Pippa Gamester, served as Matron, Housemistress, Deputy Finance Manager, and Curriculum Support Team Manager over a career spanning 40 years at RGS.

In this time, she witnessed great changes in education, academia and boarding. One thing remained unchanged, the pupils who came through our gates would have seen her recognition of the history of the school and its outstanding ethos. Her professionalism, humour, warmth and the imagination she brought to the task of creating a sense of community and common purpose for 120 terms is unique.

Her future husband, Steve Gamester arrived at RGS as a single man in 1973, fully committed to furthering his sporting career. He joined Wycombe Rugby Club and was quickly elected as Captain of the 1st XV and selected to play for the County side. Steve’s interest in boarding was evident as he served as a boarding tutor in Uplyme supporting the Housemaster, Derek Stubbs. We are sure that, at this time, he did not expect to spend 25 years as Housemaster.

It was during his tutorship that Steve became reacquainted with Pippa. Apparently, they had briefly met while Steve was in Loughborough and he offered some coaching in Archery. The rest, as they say is history, and we know that Steve and Pippa have had great pride in watching their sons proceed through RGS onto university and beyond.

Pippa, who had to be interviewed as the wife of the Housemaster, became unpaid matron, doing regular duties, looking after sick boys (to earn her board and lodging!). Many a boarder will remember her in nightdress and wellies sorting out the inevitable problems that arose from either or both the boarders and the building.

In 2001, Pip joined the staff of RGS for the second time (now paid!), initially to run the admin side of the Maintenance Department. Her talents were easily recognised and she soon became the Deputy Finance Manager.

Some of Pippa’s career choices were driven by external factors, whether marriage, children or friendships: it was following the tragic and untimely death of Judy de Gelas, who had served at RGS for 19 years, that Pippa valiantly stepped up to the role and that of Curriculum Support Team Manager quickly becoming The ‘Queen’ of SIMS.

Pippa’s 40 years of service to the School is typical of the woman and her belief and passion in nurturing the opportunities for so many RGS pupils.