath manor house near Coalville. This position allowed him to merge his acting abilities, teacher training, and passion for history into a cohesive educational approach.
The experience proved invaluable when he and Lisa co-founded The Specialists in 2009, with the couple often delivering history sessions together as they built their educational business.
A Life of Passion and Creativity
Beyond his professional achievements, Greg McCarthy pursued diverse interests with characteristic enthusiasm. He was an avid Lego enthusiast who created and exhibited custom models at Lego conventions while maintaining a substantial personal collection. His passions extended to Marvel comics, jazz music, film-making and viewing, gardening, and caring for his cats.
Friends and family remember him as a straight-talking individual who lived authentically and filled his time with activities he genuinely loved. He possessed a remarkable sense of fun and silliness that endeared him to children and adults alike.
Above all, McCarthy was deeply devoted to his family and took immense pride in his children, who have inherited his determination and creative spirit. He is survived by his wife Lisa, their children Frankie and Rowan, his sister Esther, and his parents.
