Ted Read, a man of remarkable intelligence and passion who passed away at the age of 94, will be forever remembered as an inspirational classics teacher whose unconventional methods left a lasting impact on generations of students. His enthusiasm for life, sports, and education created a legacy of respect and admiration among those he taught.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Sports
Born in London to Harold, a messenger for the Daily Mirror, and his wife Ada, Ted attended St Olave’s Grammar School before studying classics at King’s College London. After completing two years of national service in the RAF, he married Jean Hopkins in 1957 and moved to Southend, where he began his long teaching career at Southend High School for Boys in the 1950s. He remained at the school until his retirement in the late 1990s, with Jean also teaching music there for many years.
An Unconventional Teaching Style
Ted was a natural educator who believed in treating his students with respect and humility, a stark contrast to the often brutal regime at the school during the late 1970s. His lessons extended beyond the classroom, incorporating life lessons and political discussions that encouraged debate and argument on any topic. Former pupils recall his informal and undiplomatic approach, which made his classroom a dynamic space for learning.
Anthony Haycroft, taught by Ted in the early 1970s, noted that politics frequently featured in his lessons, while Kevin May, a late 1970s pupil, emphasized how Ted fostered discussion. David Steed highlighted Ted’s unique ability to treat students with a level of respect that was rare at the time.
Legendary Sports Involvement
Ted’s passion for sports was unparalleled. He was mad about playing and watching football, rugby, cricket, basketball, tennis, squash, and golf, excelling in all of them. At Southend High, he ran the second XI cricket team, coached cross country, and was heavily involved in house sports. However, it was his approach to football games lessons that became legendary.
Paul Johnson, a former pupil, reported that during these lessons, Ted would delegate refereeing duties to a pupil so he could play as a goal-hanging forward himself. This playful and engaging method showcased his love for the game and his desire to be actively involved with his students.
Beyond the Classroom and Playing Field
Ted’s individuality meant he never rose to become a school administrator, but his unique ways made him a legendary figure. Haycroft mentioned that even after 50 years, he still shares "Ted" stories monthly. Outside of teaching, Ted played bridge at a high level, considering it an intellectual challenge on par with chess. He continued to play and enjoy bridge until the final weeks of his life, remaining an excellent player until the end.
In his personal life, Ted outlived both his first wife, Jean, who died in 1999 and was the mother of his three children, and his second wife, Linda Kendra, a deputy headteacher whom he met at a former pupil’s wedding and married in 2008. Linda passed away in 2022.
A Lasting Legacy
Ted Read is survived by his children, Michele, Tim, and the author of this obituary, along with six grandchildren—Sarah, Chris, Joshua, Jasper, George, and Freddie—and two great-grandchildren, Teddie and Ollie. His life serves as a testament to the power of passion, respect, and individuality in education, inspiring countless students through his love for classics, sports, and meaningful conversation.
