PUBLISHED 15 July 2022
Referred to as a 'legend' by her colleagues, Andrea arrived in 1996 as Director of Girls' PE, yet the titles did not, and still do not do her justice. She has never been just a job description – Andrea is a fantastic sportswoman in her own right representing Greater Manchester at U14, 16 and 18 level at hockey, and then England U21s.
Yet we have to delve very hard to find out about her achievements, such is her focus on putting all her efforts into other people and making them the best that they can be. She was building ‘growth mindsets’ before the phrase entered common parlance. She has taken girls from novices at eleven and turned them into regional conquerors and national champions. Because she said they could do it, and they believed her, and they did do it.
Generations of her 'girls' wrote tributes in a beautiful book which was presented to commemorate her time at the school and impact on the young people she taught, coached, supported and inspired. Andrea’s dedication and motivational skills are second to none. Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration, and its no exaggeration to say that Andrea has dedicated her life to Arnold and AKS Sport.
You will be missed Andrea; we wish you all the best for the next stage in your career and look forward to welcoming you back onto the touchline at AKS as our guest!