It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Michael Downward, former Headmaster of West Buckland School, who died on Sunday 4th May, just short of his 84th birthday. Michael led the school from 1979 to 1997, overseeing a period of profound transformation and leaving a legacy that continues to shape the school today.

Educated at Epsom College as a Scholar, Michael went on to win an Open Scholarship to Clare College, Cambridge, where he read Classics and earned a Master’s degree. He completed his PGCE at the University of Bristol, undertaking his teaching practice at Malvern College. He began his teaching career at Beeston Hall School in Norfolk, then moved to Loughborough Grammar School, where he served as Head of Classics and a Boarding Housemaster for seven years. His early career already reflected his wide-ranging interests: he was a Scout Leader, CCF Army Section Commander, Press and Publicity Officer, and an enthusiastic participant in music, drama, cricket and squash.

Succeeding the Rev. George Ridding, Michael arrived at West Buckland School in January 1979. His headship was characterised by academic advancement, growing pupil numbers, and renewed financial stability. Under his visionary leadership, and with the support of the Governing Body, the school experienced substantial growth - not only in its physical infrastructure but also in the strength of its academic provision, pastoral care, and sense of community. He led the school into a new era, restoring its HMC status in 1984 and securing its position among the South West’s leading independent schools.

A pivotal moment during his tenure was the transition to full co-education. Following the closure of The Marist Convent in Barnstaple, Michael welcomed the first cohort of girls, guiding the school through this cultural shift with characteristic thoughtfulness. He recognised the importance of a diverse staff and actively recruited female teachers, ensuring that the academic and pastoral environment evolved to support all pupils. His leadership during this period was instrumental in creating a fully inclusive and forward-looking school community.

Renowned for his clarity of thought and depth of intellect, Michael was a forward-thinking Headmaster who set high standards and led by example. He was deeply committed to every member of the school community - pupils, staff, parents, alumni and governors alike - and always sought to bring out the best in others. His leadership was marked by empathy, fairness, and a steadfast sense of duty. Despite the demands of his role, he remained humble and approachable, never standing on ceremony or dismissing any task as beneath his attention.

Michael took a close interest in every aspect of school life. He served as an officer in the CCF, supported the school chaplain in worship, regularly attended services at East Buckland Church, and threw himself - often quite literally - into staff pantomimes and school fetes. His Monday morning assemblies were thoughtful and inspiring, reflecting the deep Christian faith that underpinned his care for the school and its people.

Though a scholar at heart, Michael was a loyal supporter of the school’s sporting life. Under his leadership, sport at West Buckland flourished. He understood the importance of physical activity in a well-rounded education and was often seen cheering pupils on from the sidelines, whatever the weather. His appreciation for the discipline, teamwork and camaraderie that sport fostered helped cultivate a strong sporting tradition that endured well beyond his time as Headmaster.

Michael’s tenure also had its lighter moments, many of them thanks to his beloved yellow Labrador, Daisy - the first dog he owned and a spirited companion during his headship. Daisy quickly became a familiar figure around campus, known for her mischief and charm. So closely were the pair associated that pupils affectionately nicknamed Michael “Daisy” as well. This fondness was immortalised in the school’s annual Glee revue, where one memorable sketch featured a pupil donning Mr Downward’s trademark anorak and leading Daisy across the stage - much to the delight of the audience. It was a testament to Michael’s good humour and the deep affection in which he was held by the school community.

After retiring in 1997, Michael’s commitment to public service remained undiminished. He became a magistrate, a governor of Plymouth College and St John’s School, Sidmouth, a Trustee and Chairman of the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple, and a supporter of youth music through Dartington’s Young Musicians Support Group. He represented the HMC on Admiralty Interview Board panels and served as an Independent Schools Council regional co-ordinator, travelling extensively to university appointments fairs. He also travelled the length and breadth of the country on behalf of the University of Buckingham, visiting schools to observe and assess newly qualified teachers of Classics, offering both encouragement and the benefit of his professional insight.

In 2011, Michael returned to serve as a Trustee of the West Buckland School Foundation. As Chair of the Bursary Committee, he brought his vast educational experience to the fore in identifying and supporting recipients of fully funded, transformational bursaries. His ability to read between the lines of school reports - honed through decades of writing them - gave him rare insight into the true potential of applicants. He was respected not only for his wisdom, but for the compassion and care he brought to every decision.

Michael’s exceptional service to education and to his community was matched by the personal qualities that defined him. He was a man of warmth, humility, and deep conviction, whose generous spirit and shrewd counsel earned the respect and affection of all who knew him. He was supported throughout by his wife, Pat, whose kindness, humour and legendary hospitality were deeply appreciated by the school community and beyond.

West Buckland School was fortunate indeed to have had such a gifted and dedicated Headmaster at the helm for 18 years. Michael Downward leaves a legacy of excellence, compassion, and visionary leadership. He will be deeply missed.