17/07/2026
As another school year draws to a close, we're taking the opportunity to celebrate and thank the colleagues across Wessex Trust who are retiring or moving on to new adventures after years of dedicated service.
This summer, we say a particularly heartfelt farewell to Jerome Deremaux, who retires from The Purbeck School after 34 years, and Bev Deremaux, who retires from The Thomas Hardye School after 25 years. Together, they have dedicated almost 60 years to supporting generations of young people, colleagues and families across our Trust.
Jerome joined The Purbeck School in 1991 as a History teacher and has spent the last 34 years inspiring generations of students, leading tutor groups and helping shape the life of the school. His passion for education, commitment to young people and genuine care for colleagues have left a lasting impact on the Purbeck community.
Bev joined Thomas Hardye School in 2001 as Sixth Form Administrator and has been at the heart of the Sixth Form ever since. Her warmth, professionalism and support for students, families and colleagues have made her a vital member of the school community, helping countless young people through one of the most important stages of their education.
Reflecting on his career, Jerome said: "Purbeck – its staff and students – will always have a special place in my heart. I wish the school nothing but the very best."
Bev added: "So many people have made working at Thomas Hardye School such a pleasure. I'll miss them all tremendously."
We'd also like to recognise colleagues across the Trust who are leaving us this summer, including Sarah Penney (Head's PA), Will Tarbard (Head of PE Faculty), Louise Robinson (Head of Biology), Barbara Armstrong (Head of Psychology), Mike Benzon (Maths Teacher) and Max Marriott-Smith (Learning Mentor) from The Purbeck School; Sue Brazier (Speech and Language Therapist and SEND Transition Lead) from Thomas Hardye School; Oliver Dickinson (Teacher), Sophie Adams (Teacher), Ruth Miller (Teacher), Charlotte Prowse (Teaching Assistant), Elizabeth Fox (Teaching Assistant), Chloe Carter-Miles (Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO), Mick Parsons (Site Team Assistant) and Janet Collins (Science Technician) from St. Osmund's School; and Lorraine (School Office Administrator) and Poppy (Teaching Assistant) from Piddle Valley CE First School.
To everyone leaving Wessex Multi-Academy Trust this summer, thank you for your dedication, commitment and the lasting difference you have made to the lives of our pupils, colleagues and communities. We wish you every success and happiness for the future.
