St Leonard's

Austin Flynn was an English teacher at St Leonard’s from 1963 to 1971.

Each year students at St Leonard’s are awarded Austin Flynn prizes by the school for a variety of achievements. Austin Flynn was an English teacher at St Leonard’s from 1963 to 1971.

Whilst he was here he taught a pupil called John McArdle who was in the B stream and due to leave school at 16 years of age. Despite an average academic record there was promise that Austin Flynn spotted in his young student so he organised a job interview for John with a local firm of Solicitors and enrolled John on an A level course at a local college by way of further education.

John went on to qualify as a Solicitor and set up his own law firm when he was 25, as well as setting up a number of other businesses. John never forgot Austin Flynn or the huge part he played in his career.

As a show of gratitude, John sponsors the Austin Flynn prize-giving in the name of his inspirational teacher.

Whether or not you receive a prize, the important point to remember is the chance you have to inspire someone else or be inspired yourself to reach your potential. The only hurdles are those we impose upon ourselves. Anything is possible. Do not let fear of failure prevent you from trying to succeed.

St Leonard’s Comprehensive School, Staff Photo 1971

Austin is pictured on the back row, fourth from the left.