​TRIBUTES have been paid to a “magnificent and courageous” Brockhill teacher, who lost his battle with cancer last week.

Assistant principal Peter Catmull, from Dymchurch, died last Tuesday , February 23 after a “long and bravely fought” illness.

The 63-year-old, who taught drama, had worked at the performing arts college for 37 years.

Senior vice principal Charles Joseph said: “Peter was an absolutely outstanding teacher.

“He was an inspirational man and an absolute treasure to work with.

“It’s a huge loss to all those lucky enough to have anything to do with him.”

Mr Catmull worked throughout his illness, teaching until the last week before February’s half term.

Mr Joseph said: “It is testament to Peter’s courage that he continued to work for so long.

“He remained totally committed and focused upon the success of his year 13 students who were presenting their drama A level practical examination.

“As ever, with Peter’s guidance they performed splendidly.”

Mr Catmull’s family is planning a quiet, private funeral but his contribution to the school will be marked with an appropriate, permanent memorial.

Mr Joseph said: “Brockhill is working as normally as it can through this difficult time and reflecting quietly on how best to celebrate Peter’s life and magnificent contribution to education.

“We will hold a celebration of his life later in the year but we wanted to allow his family the privacy of the funeral first.

“This is a great loss to the wider community as well as the school because he did so much here.

“He touched the lives of and was loved by so many people – he was a lovely, lovely man.”