| Speaker biography | For several years she was a member of the RSA Council and the National Council for Educational Technology, and on the Board of the Teacher Training Agency. In 1995 St George’s Roman Catholic Secondary School in Maida Vale became notorious when its Headmaster, Philip Lawrence, was murdered just outside the school gates. After the tragedy, standards plummeted as the school spiralled further into chaos and was placed on ‘Special Measures’ by Ofsted. In March 2000 it was facing permanent closure when Marie Stubbs was persuaded out of retirement to lead the task force given just four terms to turn the school around. In her book AHEAD OF THE CLASS (£14.99 hardback, John Murray) Marie Stubbs’ absorbing day-to-day account of how the task force brought about dramatic change at St George’s. In little over a year, the combined effort of staff, students and parents transformed it, from a failing institution that had been written off, into a well-run, effective school that Ofsted praised as a national example of good practice. In order to improve things, the task force had to revolutionise attitudes at the school. After shaking hands with every pupil personally, Marie Stubbs set out her expectations of courtesy, consideration and appearance. Children started to arrive on time and in school uniform. They walked rather than ran, and no longer chewed gum. Teachers and parents monitored the corridors showing zero tolerance of anyone infringing the new rules. At the same time, Lady Stubbs worked quickly to create an environment in which the children felt valued. School buildings were rejuvenated, playground facilities improved, and breakfast and after-school clubs arranged. She introduced a grand Leaver’s Ball for Year 11 students at a top London hotel, persuaded Harrow Public School to let St George’s use their rugby pitches and invited influential role models such as Kevin Keegan, Ralph Fiennes, Cherie Booth QC, and Lenny Henry to come and talk to her students. Now Marie is nationally known following the acclaimed TV film of the book starring Julie Walters as Marie. The drama attracted over 10 million viewers when it was broadcast in January 2005. Today Marie divides her time between London and Banbury. She has three grown-up daughters and six grandchildren. She has been married to Sir William Stubbs, formerly Head of the QCA, for 40 years.
Awards include:- Dame of St Gregory, a Papal Honour, Honorary Doctorate from De Montfort University, Catholic Woman of the Year 2002 Nominated as Scotswoman of the Year in 2005 Member of the governing body of De Montfort University
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