A dedication event was held on 2nd July at Brine Leas School in memory of Dave Cole, Headteacher at the school who died so unexpectedly in April 2024. The event involved dedicating the BL6 (6th form building) to Mr Cole, as he was instrumental in establishing post 16 provision at Brine Leas. A plaque in the entrance to the building was unveiled by his wife Nicola and sons James and Edward. Current and previous members of staff and governors, who worked with Dave, were in attendance and Mr Whitehead, Headteacher at Brine Leas and Mr Middlebrook, CEO of The Cornovii Trust, both spoke about Dave’s contribution to, impact upon and legacy at the school and the BL6 building and post 16 provision in particular.
Mr Whitehead said “Dave worked at Brine Leas for 24 years, in a variety of roles, culminating in the position of Headteacher. His positive impact upon this school and thousands of young people is remarkable. He was a pleasure to work with and he is still greatly missed by everyone here at school.”
Mr Middlebrook echoed those sentiments, “Dave’s legacy at Brine Leas is enormous, especially with BL6. It is for these reasons that we and the family thought having a permanent, physical link between Dave and this building was a fitting tribute to him.”
In addition, Mr Whitehead announced that the school will be introducing and annual award in Mr Cole’s memory for a 6th form student, the ‘Dave Cole Award for Innovation’. A fitting tribute to a great Headteacher, school leader but more importantly a lovely man, who is missed by everyone.
