Pupils and their families, teachers and Old Bradfordians are mourning the loss of a gifted and kind teacher who inspired many young artists at Bradford Grammar School. Will Norman, 1979-2021, died on Wednesday 24 February following a battle with illness. Will taught art at BGS since 2013 and briefly took a sabbatical from teaching to complete a master’s degree focusing on his loves of painting and photography.
Colleagues speak of Will’s skill as a teacher and practising artist, his great humanity and personal warmth. Sarah Horsfield, Head of Art said: “Will had a presence that would calm everyone and open up a room for interesting, knowledgeable conversation. Will brought something special to every aspect of his teaching, and his softly spoken nature encouraged all that he met to be comfortable, confident and to flourish. I will always hold dear his unfailing loyalty and quietly cheeky, affectionate nature. It is true to say when things got tough, Will would brighten things up with his wit and ability to put everything into perspective. Often we would find cartoons drawn on meeting notes and the whole Art Department would have to concentrate hard not to laugh out loud”.
Ross McOwen, Teacher of Music and Head of Year 12 remembers Will as “a superb, inspirational teacher of art and Sixth Form tutor who was genuinely interested in the wellbeing and development of his tutees. Eternally modest, he was a gifted and original artist in his own right. Painting extensively, often in his studio at home, he exhibited his work internationally. Will loved his wife and two children, his friends, and he possessed a natural ability to put others instantly at ease. He would always see the best in people, recognise the good they do, and he would be the first to celebrate and take genuine enjoyment from the happiness and success of others, students and colleagues alike. Indeed, Will was the kindest and most gentle man you could ever meet. He would always ask first for news about one’s family and recent pursuits; it really mattered to him. A trip to the pub with Will, his wicked sense of humour in-tow, was always a delight and an experience to be treasured. The BGS family will miss Will dearly; he was a wonderful gift to us all.”
Will spent nine years teaching at BGS, kindling a passion for art in others, running the much-loved Photography Club, guiding skiers down European slopes and taking groups on art trips and excursions. His students, friends and colleagues, benefitted from his wisdom, generosity of spirit and compassion.
An online Book of Condolence can be viewed here.
“My most sincere condolences are extended to the family and friends of Will Norman. It has been a privilege to work alongside and enjoy the good company of Will these past years at BGS. He will be remembered fondly as a gifted and caring teacher, a kind and modest person, a loyal friend with a great sense of humour and proportion, and as a family man. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. Rest in Peace, Will.”
