She joined WBS in 2001 as a teacher of Biology, sixth form tutor and member of Grenville House. Her cheery disposition and easy Irish charm instantly made her a popular and valued member of staff. Her teaching qualities were quickly recognised, and she was promoted in 2004 to become Head of Fortescue – a position she fulfilled with great passion and enthusiasm for 9 years.

In 2013, she was appointed to the Senior Management Team and two years later, became  Chaplaincy Team Leader, organising the Memorial Service and Rogation Service. These were amongst her many contributions to school and East and West Buckland Parish.

Elma will be remembered fondly by the whole school community and we are delighted that she will staying locally and look forward to welcoming her at WBS.

“Ms. Rushe was an absolutely incredible teacher. I think she is one of the true contributing factors to me choosing a science based career. She taught with such enthusiasm for Biology and had a huge amount of respect from every single pupil. 
Alongside teaching the curriculum I believe that she really encouraged me to be a more confident individual and to strive for my ambitions.
She was the heart of the Biology department at WBS and there is no doubt she will be missed by both pupils and teachers.”

Rachel Groome (05-14C)

“I have been very fortunate to have known Elma in two capacities, having been taught by her and now working with her.  Elma is without doubt a truly inspirational teacher but most of all one of the world’s truly kindest and loving ladies you will ever meet.

When I returned to West Buckland for my interview after many years of being a student here, I welled up when I saw her. I will never forget what she did for me on an eventful skiing trip where I decided to hurt my leg up a mountain! She looked after me and made sure I still had a lovely trip away .

I will always remember the giggle we had trying to translate what the French doctors at the x-ray department were saying!

Thank you Elma for being so wonderful !”

Holly Meredith (99-04F)