Roger Howard: From Boarder to Mentor

March 21, 2025 · 47 min

In this episode, Roger Howard (71-78, st82-) reflects on his school days, recounting memorable Rugby Tours and his time working at The Grove.

Roger also shares his deep passion for the importance of giving back, highlighting the various ways Old Grovians can support the school. From offering career insight talks to making financial contributions through the Woodhouse Grove School Foundation, Roger emphasises the meaningful opportunities to help drive the school’s continued growth and success.

At the age of 11, Roger arrived at The Grove as a boarder in 1971, where he stayed until 1978.

In 1982, Roger kicked off his career at Woodhouse Grove as an assistant teacher, supporting a rugby programme while teaching various subjects at both The Grove and Brontë House. He also served as a resident boarding tutor in Vinter House and took on the role of Form Teacher. Over the years, Roger's influence grew as he took on key roles, including Housemaster and Director of Sport and PE, later expanding to Director of Sport, PE & Partnerships. His leadership saw the department flourish, with enhanced facilities and valuable partnerships with local organisations such as Bradford City and Bradford Bulls.

Roger’s passion for rugby was evident at every level - district, county and national. He served as Head Coach for Yorkshire U16, North of England U16 and U18 and contributed to the development of England's U18 squad as part of a coaching panel.

For two years, Roger also worked as a coaching consultant to help establish the Leeds Tykes professional academy (now Yorkshire Academy). In 2019, he was recognised with the prestigious ERFSU Service to Schools Rugby Award by England Rugby.

Even after stepping down as Director of Sport in 2017, Roger stayed active, continuing to coach rugby. He later embraced a new challenge as Director of the Woodhouse Grove Foundation, a role that concluded with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, Roger remains a part-time rugby coach, still shaping the future of the school's senior programme.

Tune in and enjoy this episode! We’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to reach out and share your feedback.

Your Host: Eve Corry, Development Officer at Woodhouse Grove (st24-)

Studio Technician: Jay Sunley at Woodhouse Grove (st23-)

Music: Paul Corry