Tribute to Mr Hester

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Mr Eric Hester, former Headmaster of St Ambrose College, passed away on 9 December 2025.

Mr Hester served as Headmaster of St Ambrose College from 1991 to 1999 and holds a unique place in the history of the school as the first lay Headmaster in its long and distinguished tradition. Prior to his appointment at St Ambrose, Mr Hester dedicated his life to Catholic education, teaching in two boys’ Catholic grammar schools and serving as Headteacher of St Joseph’s R.C. High School, where his leadership and commitment left a lasting legacy.

An English teacher by background, Mr Hester placed great emphasis on the importance of reading widely and fostering a love of learning. He also taught General Religious Education to the Sixth Form, preparing pupils not only academically but for life beyond St Ambrose, encouraging them to reflect deeply on faith, values and their place in the world.

During his time at St Ambrose College, Mr Hester brought vision, courage and deep faith to his role. He strengthened the pastoral life of the school by introducing a Heads of Year system, working closely with his deputies, Sean Fleming, Philip Howard and Matthew Arthur, to ensure that the care of pupils remained central to school life. He was ably supported throughout his headship by the late Mrs Sheila Ball, whom he once described as “a secretary of the greatest integrity and loyalty, who possessed that most uncommon virtue – common sense.”

Mr Hester was a strong advocate for academic breadth and tradition, and he also championed extra-curricular activities, laying strong foundations that continue to enrich school life today. Central to his philosophy was a deep understanding of the importance of family. He firmly believed in the partnership between school and home, recognising that close cooperation with families enabled pupils to achieve the very best outcomes.

Deeply committed to the wider Ambrosian community, Mr Hester was surprised to learn that the College did not yet have an Old Boys’ Association and ensured that one was established, strengthening lifelong connections with the school. The St Ambrose Old Boys’ Association became an integral part of his wider vision of family and community. He was also the first Headmaster to have a son educated at St Ambrose College, with his youngest son attending the school, and the first Headmaster to be married. His wife, Katherine, was a familiar and welcome presence at school events and functions.

At the time of his appointment, the role of Headmaster also included responsibility for the Preparatory School. Mr Michael Lochery was appointed as Head of the Prep School, and Mr Hester spoke fondly of the joyful and supportive relationship they shared.

A man of great integrity, Mr Hester always felt deeply privileged to be in a position to help build a small part of the Kingdom of God through the education of the boys of St Ambrose College. The school we are today continues to build on the many foundations he helped to establish through his leadership, faith and dedication to young people.

St Ambrose College is proud to have been led by Mr Eric Hester. We remember him with gratitude and respect, and we keep his wife Katherine, their four children and their families in our prayers.

May he rest in peace.