A farewell to Mr Jordan, after an outstanding 29 years at The Oratory School
Saturday's Speech Day and Prize Giving marked the end of an era as we said farewell to Oratory legend, Mr Ian Jordan, after an outstanding 29-year contribution to The Oratory School.
During the annual end-of-academic year ceremony, Ian delivered a valedictory speech which reflected on his 12 years as Oratory Head of PE and Games (1996-2008), 14 years as FitzAlan Housemaster (2008-2022) and his final 3 years as a Teacher of Maths, PE and Games (2022-2025).
In his role as Oratory Head of PE and Games, Ian coached a plethora of top sporting talent, which included professional cricketers Benny Howell, Henley’s Michael Roberts and Dan Housego; England rugby ace Danny Cipriani, and Republic of Ireland international footballer Alex Pearce. In 2007, these coaching achievements were acknowledged with The Oratory being awarded 'Independent School of the Year for Sport' by The Telegraph. which recognised the school's inclusive 'sport for all' approach and the exceptionally high quota of representation at national level across various sports with a school of just 400 pupils - an ethos and characteristic still true of the school today, nearly two decades on.
As FitzAlan Housemaster, Ian was known for his kindness and for keeping a warm, friendly and sociable house - with many a pupil enjoying a 'feast in Fitz' during his tenure!
To celebrate Ian's remarkable career at The Oratory, a 1st XI Cricket match vs Old Oratorians (aka Ian Jordan's XI!) took place on Friday evening (full match report can be read here), which was followed by a hog roast and drinks. Many thanks to the 150 people who came along to give Ian a great send-off! Thank you Ian, from us all here at The Oratory School.
Cor ad Cor Loquitur