Remembering Mrs Bailly

It is with enormous sadness that we announce the death of Bronia Bailly: teacher, colleague and friend. Bronia worked at Polam for her entire teaching career, beginning work with us as a newly qualified teacher in 1990. She was passionate in her love for English literature, for theatre, poetry and for encouraging those she taught to be creative in their thinking and writing. She passed this love of her subject on to countless children and young people, many of whom went onto study English beyond Polam.  

In her 36 years at Polam Bronia saw much change. She often questioned these changes as a critical friend, but also embraced them all. She always looked forwards and always found solutions to the challenges that teaching presents. In her career, Bronia took on the role as Polam’s Head of Drama, directing school productions that became legendary, before leading the English Department, using her curriculum knowledge to enthuse students with a love for literature. She was also a skilled pastoral practitioner, taking on the role of Head of Year 11 later in her career. Her guidance and support helped many students navigate the challenges of teenage friendships, examinations, future pathways and more. Her wisdom and experience also shaped the teaching careers of younger colleagues. In a very genuine way, Bronia embodied the Polam mission of Concordia Crescimus, supporting our community to grow in harmony.  

Bronia will be hugely missed by all of us at Polam. We are shocked and saddened by the death of a colleague and friend and we offer our sympathy and support to Patrick, Caitlin and Christian. We have opened a book of condolence in the school reception if any members of our Polam family, past and present, would like to contribute.