After more than 20 years at Dame Allan’s Schools, French teacher Claude Cedeyn has retired, bringing to a close a career defined by her passion for languages and the relationships she built with generations of pupils.
Originally from northern France, Claude first came to England while studying English Language and Literature at the University of Picardy in Amiens. Her course included a year working in England as a French language assistant, but what was intended to be a temporary stay soon became permanent.
“I initially wanted to spend a bit more time learning English because I felt one year wasn’t quite enough,” she said. “But I loved it. I love Newcastle. It’s friendly.”
After teaching French in adult education and schools across the North East, Claude joined Dame Allan’s in September 2005 as a French assistant. She later became a French teacher, taking on increasing responsibility within the department.
Although fewer young people have been choosing languages nationally in recent years, Claude’s belief in their value has never changed.
“I always tell pupils here that it doesn’t matter whether they choose French, German or Spanish – they’re doing a language, and that’s what’s important,” she said.
“It’s the world it opens to you – travelling, books, films and different cultures. I love seeing how languages work and the connections between them. There is nothing you can learn that’s quite like languages. It’s hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Looking back on more than two decades at Dame Allan’s, Claude says it’s the pupils and colleagues who have made her time at the school so special.
“I’ve stayed a long time because I absolutely love the kids,” she said. “I’ve taught pupils who were so hardworking and genuinely interested in learning French and learning about French culture, and that’s been really rewarding.
“I’ve also worked alongside some really brilliant linguists who are so full of enthusiasm. I’ve been very lucky. I’ll miss the relationships with my students and the social interaction with my colleagues.”
Claude said retirement will give her more time to enjoy gardening, patchwork quilting and travelling back to France to visit family. She is also planning to take up rollerblading again, continue teaching through private tuition and explore volunteering opportunities.