Goodbye Garv

20 June 2015Toby CH, Privett ‘15

After a man teaches at one institution for over 40 years, he has gained the intrinsic right to be old and grumpy. Mr. John Garvey is anything but that. Perhaps it was his limited London diet of cheese on toast in the early years of of his life that gave him his unfailing grit and effort complemented by his passion for the forever-lucky Chelsea that make him what he is today, but, unanimously, in students’ eyes, he is not only a personable and funny character, but also an iconic member of staff. No members of staff can boast having done more for Brentwood as a teacher, coach and Assistant Head of School. Although I have been privileged to attend this school for four years (an infinitesimal period when compared to that of Mr. Garvey’s 44) a myriad of things – be they events, sports teams, or classes – have been enlivened by this historic man. Many students have had their first acquaintance with Mr. Garvey during the first week of school as for countless years he has been the advocate and organizer of Brentwood’s Terry Fox Run. Immediately, the school is introduced to a phenomenal and enticing speaker, one sincere conviction, and a born comedian. Whether it be a prepared speech at assembly or to a graduating class, or simply a quick quip as he passes a student in the hallway, his wit remains comically sharp. This humour is refreshing and youthful, much like his personality. Having said this, I have fallen under his ironic wit when missing the net on his Senior boys’ soccer team. I’m sorry, but we can’t all be Didier Drogba! I did have the pleasure of being coached by Mr. Garvey and I attribute my improved attentiveness to hitting the net to him, and, more importantly, the genuinely fun times the squad had with him at the coaching helm. Without Mr. Garvey, the school will not be what it used to be. Let me present an analogy. Without Mr. Garvey, the shoes of Brentwood College will have lost their laces. Sure, we’ll keep functioning, but that key thing that held us together will be gone, and even if we buy replacements, they’ll never fit quite as nicely as those old ones. Mr. Garvey will unquestionably be a lasting and happy memory for Brentwood; we will not forget him. He will retire from this school at the end of next week, but not from our thoughts. Brentwood wishes him better than the best.? Toby CH, Privett ‘15

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