Talented mathematicians at a Garston school will soon receive an award, named in memory of a teacher who died last year.

Edith Rooney, 59, taught Maths at Parmiter's School, in High Elms Lane, since 1990 and became the school's Second Mistress.

After a short illness, however, she passed away on December 20. But during a celebration of her life, held on Tuesday, it was revealed the highly respected teacher will be remembered when a annual school prize is handed out in her name.

The Edith Rooney Mathematics Scholarship will be awarded to students who read the subject at university. An outdoor seating area and garden will also be dedicated to her memory.

Mrs Rooney, described as a "first rate academic", scored a First Class Honours degree in chemistry from Manchester University and was appointed as a Maths teacher at Parmiter's in 1990.

Within a short time she was promoted to a role as Head of Year and later, to the senior management team as Senior Mistress.

Her speciality was assessment and value-added data, which allowed parents and teachers to identify pupils' potential, track their progress and enhance their prospects.

During the remembrance service, contributions were heard from headmaster Brian Coulshed, chairman of governors Jackie Glossop, former student Ben Higginson, school captain Jasmin Hodgson, deputy headmistress Linda Billingham, and Christopher Brian, the eldest of Mrs Rooney's three sons.

Mr Higginson, who was taught by Mrs Rooney and who later studied Mathematics at university, said the subject was a passion for his former teacher.

He said: "In the classroom, any question that you could think of to fire at Mrs Rooney during a lesson, no matter how obscure, would always be answered without hesitation.

"A passion for your subject gets translated to your pupils, and Mrs Rooney had this passion in abundance.

"I remember with a smile the amount of enthusiasm she showed - an excitement for Mathematics I believe passed on to many of her students.

"Seeing so many people here this evening shows how many people will remember her fondly for the sheer talent that Edith possessed as a teacher."

Mrs Billingham said Mrs Rooney was a "much loved and highly respected member of the Parmiter's family".

She said: "She made a deep and lasting impression on Parmiter's and all who came into contact with her.

"She was immensely proud to be part of this community. To me, Edith was a wonderful friend, a great support and a trusted confidante. The Parmiter's family mourn her loss - we will miss her always."

Mr Coulshed added: "Edith Rooney was a beautiful person and a talented and loyal member of Parmiter's, where she will be remembered with much gratitude and affection in the years to come."

Edith leaves husband Brendon, and sons Chris, Matthew and Andrew.

  • Share your fond memories of Edith Rooney by clicking the comment link below.